I encourage you to read Mark 5:21-43 before you come to worship this weekend. Jesus has been back and forth across the Sea of Galilee. After one of those crossings he is summoned to the home of an official of the Synagogue. The daughter of the family is gravely ill. Jesus is going, when a woman in the crowd reaches out to touch his garment. She too is in need of healing. The woman is healed and afterward a brief conversation unfolds.  Jesus proceeds to the original destination where the young girl has died. But, he assures the mourners not to worry, and raises the girl from the dead. This is one of the most instructive portions of the whole gospel. In every sentence Mark is revealing something at the very heart of the Church's understanding and mission. I am eager to preach this gospel! I ask for your prayers, presence and a little preparation!

 
            There is always a wonderful Vacation Bible School here at First. I noticed that the kiosk in the Narthex is decorated with a number of needed donations and items the VBS would like to borrow. If you are willing to help, just take the tag from the kiosk as a reminder. I would also encourage you to keep this important event in your prayers. It may be the learning experience which opens the heart of a child for life!

 

            This Sunday at the 10:45 Worship the Chancel Choir is going to present several of their favorite anthems from the past year. This isn't their last Sunday for the year, but we are going to do their "Hit Parade". (I am probably the only one who calls it that. Are there a dew of us who remember where that comes from?) It is a great way to celebrate the contribution of our Chancel Choir and express our appreciation for their efforts.

 

            Next weekend our Saturday service will be on the Fourth of July. We will celebrate and give thanks for Independence Day in all the service that week.

 

            The Taylor's are heading back toward Blue Springs. We talked this morning. They area having a great vacation. Rev. Karen will be in the office next Friday. They deserve this time away, and I encourage you to keep them in your prayers as they travel. They called from the top of Harney Peak in South Dakota. Google that and you will see some of the beautiful scenery they were looking at as we visited.

 

            I know it is summer. I know there are lots of things to do. Is there anything really more important than finding time to worship?
 
Grace and Peace to you,
 
Steve Campbell