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Faith United Presbyterian Church
Focus on Faith |
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 What Do You Think? "How Shall We Live?"
He was married to Pharaoh's daughter. King Solomon that is, perhaps the greatest of Israel's kings, next to David. This was the problem.
In his book, Journey to the Common Good, Walter Brueggemann sets forth two competing narratives for understanding God's purposes for God's people - the Exodus narrative and, what I would call, the Temple narrative. In the Exodus narrative, God hears the cry of God's people, who had become a commodity in Egypt. Held captive by Pharaoh's "nightmares of scarcity" and their own anxiety because of the famine in the land, God's people endured a life of forced labor, where, no matter how much they produced, it was never enough. They were slaves to an economic system that brought wealth, power, and wisdom to Pharaoh, and suffering, hardship and toil to God's people. Through the leadership of Moses, God brings the Hebrews from slavery in Egypt, through the wilderness, to Mt. Sinai, where they received the Ten Commandments and the possibility for a new way of life - a life of neighborliness.
Brueggman sees the commandments, not as a restrictive moral code, but as "the most elemental statement of how to organize social power and social goods for the common benefit of the community." The journey from Exodus to Sinai becomes a journey from being a commodity in Pharaoh's oppressive economy to living as neighbors in the Land of Promise, from fearing scarcity to enjoying God's abundance, from living as slaves to sharing in the common good. This distinction is made clear in a passage from Deuteronomy.
"When you reap your harvest in your field and forget a sheaf in the field, you shall not go back to get it; it shall be left for the alien, the orphan, and the widow, so that the LORD your God may bless you in all your undertakings. When you beat your olive trees, do not strip what is left; it shall be for the alien, the orphan, and the widow. When you gather the grapes of your vineyard, do not glean what is left; it shall be for the alien, the orphan, and the widow. Remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt; therefore I am commanding you to do this." Deuteronomy 24:19-22
Breuggemann contrasts the Exodus narrative with the competing claims of the Temple narrative. While the Exodus narrative is central in the Old Testament and in the identity and promise of God's people, there exists in God's people a desire to return to the "security" of Egypt. Breuggemann sees this reflected, not only in the Hebrews as they are making their journey through the wilderness, but even more clearly in King Solomon's infatuation with wealth, power, and wisdom. Married to Pharaoh's daughter, it seems Solomon's vision of the "common good" had more in common with Pharaoh's vision of the "common good" than that offered by God on Sinai.
Following Pharaoh's example, Solomon incorporated forced labor for the building of grand "governmental projects", including the Temple. Moreover, in Solomon's society, there was a hierarchical order, which looked much like an Egyptian pyramid, a small group of the wealthy, powerful and privileged at the top, forcibly sustained by the commodification of the increasingly less wealthy, powerful, and privileged masses. This view of society was replicated in the architecture of the Temple's courtyards, where the large outer court was for the least worthy; a smaller court, the holy court, was for those deemed worthy; and, the smallest, inner court, the holiest of holies, was for a select few. While Solomon is revered as a great king in Israel's history, Brueggemann suggests, his infatuation with wealth, power, and wisdom, or, better, the means by which he accumulated his wealth, power, and reputation for wisdom, and the ends for which he used them, would lead to collapse, ruin, and death.
In contrast, Brueggeman offers the prophecy of Jeremiah:
"Thus says the LORD: Do not let the wise boast in their wisdom, do not let the mighty boast in their might, do not let the wealthy boast in their wealth; but let those who boast boast in this; that they understand and know me, that I am the LORD; I act with steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth, for in these things, I delight, says the LORD." Jeremiah 9:23-24
Centuries later, Jesus would warn of the destruction of the Temple. I find it hard to believe, he was speaking simply about tearing down a building. Instead, I believe, he was calling us to a new way of life - a life not where we relinquish our wealth, power, and wisdom - that would only leave us poor, oppressed, and ignorant. Rather, I believe the new life to which Christ calls us is a life of steadfast love, justice, and righteousness, whereby we use, and share, our wealth, power, and wisdom, for the glory of God and the good of all.
See you in church!
Pastor Myers
revhaggis1@hotmail.com
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This Sunday is Stewardship Commitment Sunday!
