August 2026
I just sat down in my office to write this month’s cover article, and I get a notification on my phone from Pinterest: “A beautiful life is your calling.” When I click the link, up pops a page full of recipes for dinner for two, café-style coffee, 37 Fast Food Lunches with way more Protein, Amazon products that suggest I just can’t live without them. One article
on the page is very different: “How to Create Your Own Bible Study Notebook”. You can search for anything on Pinterest, and you get pages and pages of different ideas on Bible Studies, Bible Journaling, Recipes, Sewing, Knitting, Crocheting, just about any interest you have can be found on this site. What are you searching for today?

Just think about “A beautiful life is your calling.” For Christians this means that by Faith we are saved by the Grace of God and will live eternally with our Heavenly Father in his Kingdom.

Our first Gospel Lesson for this month begins with Matthew 14:13-21 – Jesus feeding the 5,000 men, besides women and children. The crowd is fed with 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish, and there were leftovers after everyone had eaten. Jesus feeds the crowd at no cost to them. No one was turned away because they couldn’t pay nor were they asked for
any payment. We are very leery if we hear that anything is free. In our society free always comes at a cost. You can add an addition $9.95 and upgrade to the next bigger and better item until before you know it – you’ve spent $100 on that free item.

It’s hard to learn to put our trust in God for our everyday needs – food, clothing, shelter, water. As humans, we tend to take on the responsibility of taking care of these items and not realize that God provided them through farms, streams, forest, and plenty of innovation through the years. Do we thank him enough for all that he has provided for us? We are fed continually through the body and blood of Christ at Communion and reaffirming our faith through the Creeds. God freely sent his only Son to save the World. Do you think we should be a little more grateful and acknowledge that ALL things are provided by Him?

Speaking of trusting and feeding people – We didn’t feed 5,000 men (not including women and children) with our Apple Pies, but we surely fed a couple hundred men, women, and children. We are blessed to be able to continue this yearly tradition on Farmer’s Day with the help of our congregation, family, friends and our community. We always think that we might not have enough pie dough, apples, help in the kitchen or on the street, but God showed up big and we even had a few leftover pies on Sunday morning! Trust the Process – it works!

A BIG thank you to Thrivent that is a major contributor through the Thrivent Action Grants! We couldn’t do this project without them.

A Beautiful Life is Your Calling
Jackie

July 2026
Welcome month of July. Happy Fourth of July on this 250 the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. This is a milestone event for the country and its citizens. A milestone worth celebrating and reflecting on how God: inspired, directed, blessed, guided and continues to be involved with the direction and leadership of this country.

We do not worship the flag or worship this country, but low these many generations, America’s leaders have lifted up a commitment to recognize and seek God’s guidance in the direction of the nation. I refer to words recorded by Ben Franklin in the Continental Congress in the year 1775. Ben Franklin said to the states delegates gathered, “I therefore beg leave to move—That henceforth prayers, imploring the assistance of Heaven and its blessing on our deliberations, be held in this assembly
every morning before we proceed to business; and that one or more of the clergy in this city be requested to officiate in that service.” By this motion, a foundation for prayer was established in meetings of Congress.

Twelve years later, the same Ben Franklin addressed the same body of leaders which is now called the Constitutional Congress of 1787 said, “In the beginning of the contest with Great Britain, when we were sensible of danger, we had daily prayers in this room for divine protection. Our prayers were heard, and they were graciously answered…Have we now forgotten this powerful friend? Or do we no longer need His assistance?

I have lived a long time, and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth: that God governs the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without his notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without His aid?”

Historically speaking, our country’s leaders sought God’s leadership and guidance in their efforts to forge a new style of government. A Democratic Republic where people would be involved in and represented in all actions of the government.

Can you recall any successful actions of our governing leaders?
What do you know of the faith life of these leaders?
Which leaders went to church and shared their faith life with the nation?
How did their faith impact your confidence in their leadership?
Do you feel that God has a role in leading the nation?
Since 1956, the motto of the United States has been the phrase “In God We Trust”
Do we as a nation still trust in Him?

