Wednesday, May 3, 2017

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, May 3, 2017

Greetings to all!

This Sunday, May 7, the Fourth Sunday of Easter, is known as the "Sunday of the 
Good Shepherd," observed by a traditional Gospel reading from John 10, as well 
as the use of Psalm 23 in worship. The image of God (or Jesus) being our "shepherd" 
must have been very meaningful in a culture where the keeping of flocks was so 
much a part of life and so necessary for survival. That way of life is distant from our 
experience today, and so too the image of the Good Shepherd might have less 
meaning for us.

For me, to think of Jesus (and God) as my Shepherd, or more particularly as "The
Good Shepherd," is to be reminded of God's ultimate interest in my well-being, that 
the One whom I follow always leads me in directions intended for my good, and for 
the good of those around me. I can choose different paths, and even when I do, God 
seeks me out, not by force but by voice, calling me back to a way of being and doing 
that nourish my soul and body. The Good Shepherd is always near by, always attentive, 
always available, no matter what the terrain of any given moment of my life might be.   

The scripture lessons for Sunday, May 7, the Sunday of the Good Shepherd…
Acts 2:42-47
Psalm 23
1 Peter 2:19-25
John 10:1-10ff

Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, May 7, 10am, in Trinity Hall. This
Sunday's conversation will focus on the famine crisis in South Sudan and possible 
responses to it.

Grounds Work Day, Saturday, May 13, 9am - Noon - Make plans now to join us 
at Walnut Hill as we spruce up the grounds for the spring and summer seasons. 
Plenty of tasks (skilled and unskilled) will be available. Watch for more details.

The Spring Potluck is coming on Sun, May 21, immediately after morning worship.  
Bring a salad, side dish, or dessert and join us for this delicious Walnut Hill tradition.

The Walnut Hill Mission Experience is coming June 9 - 11.  We will spend the 
weekend at Camp Burnamwood (Estill Co.) and engage in service in the surrounding 
communities.  All ages (12 yrs and older) are welcome and needed.  Use reply email 
for more information.

Sunday Hospitality - Visit the online sign up sheet for opportunities to host an after 
worship gathering on a Sunday upcoming this spring or summer.  You may also 
volunteer via the traditional sign up sheet in the Sanctuary foyer.  Thanks to all our 
Sunday hosts!

The Nathaniel Mission, one of Walnut Hill's community partners, is hosting a
Summer Camp for children in June and July.  They need some help in the form of 
both supplies and volunteers.  They are also requesting "new" children's books to 
distribute to campers. Donations of supplies/books must be brought to Walnut Hill by 
Sun, May 21.  Use reply email to request a list of needed supplies and/or volunteer 
information.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward
 

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