"Giving Our All for the Good of All"Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17 Hebrews 9:24-28 Psalm 127 Mark 12:38-44 Lay Assistant: Janice Cunningham
Beedle/Crucifer: Dalton & Larry Willett
Usher: Robert Blackford, Bill Lee, Dominick & Malik Reading, Ed Melvin
Greeters: Gary & Jonalyn Heaton and Betty McBride
Children's Church: Ann Phelps
Nursery: Tammi & Dalton Hottle
Crock-pot Cook-off following worship.
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Stewardship Sunday - November 11, 2012
Each fall the Stewardship Committee asks the congregation to make a financial commitment to the ministries of the church for the upcoming year. Commitment Sunday is preceded by a period in which the congregation is asked to reflect and pray about the use of their resources in the context of God's providing love. The committee then compiles the response in order to assist the session in determining the scope of ministry that will be possible for the coming year. Join us this Sunday, November 11, 2012 for our Stewardship Commitment Sunday.
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Sunday School
Sunday school begins at 9:15 a.m. PreK (3+) and Kindergarten - meet in the upstairs theater. Your teachers are Mrs. Lyle and Ms. Simpson. 1, 2, 3th grade - meet in the upstairs theater. Your teacher will be Mrs. Myers and Crystal Sargent. 4, 5, 6th grade - meet in the upstairs theater. Your teachers are Mrs. Heaton, Mrs. Dingman, and Mr. Best. 7 & 8th grade - meet in the junior/senior high room above the nursery. Your teachers will be Dr. Sargent and Jill McClintock. Senior High - will meet for lunch on October 14, at 12:30 p.m., at Dew's Diner. Adult Sunday School Faith & Life: November 11 - We will have another class on A Sustainable Presbyterian Future. Bible Study: Will meet in the brides room across from the chapel just outside the social hall.
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Gift of the Heart ♥ Kits
What a blessing it is to be a part of a faith community of so many generous and compassionate people. In the wake of many natural disasters here in the United States, we've had so many of you send money, donate your time through mission trips, and put various kits together. During the Mississippi flooding several years ago, we even had a group of youth sandbag and do yard cleanup in the Keithsburg area through Presbyterian Disaster Assistance. For this, we are thankful! We have the opportunity to act once again, in response to the massive devastation on the east coast, pull our resources together to help others in need through Presbyterian Disaster Assistance. We will be collecting two different kinds of kits that the youth will assemble on November 25, to help those afflicted in places like New Jersey. If you would please choose from the following list of items to donate and turn in to the office by Sunday, November 25, you will be making a difference in someone's life this holiday season. Hygiene Kit Baby Kit 1 hand towel (approx. 16" x 28", no fingertip 6 cloth diapers* or bath towels) 2 t-shirts or undershirts (no onesies) 1 washcloth 2 washcloths 1 wide-tooth comb 2 gowns or sleepers 1 nail clipper 2 diaper pins 1 bar of soap 1 sweater or sweatshirt 1 toothbrush 2 receiving blankets (one can be knitted 6 Band-Aids or other adhesive bandage strips or crocheted baby blanket) (approximate cost $10) (approximate cost $39) *Note: cloth diapers are not common, but are necessary. 12-packs of cloth diapers can be purchased at Target and many Sears stores. If you have any questions, or would like to make a donation, please contact Heather. Thank you!
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Crock-pot Cook-off Entry
Yes, it's time again to hold our 3rd Annual Crock-pot Cook-off on November 11, following worship.  The rules are simple: Select a recipe that is cooked only in your crock. This can include anything from breakfast dishes, to soups, main courses, to desserts. Basically, anything that you can cook in a crock-pot. Adults, youth, and children will then sample each one, voting on the yummiest dish. The person with the most votes will win a gift certificate to a local restaurant! The entry fee is $5.00, and would be helpful if it is submitted along with your name and what you'll be making to the office by Friday, November 9. Taste-buds Needed!
Crock-pot Cook-off
November 11, 2012
at 11:45 a.m. (following worship)
$3.00 per adult and $1.00 per child under 12 will let you...
sample from each crockery and give you the ability
to vote on your favorite one!
(Drinks will be provided.)
All proceeds will go toward the cost of our 2013 Triennium and youth missions.
Thank you always for your support!!!
