Bethany’s online service today focuses on emotional well-being and mental health. Rev. Jesse Larson asks an important question: how are you doing?
Today's scripture reading, Matthew 15: 21-28 — The Faith of a Canaanite Woman — reminds how the stigma of mental illness has been with us throughout the ages. Rev. Jesse reports that in July more than half of U.S. adults reported their mental health had been negatively affected due to worry and stress due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet even without pandemics and wildfires, everyday life can be plagued by emotional health concerns. A lesson we can learn from today's bible story is that all people deserve healing. And that we should not be afraid to seek help. Nor should we be defined by our issues. Rev. Jesse suggests several paths toward healing and restoration and reminds us that we are not alone.
During the service, Music Director Dr. May Tuan Tucker presents several hymns, including He Leadeth Me, What a Friend We Have in Jesus and Just a Closer Walk With Thee.
