Entering the Weekend with Christ

Hi everyone,

Keeping the Sabbath holy for seven days a week is a wonderful idea, with the proper focus on serving others in Christ rather than simply chillin',

Pastor Tim

"God has led you to the desert, and spoken to your Heart."

Mount of Olives Lutheran Church

3546 E. Thomas Rd

Phoenix, AZ 85018

602-956-1620 office

Honoring God:

Faith in Action Together

Siblings in Christ,

This Sunday’s readings encourage us to reflect on the essence of honoring God. It's not just about words or rituals, but about translating our faith into tangible actions. Keeping the Sabbath holy does not mean we “rest on our laurels”.  Our Scripture readings offer this guidance:

• Mark 2:23-3:6: Jesus challenges the rigid interpretations of the Sabbath, reminding us that God's laws are meant to serve humanity, not the other way around.
• 2 Corinthians 4:5-12: Paul emphasizes that our ministry is not about self-promotion but about proclaiming the message of Christ, even in the face of suffering.
• Deuteronomy 5:12-15: The Ten Commandments remind us to honor God by observing the Sabbath, a day of rest and reflection.

Living the Scripture Message:

So, how do we translate these insights into action? Here are some ways:

• Prioritize compassion and service: Seek opportunities to help those in need, even if it means stepping outside your comfort zone.
• Speak up for what is right: Challenge injustice and advocate for the marginalized, even when it's unpopular.
• Live with intentionality: Make conscious choices that align with your values and faith.
• Practice gratitude and reflection: Take time to appreciate God's blessings and reflect on your purpose in life.

Honoring God is not a passive act; it's a dynamic process of living out our faith in the world. By prioritizing compassion, speaking up for what is right, living with intentionality, and practicing gratitude, we can translate our faith into tangible actions that demonstrate the true meaning of honoring God.

Let us live our “Faith In Action Together”, and allow our actions to be a reflection of our faith, a testament to our love for God, and a beacon of hope for the world.