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Midweek Blast of Epiphany Light

May 25, 2016

Your Odd Couple
A few years ago Craig Gross, a pastor, went on a speaking tour with Ron Jeremy, (yes, the adult film actor).  One might assume that these two would be at the opposite ends of the stage, hurling insults at each other, but, ironically, they are friends.  Craig has made it part of his mission to share with those who are involved with this industry that Jesus loves them.  It was at an adult film convention where Craig and Ron met.  (Craig's church regularly has a booth at these conventions in hopes of sharing with those who believe they are unlovable that Jesus does love them.)  They certainly disagree on things, and they share those differences openly, but they are still friends and care for one another.
 
Over the years, educated, well-spoken atheists and Christians have engaged in debates.  I wonder if they became friends too?  Judging by the comments on YouTube clips and online articles, the atheists and Christians, as groups, are far from cordial with one another.  Instead of trying to see the other as a being to be respected, as Craig and Ron have, the atheists and Christians seem to be more concerned with winning.  (Which begs the question, Who is losing?)
 
Historically, Lutherans have been the ones who have hung around in the middle and were able to orchestrate conversations between opposing viewpoints.  Grace is more of a gray area, and as lovers of grace, this seemed like a good place for us.  But I worry this isn't happening much anymore.  These types of conversations should be listed on the endangered species list because we tend to surround ourselves with people who are like us.  Not only is that boring, but if we lack tension and friction we also lack growth.
 
When was the last time you had a challenging conversation with someone who you disagreed with?  Were you able to remain friends afterwards, or did you un-friend them?  Or, do you pick and choose your topics carefully so you never have to talk about the hot-button issues?  When Jesus talked with women, tax collectors, and Gentiles, there were many who were quick to condemn him for this.  But Jesus never blocked them from the conversation; instead, he invited those who differed to sit at the same table.  In a very divided time, we need more of this.  We need those who will follow this example and break bread (or just talk) with those who share different opinions.  To move forward, we need to be challenged and we need to work together, because if someone is winning, then someone else is losing.  
 
In a divided world, we need more who bear the name of Christ to follow that example.  If you are looking for a role model, this one is a pretty safe bet.
 
Who are you having coffee with?
 
Chris 
 
Wednesdays at the Well tonight
Wednesdays at the Well icon
Wednesdays at the Well is our midweek service. Come worship with us at 7 p.m.!
Community meals at 6 p.m. and Imagine children's choir will resume on August 17th.

Pastor Chris will continue to focus on the book of Revelations in May.

Come, be refreshed at the Well!

Join us at Rita's custard shop tonight after service for an end-of-the-school-year treat! 
Register NOW for VBS! Invite friends!
"Surf Shack" Catch the Wave of God's Amazing Love
Visit the table in the lobby and sign up soon! Our vacation bible school will be held June 27-July 1 from 9-12. All children ages 3 through 5th grade are invited. Register here:http://2016.cokesburyvbs.com/epiphanysuwanee

 
The Experience Touring Choir
Coming to Epiphany June 24, 7 p.m.
Pastor Chris's former church, Christ Lutheran in Charlotte, NC, is bringing 62 high school students to our church to complete their summer tour. The Experience program, At Your Command, focuses on the 10 Commandments and their meaning for our life today. It is their mission to tell the story of Christ to the world through contemporary song, drama, dance, visual arts and much more!

Come and enjoy a family friendly night of laughter, music, and worship. This performance is free and open to the public. 

Invite your friends and neighbors!
 
Rainbow Village Summer Lunches
Please donate a $20 Publix gift card!
To help with Rainbow Village's summer programming, Epiphany will be providing one week's worth of sack lunches for their children attending day camp in June. That's 250 sack lunches! Our children and youth added a personal touch to these lunch bags by decorating them during the formation hour on May 8th.  Please bring your gift cards to church by June 14th!
 
 A new playground is coming!
June 1
Epiphany is breaking ground on a brand-new outdoor playground! This fantastic play area will be fenced in and safe for children. 

Stay tuned for more information on how you can be a part of this by donating a swing, slide, or tunnel. 
 
Car Wash for Haiti Summer Camp
Car Wash art Father's Day, June 19th
Get Dad's car washed (and yours!) Sunday, June 19th. Our youth traveling to Haiti this summer will be washing cars at church before and after services. Freewill donations will support their trip!
 
We need your plastic bottles!
Save your plastic bottles for VBS!
Please save your clean, empty plastic juice bottles (Naked, Bolthouse) with lids, 16 oz. Pepsi product plastic bottles with lids, or ICE plastic bottles with lids. Place in bags and mark VBS. Thank you! 

Epiphany tip: Bring your own cup to Wednesdays at the Well dinner and coffee cup on Sunday to reduce plastic and styrofoam waste.
 
Epiphany Lutheran Church
1350 Peachtree Industrial Blvd.
Suwanee, GA  30024
770-831-1966