Tapestry by Easley Presbyterian Church

A Worship Magazine

Easley Presbyterian Church

Easley, SC

Oct. 2019

Vol. 5 Issue 2

A common thread that joins us together with Christ and with each other.

World Communion World Communion Sunday -celebrated the first Sunday in October -- is one of the most venerable of “special Sundays.” The day has taken on new relevancy and depth of meaning in a world where globalization often has undermined peace and justice -- and in a time when fear divides the peoples of God's earth. On this day we celebrate our oneness in Christ, the Prince of Peace, in the midst of the world we are called to serve -- a world ever more in need of peacemaking. This Sunday is celebrated by many different churches in many different denominations all over the world. It is one of my favorite of the “special” Sundays of the year. I have had the opportunity to go on several different mission trips and experience worship in several different cultures. I am reminded just how big this world really is. And I am reminded that God is even bigger. No matter what language is spoken or how different the cultures may be, it is the same God we worship, and the same God we serve. I love the idea of being part of something bigger than myself. That is one reason I love the choir. In a choir, all of our small individual voices are joined together to be something greater than the sum of its parts. We all contribute, we all have a voice to raise, but together we are stronger and better and more

beautiful than anyone alone. World Communion Sunday reminds us that the church— the whole body of believers, is larger than our congregation, or presbytery, or denomination, or even our country. We are a part of something bigger, something wonderful. We are part of the body of Christ. In a world where peace is hard to find, this Sunday reminds us that we are One in Christ. And that is a wonderful reason to celebrate. —Robert Norris

Sunday, October 6

“Mission of Disciples Mark 6:7-13

He called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics. He said to them, “Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave the place. If any place will not welcome you and they refuse to hear you, as you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.” So they went out and proclaimed that all should repent. They cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.

In celebration of World Communion Sunday, we will share in music and worship from around the world. Listen for music from Africa, India, Japan, Taiwan, Sweden, Germany, the Caribbean, and others. Many voices, many countries, many languages, but all One God that we worship. Thanks be to God for the many ways He has called us to praise.

“He Came Down That We Might Have Love” (click title to listen)

tune from Cameroon

Christ Jesus, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death—even death on a cross. Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:6-11 He came down that we may have love; He came down that we may have love; He came down that we may have love; Hallelujah forevermore. He came down that we may have light. He came down that we may have peace. He came down that we may have joy. —Cameroon song, transcribed by John Bell

Philippians 2:6-11 is one of the earliest Hymns to Christ. I find it touching that before the passage was ever made the topic of theological debate, it was a simple hymn. Before it was preached, it was sung. Without reasoning and argumentation the early believers embraced these complex incarnational truths by means of a simple melody. “When the soul hears music it lets down its best guard,” Socrates said. And so with music those early saints sand their way to a belief in the unbelievable.

3 With their hearts as well as their minds, the embraced the mystery of the Incarnation of Jesus. In the opening of the song, two concepts which were central in the life of Jesus were presented: humility and servanthood. Jesus “made himself nothing” and “humbled himself”, the early Christians sang. He took the form of a servant though he might have grasped equality with God. This was the puzzling nature of the appearance of “God with us.” In humility and as a servant, he came to live and die for us. God held up Jesus to us and said, “This is what it means to be created in My image!” Who would have ever dreamt that the image would be that of a servant? —Michael Card, “Immanuel: Reflections on the Life of Christ”

Hymn Meditation: Come Christians Join to Sing click title to listen)

A tune from Spain

Come, Christians, join to sing: Alleluia! Amen! Loud praise to Christ our king: Alleluia! Amen! Let all, with heart and voice, before his throne rejoice; Praise is his gracious choice: Alleluia! Amen!

Singing God’s praises provides many important Come, lift your hearts on high: Alleluia! Amen! benefits to believers. There is the awareness that Let praises fill the sky: Alleluia! Amen! He is our guide and friend; to us he’ll condescend; God is pleased when the voice is lifted in praise: His love shall never end: Alleluia! Amen! “He who offers praise honors me” (Psalm 50:23). Then Praise yet our Christ again: Alleluia! Amen! Life shall not end the strain: Alleluia! Amen! we On Heaven’s blissful shore his goodness we’ll adore, learn many Singing forevermore: Alleluia! Amen! —Christian Henry Bateman, 1843 important spiritual truths and concepts when we sing. For many of us, our first awareness that God loves us and that he loves all the children of the world was gained through a song sung at our mother’s knee or in Sunday School. Singing will also provide encouragement and comfort in times of need. Often when we are experiencing periods of discouragement and despondency, a simple hymn will come to mind and will be used of God to mend our fragile emotions. Also, singing is one of our best preparations for heaven. The Bible teaches that we will enjoy giving praise and singing throughout eternity. This hymn was originally titled “Come , Children, Join to Sing.” it first appeared in 1843 in a collection Sacred Melodies for Sabbath Schools and Families” The author, Christian H. Bateman served three Congregationa; churches in Scotland and England and then was ordained in the Anglican church.

