| William Tyndale translated the Bible into English during the 16th Century. He believed every person could read and understand the scriptures if they had it written in their language. Eventually, he gave his life for his beliefs. In one of his sermons, he said: “Love is not the cause of forgiveness. Forgiveness causes love. The more we are forgiven, the more we love…but when the gospel of Christ demonstrates how God loves us first, forgives us, and has mercy on us then we love again. As the saying goes, ‘Summer is near because the tree blossom.’ The blossoms do not bring summer. Summer brings the blossoms.” Reflecting on his sermon, I realize the order of things. Often, we think we are to generate love for others as if we have a vat of love that we simply draw from for our relationships. Unfortunately, I don’t think that vat exists—it would be nice if it did. However, when we are loved first—the New Testament describes this love in the form of God’s forgiveness—then our heart changes to the point that love naturally flows out of that change. If it is difficult to love others, spend time focusing on forgiveness. Allow God to love first, receive his love through his Spirit. Don’t worry about the relationship with others until you fully receive God’s love. Then, every other relationship will take care of itself.  This Week’s Readings: * Monday – Luke 21 * Tuesday – Luke 22 * Wednesday- Luke 23 * Thursday – Luke 24 * Friday- Acts 1 Prayer Requests: * Continued Blessings in the New Year 2022! * Strengthen the St. Paul United Methodist Church family. * Heal those who are sick and protect those who are not. * Give our leaders extra wisdom as they navigate this pandemic and economic uncertainty. * Help those seeking to find their way. |
| “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6 |