June 7th

Max Lucado writes in Grace for the Moment, a devotion based on Colossians 3:13: Get along with each other and forgive each other. If someone does wrong to you, forgive that person because the Lord forgave you. Unity does not begin in examining others, but in examining self. Unity begins not in demanding that others change but admitting that we aren’t so perfect ourselves. The answer to arguments? Acceptance. The first step to unity? Acceptance. Not agreement, acceptance. Not unanimity, acceptance. Not negotiation, arbitration, or elaboration. Those might come later, but only after the first step, acceptance. Isn’t it interesting that acceptance comes first? That means you heard the other person and accept what he/she says at the moment. You do not have to agree, but rather accept. I can argue as well as the next person, but what is that saying in my communication? That you do not count? In order to have community, we need each other, need each other’s forgiveness, and remembering who forgave YOU first, God. These days will be difficult. We want to vilify those not wearing masks in public or do not maintain 6 feet of distance. So, you do not need to argue, just move yourself, or ask that the other protect you as you protect them. Remember Colossians 3:13 before your next argument.

St Marks will resume in-person worship on June 7th at a new time: 10:00 AM. You are most welcome to join us on this, Trinity Sunday. We ask only that: Do not come if you have a fever or are not feeling well. There will be an LSIM online service. Wear a mask. We will have a few if you do not have one. This protects others. Be liberal in using hand sanitizer. There will be some in the pews and at the door. Sit 6 feet apart in designated pews. Family members who have been at home with each other may sit together. Do not arrive sooner than 15 minutes before service and leave promptly at the close of service. Fellowship in the parking lot. There will be no bulletins or hymnals. Please use the screens during the service. All of this is to decrease risk of infection to you and others. We are doing this out of a sense of love for you and because it is the right thing to do.

Blessings this week! Nancy Trimble, Deacon