Hymn Meditation: “We Come as Guests Invited”(click title to listen) A tune from Germany O taste and see that the Lord is good.” We come as guests invited when Jesus bids us dine, Psalm 34:8 His friends on earth united to share the bread and wine; The psalmist calls for us to fully experi- The bread of life is broken; the wine is freely poured ence God’s goodness — experience with For us, in solemn token of Christ our dying Lord. all of our senses. We eat and drink, receiving from Christ the grace we need, This morning, as you come into worship. And in our hearts believing on him by faith we feed; Look over at the stained glass windows. With wonder and thanksgiving for love that knows no end, See how the Light of Christ transforms the We find in Jesus living our ever-present friend. glass into something radiant and beautiful. One bread is ours for sharing, one single fruitful vine, Thank God for his transforming power and Our fellowship declaring renewed in bread and wine: for the beauty around us. Renewed, sustained, and given by token, sign, and word, Listen as the organ plays. Let the music The pledge and seal of heaven, the love of Christ our Lord. — Timothy Dudley-Smith, 1975 wash over you and reach into you and move you. Thank God for the beauty of music. Thank Him for the way He reaches deep inside us and stirs our heart toward worship. Touch the pew in front of you. Feel the smooth and strong wood. Thank God for His sturdiness — for His strong and never-changing faithfulness to us. Open the Bible and smell the pages. (I happen to love the smell of old books.) That’s the smell of learning. It’s a smell that stretches back through time and connects us to the past. Thank God for this connection with worshippers throughout the centuries who have studied the Word and passed it down with great love and dedication. During communion, savor the taste of the bread and juice. Taste the sweetness of God’s mercy. Thank Him for the bitterness He drank so we could experience this sweetness. Thank him for all of our senses and how He “speaks” to us through them all. A few years ago, while I was helping serve communion, a little boy came to the altar to be served. He knelt down beside his parents and held out his hands to receive the little cup of grape juice. He drank the juice with gusto, smacked his lips and let out a big “Ah!” I couldn’t help but chuckle to myself at this child’s exuberance in receiving holy communion. After the service I had time to let that moment sink in a bit. The verse from Psalms echoed in my mind: “O taste and see that the Lord is good.” What a wonderful image of joy that pared with that verse. Communion is a holy act that strengthens us and sustains us. It fills us with grace. But this is a reminder that it also satisfies us in deep ways and fills us with joy. This communion, let us come to the table that the Lord has prepared. Let us come with joy to taste and see the goodness of our Lord. Let us smack our lips and say “Ah”, and leave satisfied and refreshed. Thanks be to God. Amen. — Robert Norris

Call to Communion: “For the Bread Which You Have Broken” (Beng-Li) tune from Taiwan The tune BENG-LI was written in 1970 by composer I-to Loh. He sensitively combines his meloFor the bread which you have broken, dy, comFor the wine which you have poured, posed in the style of traditional Asian vocal music, with a For the words which you have spoken, three-part accompaniment. It was written for a scene in a Now we give you thanks, O Lord. passion play that depicts the Last Supper. In your service, Lord, defend us, In our hearts keep watch and ward; In the world where you have sent us, Let your kingdom come, O Lord. Lift your voices to God, all ye people! Praise the Lord singing alleluia! Everybody sing together alleluia! All creation sing together alleluia!

Anthem Meditation: African Psalm Meditation: “Let Everything That Has Breath”

Psalm 148, 149, and 150 all command creation to sing praise to the Creator. Psalm 148 begins: “Praise the Lord from the heavens. Praise him in the heights above. Praise him, all his angles. Praise him, all his heavenly hosts. Praise him, sun and moon. Praise him, all you shinning stars. Praise him, you highest heavens and you waters above the skies. Let them praise the name of the Lord.” The psalm continues to command each tree and plant, each bird and fish and animal to praise the God, the Creator. Psalm 150 ends with: “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord!” The transition from Summer to Autumn is upon us. And it just seems like everything is bursting into glorious songs of praise. The plants and trees and flowers and bursting into color (and pollen — do sneezes count as sounds of praise?) The birds are singing away, the tree frogs are chirping merrily. Even the rain and thunder have to join in the cacophony. I have read that scientists have now catalogued approximately 5, 400 species of singing animals. Some creatures even show the capacity of learning and repeating musical lines, improvising melodies, and composing new tunes. Just sit in your backyard and listen to the varied music of creation around us. God created this universe with a capacity for song, from the tiny cricket to the massive blue whale. All of creation is designed to sing his praises. I don’t want to be left out!

