Greetings to all!
A large church here in Lexington recently hosted a lecture on the life of
Dietrich Bonhoeffer. A "standing room only" crowd turned out to hear the
presentation, an indication of the ongoing interest in this German pastor,
theologian, and Nazi resister. Indeed, there is much to be learned from
reflection on Bonhoeffer's life, thought, and actions. Consider these
passages from two of his letters...
(to his brother, Karl, 1935)
I think I am right in saying that I would only achieve true inner clarity and
sincerity by really starting to take the Sermon on the Mount seriously. This
is the only source of strength that can blow all this nonsense sky-high. The
restoration of the church will surely come from...a life of adherence to the
Sermon on the Mount in imitation of Christ. I believe the time has come to
rally people together for this.
(to his friend, Eberhard Bethge, 1944)
I discovered later, and am still discovering right up to this moment, that
it is only by living completely in this world that one learns to have faith.
By this-worldliness I mean living unreservedly in life's duties, problems,
successes, failures. In so doing we throw ourselves completely into the
arms of God, taking seriously not only our own suffering, but those of
God in the world. That, I think, is faith.
The scripture lessons for Sunday, February 5...
Isaiah 40:21-31
1 Corinthians 9:16-23
Mark 1:29-39
Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, February 5, 10am, in
Trinity Hall. The focus for this Sunday's Conversation will be the life
and times of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Come enjoy a cup of coffee, join the
conversation, or just listen in.
"SOUPER" BOWL SUNDAY is this Sunday, February 5, immediately
after morning worship. You will have opportunity to enjoy some delicious
soup and make a donation in support of God's Pantry. We are still
welcoming a few more "soup chefs" who would like to offer their culinary
creations to this good cause. Use reply email if you would like to bring
some soup on Sunday.
RENEW NEWS!!
*RENEW "Call to Prayer" - Set aside a few minutes daily to pray for
the congregation and your self. Your prayers might include the "Renew
Prayer", your own prayers, reflection on Sunday's Scripture lessons
(see above), silence, etc... Use your imagination!
*The Renew "Tree" has been "planted" in the Sanctuary foyer. Add
your "leaf" to the Renew Tree as a symbol of your commitment to pray for
the program's success. See the tree for more details.
*Renew Small Group registration is underway and continues through
mid-February. Registration cards are available in the Sanctuary,
or you may request one by reply email.
*Renew officially begins on Sunday, February 19. Be part of it, and
experience the "renewal!"
In the community: The Episcopal Diocese of Lexington will hold its
116th Annual Convention, February 17 -18, in Lexington. Walnut Hill
is invited to send observers to the Convention. Use reply email, or
contact Mike Ward, if you would like to attend all, or part, of this year's
Diocese Annual Convention.
Peace to all.
Mike Ward
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