It’s been several weeks since my last “Weekly Word.” My family and I went to California to visit my brother at Yosemite National Park. I am so thankful for the people who led and listened out for our congregation while I was away.
Last Sunday morning, Amy and I went hiking up a dusty, rocky trail to a gorgeous view of Yosemite Valley. Along the way, we met other hikers from around the world and across the country – a young man from Italy on an American adventure, a father and daughter from Texas who told us, “Lord bless you!” and a blended family with adopted children that was winded from the climb. The hike – and the people we met along the way – was our “church” for the week.
Sometimes, community just happens. What a gift!
Last Sunday afternoon, after our hike, I got a phone call from Sarah Stone. As many of you know, Sarah has been bravely battling leukemia for the third time in her life. She apologized for calling while I was on vacation, but she had a specific request – that I try to come down to Boston on Friday, August 16 (today) to have a prayer with her before her bone-marrow transplant. I told her I would be there. But I also told her there would be others – a great cloud of witnesses – praying for her.
Sometimes, community just happens. What a gift!
As you read this on Friday, Sarah – Lord willing – will have undergone this hopefully-life-saving procedure. And, as the bone marrow transplant begins to do its work, let us pray this prayer for Sarah. . .
Most Merciful God, Creator and Sustainer of Life,
We come before you today, humbled by your great gift of life. In your infinite love, you planted within us these tiny cells that have the power to heal and renew. For giving scientists, physicians, and nurses the knowledge to use these cells for our well-being, we give you thanks,. For having brought us to this special day, we give you thanks.
Today, we ask a special blessing on Sarah as she receives these life-giving cells. Let her trust not only in their power to heal, but your invitation to new life and new birth. Grant Sarah patience and hope, strength and healing, as she waits for the restoration of mind, body, and spirit.
And now, send your own Spirit upon these cells. Bless them with your love and healing power.
In your Holy Name we pray. Amen.
Lord, hear our prayers. . . the prayers of your people.
This coming Sunday, at the Bedford Community Picnic, we will gather with the whole Town of Bedford to celebrate the bonds of being neighbors. Many of our neighbors are also praying for Sarah this week. This is one thing, among many, that we hold in common.
Sometimes, community just happens. What a gift!
I am glad that YOU are part of our extended community and am so thankful for you. . .
See you in church!
Grace and Peace,
John
Prepare for Worship
This Week: “Communion Bread (Capital Letters and Community Life)”
- Read John 6:51-58
- Read Ephesians 5:15-20
- Read Psalm 34
- Read or sing Hymn # 522 – “I am the Bread of Life”