6 Let everything that has breath praise the Lord! Great Creator and Giver of every good and perfect gift, You have created us for praise. You have given us this glorious gift of music, and we now give it back to you. May each note, each song, each breath, each sigh be a gift of gratitude to you. Amen. —Robert Norris

Hymn Meditation: “Christ Be Beside Me” (Click title to listen)

A text from Ireland and Tune from Wales

There is a great beauty in the simple, yet formal greeting and blessing that is so much a part of Irish culture. These blessings are very often strongly connected to nature and God as Creator. Christ is revealed through His creation and all of nature praises it’s creator. The natural rhythm of the words form it’s poetic structure — each word is artfully chosen and flow easily from the lips. Even when spoken, there is music in the speech. Scripture is full of blessings and greetings.: “The Lord bless you and keep you: the Lord make His face to shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: the Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you Christ be beside me; Christ be before me; peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.” Christ be behind me, King of my heart. “May the God of hope Fill you with all joy and peace in Christ be within me; Christ be below me; Christ be above me, never to part. believing, So that you may abound in hope By the power of Christ on my right hand, Christ on my left hand, the Holy Spirit. Amen.” “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which inChrist all around me, shield in the strife. deed you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the Christ in my sleeping, Christ in my sitting, Christ in my rising, Light of my life. word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and Christ be in all hearts thinking about me; spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Christ be on all tongues telling of me. Christ be the vision in eyes that see me; And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of In ears that hear me Christ ever be. the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.” —From St. Patrick’s Breastplate “Now the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant, even Jesus our Lord, equip you in every good thing to do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen. “

Benediction: We Are Marching in the Light of God”

(click title to listen)

The African church is a reflection of the African idea of family. The Swahili word ujamaa (community) may best describe the concept of family among African peoples. In addition to close family members and relatives, members of the community are also regarded as family. Visitors are generally welcomed and highly valued. The community that forms an African congregation is inclusive and invitational in nature; it welcomes strangers and visitors. John Mbiti, a prominent African theologian, says, "I am because we are, and since we are, therefore, I am." Although this proverb has been interpreted to mean that one cannot live without the existence of the whole community, it has a We are marching in the light of God. We are marching in the light of God. deeper meaning for Africans. In addition to the importance of the We are marching in the light of God. community as a whole, there is a profound sense of love, solidarity, We are marching in the light of God. care, and mutual assistance that binds the people who live in com- We are marching Ooo munity. When a child is born to one family, that child belongs not only We are marching in the light of God. —From a South African Freedom Song to that particular family but to the whole community.

Sunday, October 13 Death of John the Baptist Genesis 5:1-32

King Herod heard of it, for Jesus’ name had become known. Some were saying, “John the baptizer has been raised from the dead; and for this reason these powers are at work in him.” But others said, “It is Elijah.” And others said, “It is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” But when Herod heard of it, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised.” For Herod himself had sent men who arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, because Herod had married her. For John had been telling Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” And Herodias had a grudge against him, and wanted to kill him. But she could not, for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he protected him. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed;[f] and yet he liked to listen to him. But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his courtiers and officers and for the leaders of Galilee. When his daughter Herodias[g] came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests; and the king said to the girl, “Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will give it.” And he solemnly swore to her, “Whatever you ask me, I will give you, even half of my kingdom.” She went out and said to her mother, “What should I ask for?” She replied, “The head of John the baptizer.” Immediately she rushed back to the king and requested, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a (click platter.” The king was deeply grieved; yet out of regard for his title to listen) oaths and for the guests, he did not want to refuse I greet thee, who my sure Redeemer art, her. Immediately the king sent a soldier of the guard with orMy only trust and Savior of my heart, ders to bring John’s head. He went and beheaded him in the Who pain didst undergo for my poor sake; prison, brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the girl. I pray thee from our hearts all cares to take. Then the girl gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body, and laid it in a tomb. Thou art the King of mercy and of grace,

Hymn Meditation: “I Greet Thee, Who My Sure Redeemer Art”

Reigning omnipotent in every place: So come, O King, and our whole being sway; This is perhaps the most “Presbyterian” of hymns in Shine on us with the light of thy pure day.

our hymnal. It is often attributed to none other than John Calvin himself (although research places much doubt on that authorship). The English attribution to Calvin appears to be wishful thinking dating especially from the translation in 1869. It is closely connected to Calvinist theology of the middle period of the Reformation. John Calvin was a strong proponent of Psalm singing in the church. Even today, our hymnal includes a large portion of psalms. Calvin commissioned Clement Marot to oversee the versification of the psalms — setting the text of the psalms in a poetic meter that could be easily sung. But nowhere during his time did Calvin condemn the writing of hymns

Thou art the life, by which alone we live, And all our substance and our strength receive; Sustain us by thy faith and by thy power, And give us strength in every trying hour. Thou hast the true and perfect gentleness; No harshness hast thou and no bitterness. O grant to us the grace we find in thee, That we may dwell in perfect unity. Our hope is in no other save in thee; Our faith is built upon thy promise free; Lord, give us peace, and make us calm and sure, That in thy strength we evermore endure.

8 of human poetic composition. In his compilation of the 1551 Geneva Psalter, Calvin included this hymn text: “I Greet Thee Who My Sure Redeemer Art.” The text was first published in the 1545 Strasbourg Psalter. It is sometimes easy to forget the tumultuous events of the Reformation period. It is amazing to realize that even during these difficult times (and perhaps even because of the difficult times) congregational singing was emphasized and blossomed. Perhaps the fact that the authorship of this hymn is still debated reveals the important recollection that the Reformation was achieved not by one individual, but by many working together to determine how reformed worship should truly be expressed. True renewal of the church takes place within community and is never the work of just one person.

