Greetings to all!
As I have thought about the events of the past week, particularly the events
in Colorado, one word that keeps coming back to my awareness is "forgiveness."
What can it possibly mean to forgive in the context of such horror? Persons
responsible for violence must certainly be held accountable for their actions.
Nonetheless, I am guided and challenged both by Jesus who forgave his
executioners, and also by the members of the Amish community who found a way
to forgive in response to a horrible act of violence against their community (2006).
So what does forgiveness look like in response to violence (or any other offense)
against an individual, a community, or even a nation?
At the least, I think, forgiveness involves not allowing such violence to shape us,
to embitter us, or to rob us of the good gift which is life; to maintain an openness
toward life and toward our neighbors that is not possible when fear and
vengeance take root in our hearts. Forgiveness, I think, keeps the windows
of our hearts and souls open to the fresh breeze of God's Spirit. May forgiveness
find its place in the lives of those who suffer violence, as well as in the lives of
those who witness it. Peace be with us all.
Mid-Summer Evenings Together
"What Does the Lord Require?"
Wednesday, July 25
6:00pm - 7:30pm
Each evening includes:
-fellowship meal
-Bible study and activities for adults & children (nursery for young children)
-service of Evening Prayer
Our study focus this evening will be "to walk humbly."
This evening's (July 25) meal will feature summer picnic fare. Sandwiches
and beverage will be provided. Bring a picnic style side or dessert. Feel free
to keep it simple.
*****
"Take Me Out to the Ballgame!" - Join your fellow Walnut Hill friends for an
evening of baseball on Friday, July 27, as the Lexington Legends take on the
Hagerstown Suns. First pitch is 7:05pm. Tickets are $7. Use reply email to place
your ticket order. Five tickets remain available.
*****
Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, July 29, 10am. Sunday
Conversations include a wide variety of topics. Come enjoy a cup of coffee,
join the conversation, or just listen in.
*****
The Vestry will meet this Sunday, July 29, 9:30am, in the upstairs office of
Trinity Hall.
*****
Sunday School for children is ongoing throughout the summer each Sunday
during the 11am hour. Be sure to include Sunday School as part of your
children's summer activities.
*****
Peace to all.
Mike Ward
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