Song of Solomon 2:8-13, James 1:17-27 and Mark 7:1-23.

Your guess is as good as mine at this point as to why the Old Testament reading is this one from Solomon’s Song of Songs! A lot about love but, upon first reading, sure looks like the “romantic love” between a couple!

We will work to bring this together with Jesus’ stern address to the Pharisees about their “traditions of the elders” which tended to emphasize outward observance of cleanliness to the neglect of purity within. And James insists that “true and faultless religion” is that which cares outwardly for “widows and orphans.” And this will all come together on a Holy Communion Sunday! Pray for me as the preacher and for the scripture readers and for the music leaders!

At least as you read these scriptures you will see how interesting and challenging Bible reading can be! Love, cleanliness within, and practical religion are spelled out and show us the way the Beloved One would have us follow.

It’s a lot to take in but people should leave worship encouraged to faithfully “live into” the daily Christian’s walk. And know where we are to ask for forgiveness when we don’t!

Thanks for your prayerful help heading into Sunday morning!

Pastor Barry