Hello everybody! This Sunday we will focus on one of Jesus'
controversies with the Pharisees who are questioning the disciples
behavior. Jesus protests against human customs being given the
weight of divine law, while the essence of God’s law is ignored.
True uncleanness comes not from external things, but from the
intentions of the human heart. Last week Jesus told us “the words
that I have spoken to you are spirit and life” (John 6:63). Now
James says God has given us birth by the word of truth. We who
were washed in the word when we were born in the font return to
it every Sunday to ask God to create in us clean hearts.
Also, I wanted to remind everyone that on Sunday September
15th we will join with the folks from Bethlehem in Lynchburg for
what I hope will be an annual fall picnic and worship at Smith
Mountain Lake! It will begin at 10:30AM at the Isle of Pines
Aschbrenner Pavilion. I'll send directions next week. It would be
best if we could carpool because there is somewhat limited
parking. Blessings to you all!