Anthem Meditation: “On the Wings of the Dawn” (click title to listen) Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? — Psalm 139:7 In this psalm, King David of Israel professes that God sees and knows everything (vv. 1-6) and that God is If I rise on the wings of the dawn present every-where (vv. 7-12). For God, there is no If I settle on the far side of the sea, “out of sight, out of mind.” Then the writer praises Even there your hand will guide me. Your right hand will hold me fast. God as his creator from the time of conception (vv. 13-18). And in the end he bows before the God If I say surely darkness will hide me, And the light be dark around me, who searches each human heart and every Not even dark is dark to you. thought (vv. 19-24). What a feast of poetic praise Night will shine like the day. and prayer—both fearsome and faith-building. You created me within, David’s fundamental question is “Can I ever esYou knit me in my mother’s womb, cape God’s gaze?” He uses a wonderful Hebrew I praise you for I am fearfully made. Your works are wonderful. parallelism: “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where If I rise on the wings of the dawn can I flee from your presence?” These questions If I settle on the far side of the sea, evoke both the fear of knowing that God always Even there your hand will guide me. has his eye on us and the comfort of enjoying God’s Your right hand will hold me fast. —From Psalm 139 eternal presence. These questions may remind us of a another question, found in Romans 8:35: “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?” As we can see, the psalm writer fears God but is not scared off. The psalmist knows he can trust God, and we can sense his gratitude that God is always there to watch over, protect, correct, and lead. Whatever the day brings, even when we stray from God’s way for us, let us take comfort in the reflections of Psalm 139. Our Lord and Savior is with us always (Matthew 28:20). We can also consider an ancient prayer attributed to St. Patrick: Prayer O Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know when I sit and when I rise. Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I go from your presence?

9 “Christ be with me, Christ within me; Christ behind me, Christ before me; Christ beside me, Christ to win me; Christ to comfort and restore me.” Amen! — Norman Brown “Today’s Devotion”

Hymn Meditation: “If Thou Bust Trust in God to Guide Thee” A Liturgy for a sick day For this brief pause, for the reminder of my own weakness and of my dependence upon you, I thank you, O Lord. A day such as this, in which I endure a measure of sickness or unease, is a reminder that the redemption of all things is not yet complete. It is a reminder that this body will decline and one day fail, and so it is also a reminder that the ways I spend my days matter — for my hours, revealed like veins of gold beneath a rushing stream, are a limited resource to be purposefully mined or forver lost. A day such as this is a reminder that good health and vigor are gifts to be consciously and gratefully enjoyed, and to be invested while they might, in eternal things. So let me finish this day, O Lord, wiser than I began it. Let me now, in light of the knowledge that a time might come in this life when I feel such sickness and discomfort for a long season, when I must adjust to a “new normal,” when my abilities are limited either by the slow decline of age or If thou but trust in God to guide thee, from some accident, injury, or disease. Therefore let With hopeful heart through all thy ways, God will give strength, whate’er betide thee, me use the good health that I have while I have it, To bear thee through the evil days. presuming nothing. Who trusts in God’s unchanging love Let me use it to serve well, to love well, to care for Builds on the rock that nought can move. your people, your creation, to spend my allotted days Only be still, and wait God’s leisure cherishing hearts, creating beauty, bringing order, ofIn cheerful hope, with heart content fering healing, delighting in your goodness manifest to To take whate’er thy Keeper’s pleasure me in a million ways, and so to one day come to the And all-discerning love hath sent. end of my days having stewarded then well. No doubt our inmost wants are clear Heal my body from this sickness, O Christ My healer. To One who holds us always dear. Be gracious. Give rest. Sing, pray, and swerve not from God’s ways, Raise me again to health with a heightened sense But do thine own part faithfully. of thankfulness for the unmerited gift of well-being, Trust the rich promises of grace; and also with a greater sense of compassion for those So shall they be fulfilled in thee. God never yet forsook at need who suffer lingering ailment, disease, or discomfort. The soul secured by trust indeed. Teach me by my own small suffering to be a better —George Neumark, 1641 minister and friend to those who suffer greatly.

10 So let even the unease I fell today work as your servant, accomplishing your better purpose in me. Amen. —Douglas K. McKelvey, “Every Moment Holy”.

Hymn Meditation: Arise Your Light Is Come Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. Isaiah 60:1 Arise, your light is come! The Spirit’s call obey; Show forth the glory of your God, Which shines on you today.

