From the Pastor-June 2010 Summer Comes Again!
In the midst of winter we long for the summer to come, and now that it has, it is time to enjoy it. Picnics, swimming, long walks, vacation, leisure time are all part of the "hazy, lazy days of summer." All of us need time to savor this season, to relax and take delight in the wonder of the creation of God that becomes so apparent during this wonderful time of the year. By all means, take time for yourself, but at the same time, do not lose sight of what is important: all of this has been created by God, and as the crown of his creation, we are entrusted with caring for what He has made.
With that in mind, remember that God is indeed the Creator. As his people, we owe a debt of gratitude for the creation but also for what He has done for us in the life, death and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ. So above all, don't forget our responsibility to worship. In The Small Catechism in the explanation of the Third Commandment, "Remember the Sabbath Day to keep it holy," Martin Luther tells us, " We are to fear and love God so that we do not despise preaching or God's word, but instead keep that word holy and gladly hear and learn it." That implies for all of us, attentiveness to worship where God's word is preached and heard.
During these summer Sundays, remember the church still gathers for worship and the celebration of the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper every Sunday. God expects you to be present to listen to His word and to feast on His Son's Body and Blood. Without your presence, the fellowship of St. Mark's Church is not complete.
In addition to that, God also expects us to assume the responsibility to share with His church the blessings that have been given to us. Summer is usually a time in the church when finances are meager and paying bills is difficult. I encourage you to regularly remember the ministry and mission of St. Mark's Church that continues the whole year, including the summer months, by taking time to bring or send your offerings to the church. They are especially needed during the summer season.
To all of you, enjoy your summer; God has given this time to us for that purpose, but don't forget God and His church.
Peace in Christ,
Pastor Gould