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Grief Series - A Journey of Renewal
For six Thursday evenings beginning this evening, November 1, the Chaplains' Association of OSF Holy Family Medical Center will sponsor a fall series, "Grief: Journey of Renewal" for people who have recenly experienced the death of a loved one or those finding difficulty in coping with their grief. The discussions will be led by Doug Gibb, Bereavement Counselor. The sessions begin at 5:30 and adjourn at 7:00 p.m. Each session will be held at the OSF Holy Family Classroom. Registrations are appreciated. For information and registration call, 734-1404. Session Topics:
November 8 - "The Positive Power of Grief"
November 15 - "Memories"
November 22 (holiday - date to be determined by group) - "Advice for Friends of the Bereaved"
November 29 - "God Cares" by a Chaplains' Association Member
December 6 - "Coping with Special Days"
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Per Capita
The per-capita assessment underwrites the operating costs of the Presbytery of Great Rivers, the Synod of Lincoln Trails, and General Assembly. It also pays for denominational dues in the National Council of Churches and the national ordination exams for candidates for the ministry. This year the per capita is $28.00 for each confirmed member. Traditionally, congregations ask that all members pay their per capita in addition to making a contribution above and beyond their regular giving to assist in meeting our denominational operating cost.
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Fall Trivia Night
The Warren County United Way will be holding its annual Fall Trivia Night on Friday, November 16, at the Warren County History Museum in Monmouth. Registration will begin at 6:30 p.m. and trivia will begin at 7:00 p.m. The cost is $80 per team - Maximum of 8 players. $200 first place prize and $100 second place. To get a copy of the registration form, see Heather in the office no later than Tuesday, November 13, 2012.
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Thanksgiving Pot Luck
Our annual thanksgiving gathering as a church family will be Sunday, November 18, in the Social Hall following worship. Please bring a dish to share and your own table service. AS we celebrate our blessings with a feast, let us also share our bounty with our neighbors by bringing boxed or canned goods for the Jamieson Community Center pantry.
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An Invitation to Read the Bible
(11/11/12) Sunday - Titus 1:16 - Hebrews 2:17, Monday - Hebrews 2:18 - 7:13, Tuesday - Hebrews 7:14 - 10:38, Wednesday - Hebrews 10:39 - 12:29, Thursday - Hebrews 13:1 - James 3:17, Friday - James 3:18 - 1 Peter 2:24, Saturday - 1 Peter 2:25 - 2 Peter 1:21, (11/18/12) Sunday - 2 Peter 2:1 - 1 John 2:29.
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Children's Health & Wellness Fair
Sunday, November 18, 2012, from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Zion Lutheran Church of North Henderson, will host a Children's Health & Wellness Fair at the Alexis Field House in Alexis. They will have a coat drive/exchange - give a coat, take a coat, trade a coat.
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Candidate Suggestion Form - Faith United Presbyterian Church
Elder - Deacon - Trustee
The task of the Nominating Committee is to place the names of qualifies individuals before the Congregation as nominees to fill positions on the church boards. The Congregation must then vote to elect these persons. The Nominating Committee needs your help in determining who is qualified and able to serve, if nominated. Please give this form to any member of the Nominating Committee. Candidate Name: ____________________________________________________ The 2012 Nominating Committee is: Gene Larson, Mary Distin, Crystal Sargent, Sally Bowman, Julie Armstrong, Debbie Dingman, Gary Distin, Buster Kellogg.
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November Birthdays
1 Larry Inman 2 Scott Gibson 6 Dalton Hottle 7 Tammi Hottle Heather Turnquist 8 Alice Lawson Alison Clark Susan Gilliland 9 Lila Blum Kylie Finnicum 10 Jodi Cheek Donna Lee 11 Megan Brown Brenda Runge 13 George Haynes 14 Dixie Wells 16 Deborah Stanton Jamie Youngblood 21 Mia Logsdon 26 Carolyn Simpson 27 Cindy Wilson Krista Larson 29 Bill Lee 30 Carolyn Meling
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Prayers
For:
Thank you:
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Dorothy Hutchinson, Vernon Mettler, Don Tomlin, Jane Warfield, Mick Miller, Tracey Williams, Lindsay Murdock & family, Vern Carr, Janet Themanson, Jim & Janet Paris.
During a time as this, we realize how much our church family means to us, upon the loss of my brother, Wayne Hasting.
Your expression of sympathy will always be remembered.
Bill & Betty Lee
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