At the Monday evening Bible study, we were joking about the week’s selection of readings—alternately moaning about the grim first reading and psalm, and scratching our heads over the Gospel passage. Some of us suggested that perhaps periodically the designers of the Lectionary got bored with their work, and just put a bunch of random readings in a paper bag, pulling out four for a random Sunday. See what connections you can make among the readings each week. Interesting puzzle.

In this week’s Reflection Letter we learn through Paul the change that can occur when we follow the way of Jesus. Read how he was once a blasphemer turned servant of Christ.

Today’s reading from the Epistle to Philemon contains some unusual features. In a world that all too often doesn’t seem to be interested in anything except what benefits the self, Paul is praising Philemon for his love and concern for other people. Second, the message was so important to Paul that he wrote it himself.

This week, we want to share various bits and pieces of news with you and give you some things for your calendars. Look inside: new COVID measures, fall events, The Great Chili-Lovers’ Smack-down Pot-luck Picnic!

Without change, our power to make an impact on the world is dissipated.  And instead of saying, “See, how much they love each other,” as the early Romans said about the early Christians, the world will say, “See how much they bite each other. Why would we want to join them?” So let us pray fervently.