Lenten Sermon Series: This past Sunday, March 15, was the third installment in this year's Lenten sermon series "Close Encounters." Taking inspiration from the work of Dr. J Allen Hynek, who defined a "close encounter of the third kind" as making contact, we've been hanging out with some folks who went beyond a sighting of Jesus and physical evidence of his ministry. We are exploring how their close encounter of the third kind—actual contact with Jesus—changed who they were through their relationship with God in Christ.
Last Sunday we learned from a man born blind that this contact with Jesus can embolden and empower us to take risks for the Good News. We witnessed a man whose life was so altered by his encounter with Jesus, that he was able to move beyond rules that were only meant to keep him on the margins of society. He was willing to risk his closest relationships with family and friends so that he could proclaim his faith in and follow the One sent from God. In the face of cross-examination and even bullying by the Pharisees, he was able to stand up for what he knew was right.
In next week's sermon we'll see Mary, Martha, and Lazarus have a close encounter with Jesus at the tomb where Lazarus was buried. Not only is there a miraculous healing as Lazarus is brought back to life, but we also see how a close encounter with Jesus isn't a once-in-a-lifetime event. In the aftermath of our encounters, we discover we can no longer remain bystanders to the great story of Christianity. Jesus draws us in and we become a part of the story. A story that can be shared and passed down from one generation to the next. A story of how a close encounter of the third kind with Christ can convert us and transform us.
Mae Chapman: One of McMurry Church's dear saints was promoted to glory on Wednesday, March 11. Mae Chapman lived to be 100 years and 7 months old, an amazing feat even in this day and age. I will deeply miss seeing Mae on Sunday mornings at McMurry. Mae always amazed me with her dedication and commitment to McMurry. Her faithfulness to her Lord Jesus Christ will long be remembered. May all of us take inspiration from Mae's cheery disposition, dedication, commitment, faithfulness, determination, and love.
St. Patrick: Since today is St. Patrick's Day, I will close with a few lines from the Lorica, St. Patrick's great prayer for divine protection.
As I arise today, may the strength of God pilot me,
the power of God uphold me, the wisdom of God guide me,
the hand of God protect me, the way of God lie before me,
the shield of God defend me, the host of God save me.
May Christ shield me today.
Grace & Peace,
Pastor Clayton