As we celebrate the Semi quincentennial birthday of our nations independence, these topics should be of importance to each member of the church: Leaders turning to God to be led by His Spirit. Our second readings for the summer months will find us reading from the book of Romans, chapter 8. This chapter is focused on the work of the Holy
Spirit. The indwelling of God’s spirit of truth. We will be hearing about our communal life within the Spirit and the Future Glory of living with the Spirit.

God’s Spirit continues to shape and bless the lives of His disciples even today. It is God’s Spirit that will unite us as we make dough balls this month, roll them into pastry circles and fry them to perfection as apple pies. It is God’s Spirit that brings us together for Farmer’s Day activities as church family and China Grove Community members. I
pray we are blessed with favorable weather, many hands united in service and sweet apple pies so that others might taste the sweetness of the Lord.

Let us come together in this spirit of unity, joy and celebration…that we provide a taste of the sweetness of our Lord and His promise to provide us all with a future of Glory. Happy Summer! Happy Fourth!

See you in church,
Pastor John



June 2026
Welcome June!
Time is continuing it’s march through the calendar and our lives are feeling another year older. Here, another month of springtime growth and rising summer temperatures. Are we ready for the spirit’s guidance to unite us in ministry and send us forth?

God is continuing to open our eyes to His presence and direct us into deeper relationships with our brothers and sisters. But, how exactly do we experience God’s divine presence today and everyday?

We begin the month with Holy Trinity Sunday. In the book 1,001 Tales of the Arabian Knights, there is a story that involved three princes. One day they challenged each other to find the most marvelous thing in the world. Each went his own way, searching the bazaars of the Orient. At the agreed upon time, they met again to show what they had found that was marvelous. The first prince proudly held a us a spy glass through
which he could see anything, anywhere in the world. It was, indeed, marvelous! The second prince had found a magic carpet on which he could fly to any destination. It defied logic and was fabulous! The third prince had obtained a healing apple, one bite of which would give health and strength. No one had ever seen anything as precious! Now it happened that all three of the princes were in love with the same beautiful princess. But, alas! When the first prince looked through his spying tube, he cried out, “All is lost! I see her, but she is crying!” The second prince urged, “Hurry! Let’s go to her on my magic carpet.” In a moment they were at the dying princess’ side. “We can save her!” the third prince declared. And, with that, he thrust his healing apple forward so she could eat some of it. Instantly, her health was restored. It was the love of three working as one to save one they loved.

In a simple sense, it is a picture of God – a loving Father who purposefully and wondrously created us; a loving Son who gave his life for ours through his death on the cross and his resurrection from the grave; and, a loving Spirit who gave the breathe of life into our nearly dead souls. Joined to God through faith, we have life now and
throughout eternity. Our life has purpose and value. 

With this earthly explanation of 3 working together to bring healing and sustain life, we have a glimpse of a mission for us to follow. If you were to look at life through a magic spyglass what might you see that needs the attention of God’s church? Or…having the means of a magic carpet to carry you anyplace, where should we focus our ministry to bless others? And finally, are we willing to share what we have to being healing to the needy ones in our community?

The month of June will indeed present new opportunities for us to work together to answer the prayers being offered up nearby. We have been gifted with so many talents by he Father, Son and Holy Spirit to share them. The question for us is whether or not we will step out in faith to offer God’s presence.

Happy June people of the Trinity! See you in church.
Pastor John


April 2026
Happy Easter! The Greatest Story Ever told is now ours to tell. Where will you start? What events leading up to the Arrest of Jesus upset you the most? What portion of the story excited you the most? At the time of his crucifixion what do you think his followers were feeling and remembering most?

After his death on the cross, how do you think the disciples were feeling?

What about the events on Easter morning? Could you picture yourself among the women who made their way to the tomb? What might you be talking about with your peers?

