Posted by hlewis |
I was recently surprised to hear our scripture for this week, the beloved story of the prodigal son, described instead as the story of the forgiving father. How would you describe it? The story of the spoiled kid who wasted his inheritance? His father who continued to spoil him when he returned? His loyal brother who was taken for granted? We tend to err on the side of judgment: how we feel about…
Posted by hlewis |
As we continue through the miraculous stories in the season of Epiphany that reveal Christ to us, I am eagerly anticipating my favorite season in the church year: Lent. Yes, you read that right! Many would prefer skipping the season of Lent, especially those pesky, emotional services during Holy Week, and go straight to the celebration of Easter, but not me. I love turning inward, dwelling in the…
Posted by hlewis |
Did you know there are actually twelve days of Christmas? The count begins on Christmas day and ends on Epiphany, Jan. 6. I have always loved learning about the back story of songs and hymns, and thought I’d share the interesting story behind The 12 Days of Christmas.
The song begins, “On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me...” “True love”…
Posted by hlewis |
When I was in college, I was given lots of opportunities as a young musician. I directed and accompanied church choirs; taught piano lessons and keyboard classes; and played and sang for weddings and funerals. It was a great way to figure out what I wanted to do with my life and start to really see how I could bring joy and comfort to others through music.
I did try to avoid difficult situations,…
Posted by hlewis |
This week we lift up this scripture from Mark 9:37: “Whomever welcomes one of these children in my name welcomes me … and the One who sent me.”
Our church works hard at being welcoming, especially by inviting our children and youth to lead. They have been encouraged since they were little to stay in the pews even when they’re noisy. They have sung in children’s choir, acted and…
Posted by hlewis |
Last Sunday we celebrated an amazing woman’s 97th birthday at the early service. Shirley Schrodt now lives in Independence, but always comes back to Salem to celebrate with her friends. She has touched so many of our lives, and we love the excuse to have flowers and treats for her special day! I wanted to share with you something amazing that happened behind the scenes that morning:
…Posted by hlewis |
There have been a lot of songs with the message that we need to trust that God is on our side even when things don’t work out the way we hoped. Mercy Me sings, “I know You’re able, and I know You can … but even if you don’t, my hope is You alone.” Hillary Scott sings about trying to understand why her broken heart is a part of God’s plan, and yet “…sometimes I gotta stop, remember…
Posted by hlewis |
Something happened last week in our church that stopped me in my tracks. On May 8, Rev. Dr. Megan Rohrer was elected as a bishop in the Sierra Pacific ELCA synod, becoming the first openly transgender person in our country to do so in any major Christian denomination. They will serve almost 200 congregations in California and Nevada.
…Posted by hlewis |
I can’t help but compare Easter 2020 to Easter 2021, and I am feeling hopeful.
We are still the church. We worship together, in person and online. We pray for each other and are helping our neighbors. Let me give you some examples:
Posted by hlewis |
Remember the Sabbath day, and keep it holy. Rest from your labors. This commandment is a difficult one to follow, don’t you think? As worship and music director, Sunday is the day I rest the least! I encourage my three kids to be active outside of school, so weekends are not for resting at my house.
My mom tells the story that as a young teen, my favorite days were the ones with absolutely…