Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

Grace and peace to you. As Christians, we often reflect upon the manner in which we are to live out our faith. I find a good place to begin such reflection is with Holy Scripture and the counsel of Jesus. In a few short chapters in Mark's Gospel, Jesus in response to questions posed in his direction offers a few statements beginning with "whoever."

"Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all." (Mark 9:35)

"Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes not me but the one who sent me." (Mark 9:37)

"Whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because you bear the name of Christ will by no means lose the reward." (Mark 9:41)

"Whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it." (Mark 10:15)

"Whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be slave of all. (Mark 10:43-44)

These "whoever" statements from Jesus direct the listener to engage in a life of service to and for the "other," service that seeks and acts upon that which will benefit the" other," for such actions will be in accord with God's will and hope for us. These "whoever" statements direct us away from those thoughts and actions that would be self-serving and to the neglect of the needs of the "other." These "whoever" statements help us to see that our Christian faith is much more than a pursuit of individual salvation; rather, it is a guide to see the world and each other from the perspective of God that desires wholeness and holiness to be received and participated throughout all of creation, that what is good and beneficial is for all to experience. 

Jesus wants our eyes and ears to be open to the needs and concerns that surround us, and to be responsive in ways that bring healing and hope. Such healing and hope begins with things as ordinary as offering a drink to one who is thirsty, to welcome another in Jesus' name, and to bear the concerns of those most vulnerable to the devastating effects of sin. In short, to be in those situations whereby we can love as Jesus loves.

Help make it a good day for all as we share the good news of Jesus.    Pastor John