What about the fact that the tomb was open…no stone blocking the door? Would you have gone inside or run home to friends and followers?

How will you feel when Jesus calls you by name as He did to Mary? Shock or elation? Fear or confidence. Will any of us fall at his feet and worship?

There is so much to take in when we are hearing and reading the true story of God’s Son, the Messiah, Christ the Risen Lord, but where are our emotions? Are we scared to death…or in death, are we feeling life?
It seems that both ends of ever spectrum of feelings plays out in our hearts. From the joy of Palm Sunday; disbelief of the preaching in the temple and overturning the tables of the money changers. Thursday night remembrance of Passover became a last supper where Holy Communion was first celebrated. Then came the trial, crucifixion, and
burial. Disbelief, sorrow,and grief take center stage in His departure. And then dawns a new day.

A NEW DAY filled with hope, light, life, familiar relationships are restored and Jesus LIVES!

This is the great mystery, HOW? How did we get back to a place of exceeding joy? How can there be life after his suffering and death? What are you struggling to understand in this greatest story ever told?

Perhaps the better, more meaningful question is how will this story and its outcome change our lives? How can we live and tell the story to others?

The First Letter of John begins to grasp the theological and mysterious truth of it all…”Because, God first loved us…” God acted and directed the events so that all of His Children would know of his intention to fill us with hope, forgiveness, and life itself.

St. Paul said, “…now, we see in the mirror dimly, but we will see clearly one day.” We now live towards that one day, some day, when he returns as He promised.

Happy Easter!
Pastor John


March 2026
The Season of Lent and the Month of March
Reflecting, Renewing, and Rejoicing Together
As we journey through the month of March, our church community enters one of the most significant seasons in the Christian calendar—Lent. This period, which begins with Ash Wednesday and leads up to Easter, is a special time for reflection, repentance, and spiritual renewal. Lent invites us to pause and examine our hearts, drawing closer to God through prayer, fasting, and acts of service.

This season we will encounter our faith following Wednesday night meals with conversations on topics of Spiritual direction. Daily life is busy and filled with distractions that; our Spiritual Direction is reduced to quick internet searches for “wisdom” from beyond, or a quick two paragraph thought from a pocket devotional booklet. God wants and deserves more of our heart than a quick reading. God wants us to go deeper to a true feeling or question we have. We should pray: “Lord God, Heavenly Father, give to me a word of direction and wisdom…” next, sit quietly, listen to your heart and a path for spiritual direction will begin to form. Who can be a “spiritual guide in your life? Who do your trust with your prayers about faith? How much time listening are you willing to commit to growing in your faith? Our dinner conversations will get us moving in this deeper encounter with your faith. Please, join us.

March is often a month of transition, where we catch the first glimpses of spring amidst lingering winter chill. In many ways, this mirrors the Lenten journey. Just as the earth begins to awaken and new life stirs, Lent encourages us to seek renewal and transformation in our own lives. It is a time to let go of old habits, embrace forgiveness, and prepare our hearts for the hope and joy of Easter.

Throughout this month, let us support one another in our Lenten commitments. Whether you are giving something up, taking on a new spiritual practice, or simply seeking more quiet moments with God, know that you are not alone. Together, we can grow in faith, deepen our sense of community, and emerge from Lent with a renewed spirit, ready to
celebrate the resurrection of Christ.

May this March be a month of meaningful reflection and joyful anticipation for each of us. Let us journey through Lent with open hearts, trusting that God will bring new growth and blessings in our lives.

See You in Church,
Pastor John


February 2026
 
Happy February! This also means the following: Happy Valentines Day! Happy Transfiguration Sunday!  Happy Ash Wednesday! Happy Season of Lent and Wednesday night suppers!   One might say that there is much to be happy about as the month of February unfolds.  What makes you happy about February?
 
