What’s New At Incarnation?

Friends of Church of the Incarnation,you so much for your generosity and prayers for the people of Haiti in the tragedy of this earthquake. $1580 was collected last Sunday to be sent to UMCOR, and health kits are coming in. See the attached for an update on the United Methodists in Haiti.to everyone who has joined the “Welcome Pastor” Dialogue. It has been amazing in the midst of a very busy winter that about 18 people have taken the time to talk together, and with me, and committed to 40 days of prayer and journaling together. The dialogues have been a time of new learning and re-connecting.I look forward to next Wednesday! I know the commitment of each person will make a difference in the Church’s future.If you not sure what we are “doing” or “accomplishing”, you might want to read an article Richard Tani gave me from a Tribune editorial titled, “Futzing need not be wasted effort, but can lead to direction, purpose.” by Tom Peters. Christians have always had to “futz” around a bit in prayer and dialogue to hear GOD, who knows where it could lead.On a different note, this Sunday, January 24, 10:15 a.m. Worship is the Week of Christian Unity and Interfaith Relations. The sermon is “The Bible Isn’t Television” and believe it or not, I got that from our Bible readings, Nehemiah 8: 1 - 3, 5 - 6, 8 - 10, I Corinthians 12: 12 - 31a and Luke 4: 14 - 21.Brian McClaren gave me some insights, as well. When did you receive your first Bible? What difference does it make in your life, if any? Have you read it? Think about it.A prayer: God, thank you for loving us so much by giving us your word. May we honor you by spending time with your word each day. Amen. (from Upper Room Disciplines)Your Friend and Pastor, Rev. B.J. Birkhahn-Rommelfanger

Friends of Incarnation UMC,

Look at it snow!  I hope you are keeping cozy and warm on these midwinter days. I hear a sledding party is happening this Sunday for all young people.  How perfect.  See Gary Anderson for details!    Avoid the winter “blahs” and bring yourself and the children out for church school this Sunday. Bring a friend!

The sermon for Sunday, January 10, 10:15 a.m. worship, is “Wade in the Water” as we remember our baptism.  This is the Baptism of Christ Sunday, and in Luke’s gospel, Jesus “waits in line” to be baptized by John.   The scriptures are Luke 3: 15-17, 21-22;  Isaiah 43: 1-7, and Acts 8: 14-17.  Prepare to get “wet”!  (No, I won’t throw a snow ball at you!)

Just a reminder if you are joining me in the 40 Days of Prayer for the church, daily devotions and journal questions it is in the book, Welcome Pastor. The dialogue begins this Wednesday at 6:15 - 7:25 p.m. in the Library led by Joel Hartland, chair of SPRC.  I look forward to this time of dialogue as in these winter days we seek God’s guidance in shared ministry. Even if you do not yet have a copy of the book, please know you are welcome!

A prayer for this Epiphany:Holy Spirit, fall on me today.  Light me with your fire.  Remind me that I am God’s beloved.Amen.

Your Friend and Pastor,B.J.