everything {in} between: meeting god in the midst of extremes

If you have been reading, watching, or scrolling the news lately, it seems like there is a great divide between people. Between people, there is a vast difference between politics, ideologies, religion, culture, and views of the world. This divide has entered the workplaces, schools, coffee shops, families, and pews. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus often points out the extremes he sees among the Jews and Gentiles like the Samaritans and the Romans. He points them out to offer another way. A way that acknowledges the complexities of life and provides a path that leads to healing, understanding, and life; not hate, separation, or death. In Jesus, we expect an either/or regarding faith. Instead, he offers a both/and acknowledging the deep complexities and showing mercy. How can we learn to do the same? Each week we will approach the Gospel of Luke story beginning on Ash Wednesday with "Everything in Between Intention & Action." In the following weeks, we will approach the Lukan narrative and discuss: Everything in Between Stranger & Neighbor, Faith & Works, Rest & Growth, Lost & Found, Righteousness & Mercy, Shouting & Silence, and Grief & Hope.

For young families, a family devotional will be provided March 2nd during Kids' Church. The devotional is called "Bread of Life" by illustrated ministry. This is a weekly devotional for families to gather around the table. If your family enjoyed lighting the Advent candles each week, they will enjoy this devotional that helps you create a centerpiece as you journey through Lent.

Wednesday Morning Bible Study will be studying Amy-Jill Levine's book Witness at the Cross during Lent. "Amy-Jill Levine shows how the people at the cross each have distinct roles to play. Each Evangelist presents a distinct picture of the death of Jesus. Each portrays different individuals and groups of people at the cross, each offers different images and dialogues, and so from each, we learn how those meanings and messages cross the centuries to any who would come to the cross today. This six-week study will look at: Mary his mother; the Beloved Disciple from the Gospel of John; Mary Magdalene and the other women from Galilee; the two men, usually identified as thieves, crucified with Jesus; the centurion and the soldiers; Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus. Jews and Romans, friends and strangers, the powerful and the powerless, the hopeful and the despairing." If you want a copy of this book, contact Pastor Britney by March 5th. Cost: $15