A Moment for Mission
"A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road." — Matthew 21:8, NRSV
This time of year, even in the busyness of life, creation seems to jump out at us. Whether it is the daffodil or the crocus, buds on trees or the little yellow pops of dandelions invading even well-kept lawns, creation is springing up after a winter of what appeared to be death.
All of creation seemed to be involved with the birth, death and resurrection of Christ. From the shepherds with their sheep to the donkey and the colt and the branches as Jesus entered Jerusalem on this day we call Palm Sunday, we see Jesus interacting with creation. And, we see creation interacting with Jesus as he provides an abundance of fish, calms the sea, and as the earth shakes in the moment that he dies on the cross.
Creation is what God has provided to sustain us, providing us with shelter, food and water. Many of our United Methodist churches will be celebrating the Festival of Creation during this month. It is a day celebrating God's gift of creation to us.
The General Board of Church and Society also reminds us that we, as people of faith, are called to protect and serve God's creation. Our generous gifts to the World Service Fund aid this important work as the General Board of Church and Society continues to call us to care for this gift of creation.
Offertory Prayer
Giver of Life, awaken us to the responsibility of caring for the world you created to sustain and nurture us. Remind us of how we are connected to this earth and one another. Move us to take action in how we live and in our giving to carry out the work of sustainability and environmental justice. Amen.
From Discipleship Ministries: Passion/Palm Sunday - Blessed God, you are the King of the Universe! In steadfast love, you sent your Son Jesus to be the Prince of Peace. We are grateful for the majestic light that you shine through Christ's love and faithfulness, a light that could not be extinguished by his innocent death. Send your Spirit to strengthen the church to become bold witnesses who help our neighbors draw closer to you and your light. We dedicate our offerings and gifts in Jesus' name. Amen. (Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29)
Newsletter Nugget
The United Methodist Church General Board of Church and Society is active in many areas inviting the people of The United Methodist Church into a prophetic role in bringing God's vision to our lived reality.
The work they do brings our attention to how our life together affects others, as well as calling our attention to God's creation. That prophetic role includes calling us to consider climate justice and our role in sustaining this gift of creation for future generations as individuals and together as citizens of this planet.
Clean water is one of those areas where the General Board of Church and Society is raising awareness. Water is a vital part of God's gift to us. Yet, it is being misused and polluted. Some have little to no access to clean water.
Our contributions as congregations to the World Service Fund help the General Board of Church and Society ensure that the work of calling people of faith to continue protecting God's creation will continue.