At this time of year, in Bloomington and other college towns, many folks are paying attention to basketball. When I was in college, I went to both women’s and men’s basketball games (St. Mary’s and Notre Dame). I also bought student Notre Dame football tickets my freshman year, because it was the thing to do. I was then reminded how cold it could be, and let my tickets go the next year. However, I remember the energy at the football games with the crowd, the band, and the occasional person, in the end zone, standing and holding up a large sign with the Bible verse ‘John 3:16’.
I don’t know when end zones became favorite locations for these sign holders, but they do garner attention. John 3:16 (NRSV version) reads “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.” This verse is interpreted in multiple ways, including by some as a threat and a warning. However, we are reminded that this scripture passage is rooted in the first words, “For God so loved the world . . .” In the midst of the complications in our world today (with wars, starvation, racism, climate change, acts of violence and complicated elections), how might we embrace our world, and all that live and breathe upon it? We are called to do so, and are reminded that it is still the world that God so loves.
We’ll explore this together in worship, on this 4th Sunday in Lent. The Chancel Choir, directed by Gerry Sousa and accompanied by Ilze Akerbergs, will lead us in music. We will greet one another, and the children with welcome us into worship with the ringing of the bells. There will be a Children’s Moment. We will pray, reflect, and give thanks. Craig Stewart will lead us in our Time of Prayer. Marcia Lloyd will read our scripture passage from the Gospels (John 3:14-21). The sermon is titled, More than a Sign and an End Zone: Discipleship in our Contemporary World.
Remember to Spring Forward with the time change early Sunday morning. Blessings to all who are away for Spring Break.
If you have been part of the St. Mark’s community for a long time, a short time, or will be joining us for the first time, we look forward to connecting with those of you here in-person or joining on the livestream.
To connect to our livestream worship Sunday morning,
click the link on our website www.smumc.church.
The service starts at 10:30am. Livestream starts at 10:25am.