Throughout the book of John, Jesus refers to Himself as “the Light of the world.” This Light, by miraculous means, entered the world and forever changed it. We are to allow this Light to consume us, renew us, and transform us Arise, your light is come! from the inside out, so that we might lead lives that proFling wide the prison door; claim the name of Jesus and the glory of God. Proclaim the captives’ liberty, In the hustle and bustle of our ordinary lives, it is all too Good tidings to the poor. easy to lose sight of the people, possessions, or opportuniArise, your light is come! ties with which we have been blessed. Regardless of the All you in sorrow born, Bind up the broken-hearted ones stress of work or school, financial or familial situations, let And comfort those who mourn. us allow ourselves to be poured into by God and His word, as well as our brothers and sisters in Christ, so that we may Arise, your light is come! The mountains burst in song! pour into others, both strangers and friends, as we are Rise up like eagles on the wing; filled to the brim with God’s love, peace, hope, and God’s power will make us strong. grace in accordance with Romans 15:13, which reads, — Ruth Duck, 1974 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Even amidst the toughest of times, we have so much to be thankful for. Even the breath in our lungs is enough reason to fall humbly before our God. May we keep our eyes fixed on our Heavenly Father, trusting the Light that defeated darkness. May we be led to love and help the poor, the brokenhearted, and the lost. Let us dwell in the blessings that Christ has provided for us and relish in all that He has done for us and through us. May we keep this passage from Matthew 5:16 fresh on our minds and close to our hearts: “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Marie Galvan, “College Station Devotional”

Sunday, October 20 Feeding 5,000 Mark 6:30-44

The apostles gathered around Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught. He said to them, “Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a deserted place by themselves. Now many saw them going and recognized them, and they hurried there on foot from all the towns and arrived ahead of them. As he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things. When it grew late, his disciples came to him and said, “This is a deserted place, and the hour is now very late; send them away so that they may go into the surrounding country and villages and buy something for themselves to eat.” But he answered them, “You give them something to eat.” They said to him, “Are we to go and buy two hundred denarii [i] worth of bread, and give it to them to eat?” And he said to them, “How many loaves have you? Go and see.” When they had found out, they said, “Five, and two fish.” Then he ordered them to get all the people to sit down in groups on the green grass. So they sat down in groups of hundreds and of fifties. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before the people; and he divided the two fish among them all. And all ate and were filled; and they took up twelve baskets full of broken pieces and of the fish. Those who had eaten the loaves numbered five thousand men.

Hymn Meditation: “Source and Sovereign” (click title to listen) Some hymns have an opening line (called an incipit) that intrigues the singer so much that they must continue. Such is the case with “Source and Sovereign, Rock and Cloud” by poet and homiletical scholar Thomas Troeger (b. 1945). How does a catalogue of names, even for God, become poetry worthy of congregational song? Hymnal editor Carlton Young notes correctly that the “poet has provided a catalog of human and natural attributes of God in a cleverly framed text with alliterated, rhymed, and juxtaposed metaphors tied to-

gether with a compelling refrain.” Stanza one focuses on images associated with God the Creator. Examples are “Rock” (Psalm 31:2), “Cloud” (Exodus 13:21; 24:18), and “Judge” (Psalm 7:11). Stanza two includes images primarily associated with Jesus including “Word” (John 1:1), “Shepherd” (John 10:11), and Eucharistic images of “Bread and Wine.” Stanza three centers on metaphors that describe or suggest the work of the Holy Spirit such as “Breath” (Genesis 1:2), “Dove” (Matthew 3:16), and “Comfort” (John 14:8). The shape of the hymn provides a theological lens for understanding the work of the Trinity. The refrain is an important feature of this hymn. From a practical perspective, the singer gets some relief from the cluster of metaphors in each stanza. The biblically astute singer will find that many of the metaphors employed are iconic—a window into an entire biblical narrative.

14 12 On another level, the refrain reminds us that the nature of the Godhead cannot be contained in just a few words; indeed, language fails us when it comes to pondering eternal truth, yet we must try. The refrain is an admonition to the “church at prayer” that God’s truth may be found behind many names, and that the “God of many names is the God whom we proclaim.” Bonae voluntatis Mr. Troeger is a native of New York. He is a graduate of Yale Word and Wisdom, Root and Vine, University, Colgate Rochester Divinity School, and has received Give usSavior, peace. Servant, Lamb, Shepherd, And on earth peace to all of good will honorary doctorates from Virginia College and Virginia TheoWell and Water, Bread and Wine, —Traditional Way who leads us to I AM: logical Seminary. He served New Hartford Presbyterian Church May the church at prayer recall as associate pastor before joining the faculty of Colgate RochThat no single holy name ester/Bexley Hall/Crozer Theological Seminary in Rochester, But the truth behind them all Is the God whom we proclaim.

Source and Sovereign, Rock and Cloud, Fortress, Fountain, Shelter, Light, Judge, Defender, Mercy, Might, Life whose life all life endowed: May the church at prayer recall That no single holy name Dona nobis pacemthem all But the truth behind Et in terra pax hominibus Is the God whom we proclaim.

