The scripture passage this Sunday is based on 1 Samuel 3: 1-10. God calls a boy named Samuel, who is under the tutelage of Eli, an older priest whose sight has grown dim. God calls to Samuel in the night. Samuel believes it is Eli calling him. Eli tells him he did not call, and to go back to sleep.
The third time Samuel hears a call and comes to Eli, the old priest recognizes that it is God calling Samuel. Eli tells Samuel to “Go, lie down; and if he calls you, you shall say, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.’ Samuel doesn’t come to the realization of his calling on his own. He is guided by those who raised him, and others who walk with him on his journey. They recognize promise and possibility within him.
The same may be true for many of us. Who, and what experiences, have guided you in life and where you may have felt a calling? We will explore this together, and the connection of our reflections with the life and calling of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and others who inspire us.
In worship, we will first gather and greet one another. All children are invited to ring us into worship. The Chancel Choir, accompanied by Lois Leong, will lead us in music. There will also be a Children’s Moment. We will pray and reflect. Sam King will read our scripture passage. We will also have the blessing of celebrating the baptism of Lyla Grace King, daughter of Travis and Sam. The sermon title is inspired by words from Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel “Finding our Calling: a Pilgrimage of the Heart.”
If this will be your first time visiting with us, or you have long connections at St. Mark’s, we’ll be delighted to connect with you at 10:30 in the sanctuary. Should you choose to join online, visit www.smumc.church at 10:30, and click on the Livestream banner.