November 12th Virtual Worship
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty, Dwight Huntley, Jenna Crafts
Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Technology Team: Michael Kendall, Mark Raker, Jerry Weissinger
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Tending God’s Light
“Then the kingdom of heaven will be like this. Ten bridesmaids took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. When the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them; but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. As the bridegroom was delayed, all of them became drowsy and slept. But at midnight there was a shout, ‘Look! Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.’ Then all those bridesmaids got up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise replied, ‘No! there will not be enough for you and for us; you had better go to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.’ And while they went to buy it, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went with him into the wedding banquet; and the door was shut. Later the other bridesmaids came also, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open to us.’ But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I do not know you.’ Keep awake therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.”
[Reading above - Matthew 25:1-13]
Mathew chapter 25 concludes the teachings of Jesus just two days prior to his last supper, arrest and crucifixion. This chapter contains three parables; our focus is the first, The Parable of the Ten Bridesmaids. It is important to remember the historical context of this moment in Jesus’ life. He is in Jerusalem for the Passover Festival, celebrating God’s deliverance of God’s people from oppression. The expectations are building that God will send an anointed leader to free Israel from Rome’s occupation. Some among the tens of thousands of pilgrims in Jerusalem for Passover are hoping Jesus is the Messiah who is about to bring liberation and victory to Israel. In this moment of urgent expectation Jesus tells a parable that emphasizes the importance of preparing, waiting, and keeping alert for a Divine moment of fulfillment that no one can predict. Jesus invites us into a life of humble obedience to God and humble service to others that is both hopeful for cosmic reconciliation and marked by daily persevering in the way of grace and peace no mater the circumstances.
Questions for Reflection:
Jesus often told parables and stories to teach and make sense of the life of faith. What parables or stories do you tell that help steady and inspire you?
For thousands of years religious rituals and festivals have added meaning to countless lives. Jesus participated fully in his religious tradition. What religious rituals or celebrations are most helpful to you?
How do you live in the tension of hoping for beter days and living in the current reality?
A Spiritual Practice to Try
Use storytelling to tell of your trust in the hope and help that God provides. Recall a time when God’s help made the difference you needed. Tell your story to someone who needs encouragement. Follow-up with listening and a kind action.
A Practice to Deepening Discipleship
Incorporate a faith journal in your spiritual practice. Use the journal as a way to:
jot down needs and blessings with words or drawings or pictures, respond to the questions for reflection in the sermon notes, make notes about the weekly scripture lessons and sermons, create a to-do list of discipleship actions, list questions you want to explore, write prayers, stories, poems, or letters, be creative!
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com