Anthem Meditation: Because the Lord is my Shepherd”

Storm and stillness, Breath and Dove, Thunder, Tempest, Whirlwind, Fire, Comfort, Counselor, Presence, Love, Energies that never tire: May the church at prayer recall (click title to listen) That no single holy name But the truth behind them all The Good Shepherd Is the God whom we proclaim. Jesus said, “ I am the Good Shep—Thomas H. Troeger, 1986 herd. I know my own, and my own know me.” John 10:14 MANY years ago I lived in the area now known as Yemen, and I frequently traveled into the country, away from cities. On one such trip I realized as never before the meaning of Jesus' words in John, chapter 10. I met a shepherd with his sheep, and through an interpreter I told him that Jesus referred to himself as a shepherd. One thing puzzled me. Jesus claimed to know his own sheep by name. Could that be true? Did he, my newfound friend, know his sheep like that? With a smile he asked me to point out one sheep in the flock. I did so, and after a brief pause, he gave a peculiar whistle. The sheep to which I had pointed came slowly towards him. The shepherd nuzzled the sheep before asking me to point out another. This time his whistle was slightly different, and again the sheep I pointed to came to the shepherd. When I commented, "So Jesus could speak about knowing his own sheep by name?" the shepherd nodded. Then he said, "Your Jesus must have been a good shepherd." I Because the Lord is my shepherd, I have everything that I need. watched as he slowly walked He lets me rest in meadows green and leads me beside the quiet stream; away, the sheep following him, He keeps on giving life to me and helps me to do what honors him the most. their trust obvious. Even when walking though the dark valley of death, — E. Philip Schofield (Chester, I will never be afraid, for he is close beside me. England) Guarding, guiding all the way, he spreads a feast before me. In the presence of my enemies he welcomes me as his special guest. Prayer: Good Shepherd, teach With blessings overflowing, his goodness and unfailing kindness Shall be with me all of my life, and afterwards I will live with him us to trust you and to follow you Forever in his home. always. In your name we pray. —Ralph Carmichael (Psalm 23) Amen. — Upper Room Daily Devotionals, November 18, 2001

Hymn Meditation: “Break Thou The Bread of Life”click on title to listen

“And Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to me shall never hunger, and he who believes in me shall never thirst.” John 6:35 Mary Artemesia Lathbury was a daughter of a MethEt in terra pax hominibus odist preacher and was a native New Yorker. She Bless voluntatis thou the truth, dear Lord, now unto me, Bonae served as general editor of publications for the children As thou didst bless the bread by Galilee. and youth division of the Methodist Sunday School UnThen shall all bondage cease, all fetter fall. Give us peace. ion. AndonI shall peace, mywill all in all. And earth find peacemy to all of good —Traditional — Mary. A. Lathbury, 1877 Her hymns, however, have been her most enduring legacy, including the popular “Day is Dying in the West”, written on the beautiful shores of Lake Chautauqua. She was asked to write a hymn for a sudy of Jesus Christ, the Bread of Life. In response, mary wrote this hymn, “Break Thou the Bread of Life”. This hymn connects the Bread of Life with the Word of God — the Bible, as well as the Bread of Life in Jesus Christ, the Word of God incarnate. Just as the bread was multiplied as Christ broke it and shared to the thousands of hungry congregants, the scriptures profoundly multiply our understanding of Christ at each reading of the Word.

Break thou the bread of life, dear Lord, to me, As thou didst break the bread beside the sea. Beyond the sacred page I seek thee, Lord. Dona nobis pants pacemfor thee, O Living Word! My spirit

— “Then Sings My Soul 2”, Morgan, (and RN)

Hymn Meditation: “Loaves Were Broken”

The miracle Mark describes in today’s passage, the feeding of the five thousand (14:13–21), is the only miracle found in each of the four gospels. It is a wonderful event in which Jesus actually provides food for as many as fifteen or twenty thousand (most of the five thousand men present would have had women and children from their families with them). From a human perspective it is remarkable that there was an occasion for this miracle to take place at all. Christ is actually trying to get away from the great crowds that He is attracting, presumably to rest and devote Himself to prayer (see vv. 22–23). Hearing that Herod Antipas is beginning to take notice of His ministry motivates Jesus to go to a desolate place in order to find respite and commune with His Father (v. 13), but He is unable to arrive at His destination alone. Though He sets out by boat, the people follow the Savior’s course by walking along the shore to meet Him when He makes landfall. Christ’s compassion renders Him unable to ignore the needs of the people, and, as the Good Shepherd, He continues to meet their

14 need for healing (vv. 13–14; John 10:10–11). The Messiah’s powerful multiplication of five loaves and two fishes into a meal for thousands is well-known, but a critical theological emphasis of this passage is often overlooked. Of course, Jesus’ ability to create so much out of so little demonstrates His mastery over the natural realm. Yet this act also has overtones that are strongly eschatological (end-times, the point at which God accomplishes His plan in full). In first-century Judaism, fish and Loaves were broken, words were spoken bread were staples in the diet of the poor. More importantly, many Jewish thinkers believed these items By the Galilean shore. Jesus, Bread of Life from heaven, would be part of the Messiah’s banquet with His peoWas their food forevermore. ple in God’s presence at history’s end. The order in By your body broken which Jesus takes, blesses, breaks, and distributes the By your body broken for us, bread also matches His institution of the Lord’s SupBy your wine of life outpoured, per, which is itself a foretaste of the grand feast to Jesus, feed again your people. come (Matt. 14:15–19; 26:26–29). In feeding the five Be our Host, our Life, our Lord. thousand, Jesus commences this celebration and will Loaves were broken, words were spoken fully realize it at His return. He is showing us that in Him In a quiet room one night. we, even now, begin to enjoy that which God promisIn the bread and wine you gave them, es to His people at the end of the age (Ezek. 34:20– Christ you came as Light from Light. 24). Loaves were broken, words were spoken, Coram Deo As in faith we gather here. Jesus speaks across the ages: Matthew Henry writes about the tremendous lefto“I am with you; do not fear!” vers found after the thousands were satisfied: “The provision Christ makes for those who are his is not bare By the loaves you break and give us, Send us in your name to share and scanty, but rich and plentiful; an overflowing fullBread for which the millions hunger, ness.” We should not be surprised when God goes Words that tell your love and care. above and beyond all that we would ask or dream. — Herman G. Stuempfle Jr., 2005 Consider a time in which He provided for you more abundantly than you could have imagined and tell another person of this occasion today.

