First Steps – August 17, 2020

Lately Iā€™ve been thinking about Benedictions, dismissals with blessings. One that caught my eye can be used anytime but mainly at the conclusion of a wedding ceremony:

(Minister to Couple)Ā God the Eternal keep you in love with each other, so that the peace of Christ may abide in your home. Ā Go to serve God and your neighbor in all that you do.

(Minister to Congregation)Ā Bear witness to the love of God in this world, so that those to whom love is a stranger will find in you generous friends. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you. Ā Amen.

Though very appropriate for a wedding, it is also good words to live by each day. Ā Give it a try.

This Week’s Readings:
  • Monday –Ā Luke 11
  • Tuesday –Ā Luke 12
  • Wednesday –Ā Luke 13
  • Thursday –Ā LukeĀ 14
  • Friday –Ā Luke 15
Please Pray for:
  • Our ministers and their families.
  • Those who are unwillingly absent.
  • The United Methodist Church family.
  • Our nation and our leaders.
  • Teachers and students as they transition.
  • The Lost.
  • The lives of those touched by the Coronavirus.