SACRIFICIAL LOVE

Last Friday, I joined the College and Young Adults group on their trip to the Braves game. We cheered on the Atlanta Braves as they defeated the Philadelphia Phillies, 6 to 4. The Braves were playing well, and it was turning out to be a typical night at Turner Field...until the middle of the 8th inning. A young man hopped over the fence and ran onto the field (don't worry, he was not from our group). He sprinted past the Braves outfielders and tried to outrun the security guards who were in close pursuit. But there are not many places to hide on a baseball field, and the guards quickly tackled him to the ground.

As the guards carried him off the field and the stadium laughed and applauded, we asked each other, "What kind of trouble is he going to be in? A fine? Community service? A night in jail?" He knew the implications of running onto the field. He knew that he would not get away with it. He knew that his night would end with handcuffs and the backseat of a police car. But he still did it. Maybe it was for the story, or maybe it was for the cheers of the crowd.

As I think back through the ministry and life of Jesus, there were many times that Jesus knowingly did things that would get him in trouble. Jesus knew that healing on the Sabbath would upset Jewish authorities. Jesus knew that eating with tax collectors and sinners would cause trouble. Jesus knew that preaching the way he did would get him into trouble. But he still did it.

These actions of Jesus were not for the applause of a stadium or to have a good story to tell friends. These were actions of sacrificial love. Regardless of what might befall him, Jesus Christ continued to act in ways of love, acceptance, and grace, even when it meant death on the cross. One of the reasons we gather in our Sanctuary every week is to give thanks for that sacrificial love and grace of Christ that is extended to each one of us.

I'll see you this Sunday.

Restore to Glory!

Want more information about Restore To Glory! and its progress? Visit its Web site, which includes the latest news about projects with photos to show our progress. There, you will also find information about how to donate or make your pledge.

News

You are invited to join the Men of the Church for their August dinner meeting on Monday, August 11 at 6:30 p.m. at the home of Rev. Brian Smith, 96 Whitlock Ave. Marietta, GA 30064 (the parsonage). Dinner will be provided. This will be a great time to visit with Brian and the guys and to learn more about the Men of the Church. Note: this gathering will be in lieu of the First Monday Night gathering at Piccadilly. For more information, contact James Tate.

Weekday Ministry invites you to join our preschool family. We have room in our hearts and classrooms for a few more children ages 12 months (as of September 1) to five years old (as of September 1). Call or come by for a visit this summer and see what Weekday has to offer you and your child. (Nancy Tatnall, ext. 7842)

Middle schoolers are invited to Café 4:12 on Wednesdays at 7:45 a.m. at the Starbuck's across the street from the church. (Emily Kirby, ext. 7822)

Sunday Night Fusion continues throughout the summer from 6-8 p.m. (no snack supper). Join us in the Lower Room for theme nights, worship, devotions, fun and special outings. (Josh Sweeney, ext. 7808)

This Week

There will be a meeting of those interested a November trip to Chimbote, Peru in on Sunday, July 27 at 12:30 p.m. in Room 201B. There is a need for medical personnel to work in the health clinic, and also for workers with basic carpentry or electrical skills. (e-mail Kathy Cadle)

Fuse Lacrosse registration is underway! Children who turn 3 by September 1, 2014 through 5th grade are eligible to play, and the games will be from 2-3 p.m. August 10 through September 21 (except August 31). This is a fast-paced, fun sport for beginners or players who are looking for a way to improve their skills in a casual setting. For more information, visit the Fuse Sports page on the MFUMC Web site or contact Kelly Duncan.

Connect Through Table Fellowship

Family Church Suppers will return after Labor Day.

Save the Date

Back to School Backpack

Distribution Event

Saturday, July 26

Peru Mission Trip

Interest Meeting

Sunday, July 27

Youth Trip to Six Flags

Sunday, August 3

Sunday School Presidents Lunch