July 22, 2021
Friends in Faith,
There often feels as though there is so much to do—so much pressing business in our individuals lives and at Bethany to attend to. We can run ourselves ragged attempting to check everything off of our list, and as soon as we take care of one issue, a new one takes its place. Although it can be argued that many of these duties are important, most of us would agree that it is even more important to slow down and be present with one another. Especially when we are facing personal struggles, health concerns, and losses.
Long before the church developed systems of governance and endless committees, believers of Jesus Christ gathered in one another's homes to worship, to pray, to share food together, and to provide for orphans and widows. In these chaotic times, it's important to remember our foundational calling as Christians—to do our best in our own little ways to put more love into the world. Jesus promises abundant life, and he urges us to set aside our worries in order to be free to enjoy life and love one another.
This day and every day, may we continue to take deep breaths, to trust in the mighty presence of the Holy Spirit, to love one another as best we can, to find joy and gratitude in each day, and to hold on to our faith in our omnipotent, all-loving God.
This Sunday's text is from Matthew 10:1-15. The disciples are sent out to heal and cast out demons. We hope to see you then—and you might consider bringing a friend! The option of worshiping from home every Sunday will be continuing on Facebook Live.
PLEASE BE SAFE while at Bethany! There have been several incidents in which staff, church members or guests have felt uneasy or encountered obvious threats from unwanted visitors. The Sacramento Police Department is aware of these issues and asks that we continue to report problems. While we should ask trespassers to leave the site, we also must not put ourselves at physical risk. If you are in immediate danger, stay in a safe location and call 9-1-1. The non-emergency number is (916) 808-5471. Reports can be made online; click here. Please notify the pastor, the office or a member of Session if you experience any issues or if you file a police report. The more that we document these problems, the more traction we gain in preventing future issues. The continued use of a Sunday morning security person will, we hope, cut down on trespassers. Session is also currently seeking bids for a fence —with a clearer barrier, we hope it will become more difficult for unwanted visitors to hang out on our campus.
We are taking a break from our weekly Zoom Check-ins. For the time being, we'll instead enjoy a "Wednesday What's Happening" on the first Wednesday of each month. The first of these will be Wednesday, August 4 at 11 a.m. Join us here!
My e-mail address is pastorjesse@bethpres.com; feel free to contact me via e-mail or phone. I'd love to connect!
Join us in praying for the people of Haiti, Cuba and South Africa who have all been facing unrest and violence … and for all of the victims of the Surfside building collapse in Florida; their families, rescue workers and and those who await the status of loved ones. We also pray for Bethany members and friends who are experiencing illness and recovery from injury … as well as those who continue to reach out to comfort and connect with those in need.
May we trust that God hears all of our prayers, and in Christ, we find healing, wholeness, and new beginnings. Even in the midst of chaotic days and tremendous change, the Spirit of God is presenting us with new opportunities of love each and everyday. No matter what comes our way, all roads lead to Jesus—thanks be to God!
