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As
we journey through the Season of Easter, I hope that you will set aside some
time to prepare for worship each week by reflecting on the appropriate texts
and instructions that follow.
April
5, 2015
The
Season of Lent has passed and it is time to celebrate! In preparation for worship, read Isaiah 25:6-9 and Mark 16:1-8.
Likely you know in the liturgical calendar, Easter is not just one day—it’s a season—and
the Season of Easter is 50 days long. As you consider this most wondrous time
of the church year, what you might do in the next 50 days to keep the joy of
the season alive in your heart, mind, and soul?
April
12, 2015
This marks
our first celebration of Holy Humor Sunday. Take a moment to reflect on
Ecclesiastes 3:1-4 and Psalm 2 and then consider the following:
1.
What
do you learn about laughter from these texts?
2.
How
many other verses can you find in the Bible that concern joy and laughter?
3.
How
important is laughter in your life?
4.
Do
you feel God calling you deeper joy in your faith journey? If so, how might you
act upon this calling?
April 19,
2015
At a
recent day retreat, our Music Director, Louise Daniel, provided an opportunity
for us to consider that many of the songs we sing come directly from Scripture.
Sunday, we will continue along this line of thinking with the theme for morning
worship, “Sing the Word.” Louise will lead us in singing some wonderful music
and I will preach a short homily. Come prepared to sing! In addition, this
would be a perfect time to flip through our new hymnal and note your favorite
hymns. Write them down and share your list with me so that we might sing them in
upcoming services.
April 26,
2015
As part of
CHPC’s goal to become designated as an Earth Care Congregation through the
Presbyterian Church (USA), we will gather to celebrate Earth Day on April 26th.
The church will be filled with wonders of God’s creation and we will reflect in
particular on how we eat as it impacts God’s creation in the face of a changing
climate. In preparation for worship, read Matthew 14:13-21. In our day and
time, do you think there can be enough food for everyone? If so, how might we
might help in this endeavor? Then read Luke 24:36-43 and consider why Jesus
asked for food to eat in this passage.
Each and
every Sunday, I look forward to worshiping with you but during the Season of
Easter, it is even more joyful to sing, pray, and celebrate together as a
worshiping community. And this year, April is filled with so many wonderful worship opportunities designed to continue the celebration. Make plans to attend each
service and bring along a friend.
Shalom,
Glenda