Our Gospel readings will find us reading the Gospel of Matthew beginning with the Beatitudes in Chapter 5, Jesus fasting in chapter 6 and more fasting in chapter 4.   I invite you to read them as part of your daily devotions. Remember that the readings for each week are listed on the previous week’s bulletin.  That way you are always ready to listen to the sermon and worship themes each week.
 
Ash Wednesday begins this season of Lenten season with confession; we begin with Psalm 51; we begin on our knees. Today this ancient prayer placed on our lips becomes new again: “Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions.” We speak our truths from the shadow of our sin, the very shadow that marks our mortality. Like ash traced upon our foreheads, we are marked with the reality of our frailties and failings. It is stark reminder that sin and death are smeared all over us. From this inevitable reality, we cry out for mercy! For as bold as it is to name our sin and sinful ways that lead to death, it is all the more audacious to summon our God! To summon the one who actually has the power to do something about sin and the ways of death! On this day of penitence, through the work and witness of Christ Jesus, we summon God to come, to hear our prayer, and to listen to our confession.
 
So, with our truths laid bare, we confess our unfaithfulness to God, our lackluster love for our neighbors, our neglect of suffering and injustice in the world. In the same breath, we ask God to wash us, to purge us, and to create in us clean hearts. The smears of sin are washed clean through the love of Christ. And yet, we will leave worship Wednesday evening still carrying the cross-shaped trace of sin and death upon us. It is a reminder that, even amid our confession, we continue this Lenten season to listen for the perpetual call to return to the Lord our God who is gracious and merciful, abounding in steadfast love (Joel 2:13).
 
One closing thought about Ash Wednesday…what does this mark on the forehead say about us? About God? About our church community and our work in the world? what does this say about us?
I hope to see you at the Pancake supper on Shrove Tuesday, then again on Ash Wednesday.  I know I will be seeing you at the Wednesday night meals.  Perhaps February really means Fellowship with your church Family…
 
See you in church,                                                                             
Pastor John



January 2026

Happy Hew Year! Life’s slate of keeping “score” is wiped clean and we emerge as individuals who have new opportunities in life. Some of us will make New Year’s resolutions to …better ourselves. Resolutions that set
goals such as losing weight, read more, watch less television and use our cell phones a lot less. What might you desire to change about yourself from last year’s activities?

As for me, I want to spend more time exercising and taking care of my body. I know that I am not as young as I used to be, all of my bodily joints require stretching and moving as well as a monthly adjustment from a chiropractor.
 
The family of God is also developing new identities. We have a new bishop, new council leaders, new WELCA leaders and we all desire to receive “new members” to join us in worshiping God, receiving his
promise of salvation and living a new life of peace. Some of these “new” individuals will offer new ideas and directions for growth. Living life as usual won’t cut the mustard anymore. It’s time to try something new,
different and maybe experimental. What change can we embrace as God’s people to move away from an attitude of “good enough” for us… move in the direction of “better for welcoming a special guest”?
 
Such changes still require us to look in the mirror and take care of our reflection. Take care of the way we appear to others: new paint, new floors, clean tables, dust free environments… hair in place, smile on our
hearts, love shared as bread is broken and offered to others in Jesus’ name.
 
In the “newness” of a new month, a new year, our reflection and witness need to be much more than superficial smiles so that we are truly reflecting a devotion and commitment to shine forth the light and love of Christ. His birth in the manger was not simply a “cute” delivery proving that God can create life and light in mangers. The birth of Jesus is intended to show humanity that they are loved and redeemed by the love and desire of the Almighty. A love that comes for our sake…that we would have a new identity through him. He, Jesus is The King and we are His people. Our allegiance is to Him, and our purpose is like His purpose-to Love. Give love, encourage love, give forgiveness, be extravagant in loving ways.
 
May each member of His church identify with our NEW IDENTITY-Loving disciples who help and care for our neighbors by inviting them into a relationship with the man of the manger.

See you in Church… Pastor John