November 16 |Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost

Last Sunday we began a seven-week series called “Out of the Blue” – a time before and during the Advent season in reflective waiting for Christ’s coming into the fullness of life. We gather for shared imagination around moments of surprise, occasions of awe, and instances of inspiration. We hope to discover together the astonishment of God’s work and God’s purposes among us. The bible stories in this series follow the regular lectionary (set of readings) that are offered in many Christian churches. On November 16 we gather in the theme “Days to Prepare, Seconds to Cook” – the sudden fulfillment of old preparations, dramatic changes long in the works. Endings are near and there is no doubt about it. The warnings are dire. The tone of these bible readings remains ominous. And yet, Christians are strengthened for the living of these days in word, sacrament, and community.