A defining characteristic of the Christian community is that we are a people on a journey. We are neither wanderers nor tourists. We are pilgrims, on the way. We’ve been given “a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Peter 1:3), and we look “forward to the city that has foundations, whose architect and builder is God” (Hebrews 11:10). In our baptism we are inducted into this grand pilgrimage, and at the Lord’s table we receive the bread and wine as food for the journey.
Our goal in the coming year will be to encourage one another to keep our eyes on the prize, to shape our conduct by this living hope. We will begin with the Psalms of Ascent, sometimes described as a devotional or songbook for pilgrims, but all year long the theme of pilgrimage will inform our life together.
In the fall, this all-church focus will include:
- Small group Bible studies on the Psalms of Ascent. Sign up at the designated table in the café. Download the study guide here (PDF).
- A sermon series on the Psalms of Ascent, beginning Sept. 11.
- Copies of Eugene Peterson’s book A Long Obedience in the Same Direction for sale for $15. This book provides an insightful chapter on each of the Psalms of Ascent. Purchase a copy at the designated table in the café, and read each chapter ahead of the corresponding sermon.
For more information, contact Janice McWhertor, Minister of Congregational Life.