15 Immediately he made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side, to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. After saying farewell to them, he went up on the mountain to pray. When evening came, the boat was out on the sea, and he was alone on the land. 48 When he saw that they were straining at the oars against an adverse wind, he came towards them early in the morning, Dona nobis pacem walking on the sea. He intended to pass them by. But when they saw Et in terra pax hominibus him walking on the sea, they thought it was a ghost and cried out; for Bonae voluntatis they all saw him and were terrified. But immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.” Then he got into Give us peace. the boat with them and the wind ceased. And they were utterly And on earth peace to all of good will —Traditional astounded, for they did not understand about the loaves, but their (click title to listen) hearts were hardened. When they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret and Let everything that breathes praise moored the boat. When they got out of the boat, people at once recthe Lord! Praise the Lord! Psalm 150:6 ognized him, and rushed about that whole region and began to bring the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. And wherever he went, into villages or cities or farms, they laid the sick in the marketThis hymn was written by Joachim Ne- places, and begged him that they might touch even the fringe of his ander, born in 1650, whose father, cloak; and all who touched it were healed. grandfather, great-grandfather, and Praise the Lord! God’s glories show, Alleluia! great-great-grandfather — all Joachim Neanders — had been preachers. But this Joachim had a rebellious Saints within God’s courts below, Alleluia! Angels round the throne above, Alleluia! streak and at 20, he and a group of students ranAll who see and share God’s love. Alleluia! sacked a church during the worship service. The preacher at that church reached out to him and Earth to heaven exalt the strain, Alleluia! changed his views. A few years later, Joachim was asSend it, heaven, to earth again, Alleluia! Age to age, God’s mercies trace, Alleluia! sistant preacher at that very church. Praise God’s providence and grace! Alleluia! Joachim would often take long walks in Hochdal, Germany. He called them worship walks where he Strings and voices, hands and hearts, Alleluia! would pray and meditate and often write hymns as he In the concert, bear your parts, Alleluia! All the breathes, your Lord adore, Alleluia! walked. Singing praise forevermore, Alleluia! He wrote this hymn while battling tuberculosis at age — Henry Francis Lyte, 1836 30. He died later that same year. “Praise Ye the Lord, the Almighty, the King of Creation.

Sunday, October 27 Jesus Walks on Water

Hymn Meditation: “Praise Ye the Lord, the Almighty”

16 O my soul praise Him, for He is Thy health and Salvation.” —from “Then Sings My Soul” by Robert J. Morgan

Anthem Meditation: “Beautiful in His Time” A Time for Every Season

He hath made all things beautiful in His time. And I know that what God doeth it shall be. It shall be forever. He hath made all things beautiful in His time.

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to To everything there is a season, And a time to every purpose under the heaven. plant, and a time to pluck up that which is And I know that whatsoever God doeth, planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; It shall be forever. a time to break down, and a time to build He hath made all things beautiful in His time. up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a —Ecclesiastes 3 time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace. There is a time for everything. When my children were small I looked forward to each milestone in their lives. I wanted to see them crawl, and hear their first words. I could not wait to get them out of diapers. It was wonderful when they started feeding themselves. It was a special time when I watched them go to school with their little book bags and towels for naptime. And in just a few years, I helped them pack up for college. The time was short. All the milestones I had hoped to see, are just memories now. "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." How are you spending your time? Are you missing things today, as you look for things in the future? Are you wishing your life away? I often hear, "I wish it was Friday". We say, "I can't wait until my vacation." We need to cherish each new day as a gift from God. This chapter reminds us of times in our lives. "A time to be born, and a time to die;... A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance... A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away." (Ecclesiastes 3:2, 4, & 6) What are you doing with your time? Take time to weep with those you love... and spend time laughing with them too. Don't lose out on treasures today, because you are spending all your time wishing for tomorrow. —from “A Mother’s Heart” daily Devotions.

Hymn Meditation: “My Hope Is Built” (click title to listen)

My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus' blood and righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly lean on Jesus' name.

