Dear Church Family,
During
the spring semester, I led the Parlor class in a study of the ancient and medieval
church. This fall we will be learning
about the Reformation. Of course this is
a timely study since this year we are celebrating the 500th
anniversary of Martin Luther nailing the 95 Thesis on the castle church door in
Wittenberg.
The
first couple of classes (beginning on September 10) cover the end of the middle
ages and how the soil was fertile for reformation in the church. From the early church through the time prior
to Luther, monasticism was the characteristic institution of the church. Though most Presbyterians, and other Protestants
for that matter, are less than impressed with the practice of monasticism, but
in the 13th century mendicant orders of monastics gave rise to
people like Francis of Assisi who completely devoted their lives to live as
Jesus lived. In their heyday these
friars who left the confines of the monastery to be Christ’s representatives in
the world devoted their lives to caring for the poor, studying, and
prayer.
In
our busy world with overbearing calendars, I wonder how much time we have to
devote to the various spiritual disciplines that God has given by God’s
grace. Is there time to not only read
Scripture, but to meditate upon the words of the Bible, and sincerely seek to
apply the teaching of Scripture to our lives?
Do we
have a group of friends with whom to study the Word, to discuss the Word, and together
find meaning for living in the 21st century?
Our
Sunday school classes are back in business following a summer break. Sunday school provides a place to study with
friends, and to seek together God’s truths.
And when it comes to our children, we are commissioned to train them in
the knowledge of Christ. I hope you will
take advantage of our Sunday school offerings and let us be serious about our
study of Christ.
If a
Sunday morning study does not work for you, let me know and maybe we can talk
about forming a small group Bible study in your home or the home of another
member.
Blessings,
Steve