On Christ the solid rock I stand, “With the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may All other ground is sinking sand; Dona nobis pacem know what is the hope to which he has called you.” All other ground is sinking sand. Et in terra pax hominibus Ephesians 1:18 When Darkness veils his lovely face, Bonae voluntatis The Bible likens our faith to a house. Some homes are I rest on his unchanging grace. built topeace. last while others crumble easily in strong wind or In every high and stormy gale, Give us And on earth peace to all of rain. The difference is good not will in the severity of the storm but My anchor holds within the veil. —Traditional in the quality of the foundation upon which the His oath, his covenant, his blood structure is built. The author of this hymn text wisely Supports me in the whelming flood. chose “the solid rock” on which to build his own life, When all around my soul gives way, and he rested on Christ’s “unchanging grace” until his He then is all my hope and stay. homegoing at age 77. Edward Mote was the son of When he shall come with trumpet sound, poor innkeepers in London, England. He was unaware O may I then in him be found! of the Hope of Christ until the age of 16 when his life Dressed in his righteousness alone, was changed. He eventually became a minister in Faultless to stand before the throne! — Edward Mote Sussex, England. He remained there, preaching this hope until 1873 when his health no longer permitted it. He died a year later. During his busy life as a minister, Edward Mote wrote more than 150 hymn texts. In 1836 he published a collection titled Hymns of Praise and included “The Solid Rock” in it. Determine to build your life on a firm foundation, and praise God for Christ, the Solid Rock.

Hymn Meditation: “Great God of Every Blessing” (click title to listen) Every Good and Perfect Gift

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17 Have you ever been faced with overwhelming self-doubt? Have you ever been paralyzed by fear of failure? Have you ever been consumed by the certainty that you are just not good enough? I know all of those things very well! But I have also come to understand that I have been given a good and perfect gift. It is a precious thing — not of my own making, or of my own doing, but it is a gift from above. The Father of Lights, whose faithfulness endures forever has graciously given every good and perfect gift. I find so much comfort in this understanding: “I am confident of this, that he who be-

Great God of every blessing, of faithful, loving care, You are the fount of goodness, the daily bread we share. How can we hope to thank you? Our praise is but a start: Sincerely and completely I offer you my heart. Your Word is our salvation, the source of endless grace, In death and life extending your covenant embrace. In Christ we are one body; each member has a part;\: How can we hope to thank you? Our praise is but a start: Sincerely and completely I offer you my heart. Your Spirit is our teacher, the light that guides our search, Transforming broken people into the holy church. For feeding us with mercy, for wisdom you impart: How can we hope to thank you? Our praise is but a start: Sincerely and completely I offer you my heart.

gan a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6 The One who gave the gift will be faithful to nurture it and complete it. Along with that comfort also comes responsibility. The gift is given with a purpose—His purpose. What is God calling you to do? What good and perfect gift has he given to you? How is He perfecting it and completing that good work in your life? How will you gratefully give back to the Father of Lights? — Robert Norris

—David Gambrell, 2009

Bread makes up a significant part of the daily diet of people around the world; it is a staple food item for many. Every culture seems to have their own unique take on bread: baguettes, pitas, naan, pan dulces, challah, matzo, tortillas, biscuits, focaccia…even mass-produced, pre-sliced, American white bread lining the grocery store shelves in branded cellophane. Perhaps because of its ubiquity, bread symbolizes our need of sustenance, and thus bread features regularly in the Story of Scripture. The Israelites in Egypt, instructed to bake their bread without yeast at the Passover as God saves them from bondage (Exodus 12). God providing the Israelites with manna—bread from heaven—as they are wandering through the wilderness (Exodus 16). Future-king David, on the run from Saul, eating the Bread of the Presence from the Tabernacle (1 Samuel 21:1-6). Ezekiel baking a most-unusual bread while in exile, demonstrating God’s judgment on his people, but also his provision for their needs (Ezekiel 4). Bread demonstrates God’s love and care for his people: God knows what they need, and God provides for them, no matter their circumstances. Jesus uses bread in his teachings, parables, and miracles. When tempted by the Devil to turn stones into food, Jesus responds by quoting scripture: “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:1-4). When teaching his disciples to pray, he includes the phrase, “Give us today our daily bread” (Matthew 6:5-15). One of his amazing miracles involves breaking five loaves of bread and two fish, and providing enough food for 5,000 men (Luke 9:10-17). And…here in John 6, Jesus refers to himself as bread: “I am the Bread of Life.” Jesus—God in human flesh—knows our physical and spiritual hungering. Jesus knows that we need bread for sustenance: the Bread of the Presence, Our Daily Bread, the Bread from Heaven. When we are hungry, bread satisfies. God provided bread for his people throughout their history, supplying for them in their need and when they could not provide for themselves. Perhaps, then, it should be no wonder that at the last supper, Jesus speaks to his disciples—and to us too—“This is my body…take and eat.” What are you hungering for? Are you looking for the Bread that will truly satisfy? Prayer: Father, you are a good God who gives your children what they need. Give us today our daily bread—the sustenance for physical strength, and spiritual strength as well. Thank you for sending your Son, Jesus, the Bread of Life, who satisfies our hunger. Amen. — Dave Mulder, “In All Things”