For the last few years, singing the hymn “Draw the Circle Wide” (by Gordon Light; Arr. Mark A. Miller) has become a familiar response to both General Conferences and Annual Conferences of the United Methodist Church. Some have lifted their voices as expressions of joy and hope, others with tears and feelings of lament and loss, and others, still, with mixed feelings that tumble over each other in the heart. As part of a global denomination, an Annual Conference, and a local church (all with great and complex diversity), how might we draw the circle wide?
How might we draw the circle wider, still, in our call to nurture, love, and care for all of God’s children, and the whole of creation? For, if we feel we deserve it or not, God still continues to have faith in us. This Sunday is recognized as Ascension Sunday. In Acts 1:1-11, Jesus assures his disciples, that even if he is not physically with them, God’s Spirit will come upon them and be with them. They must be patient and wait in Jerusalem.
It can be hard to wait, but they do. Then, before their eyes, a cloud appears and takes Jesus up to heaven and out of their sight. They are still gazing up at the sky, when suddenly two individuals in white robes are standing by them. They say to the disciples, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking up toward heaven?” (Acts 1:11) As Biblical scholar, F. Scott Spencer notes “Their focus is to be outward, not upward.” That is to be our focus, as well.
We will explore this more in worship, on Sunday. Early in the worship service, we will greet one another, and children are invited to ring us into worship with the bells. We will pray and reflect, sing hymns, and share a Children’s Moment. The intergenerational Chimes Choir (directed by Lois Leong) will play “Jesus Loves Me”. Jonathan Michaelsen will lead our Call to Worship and Jeff Huber will offer a Moment of Sharing about CASA. The Chancel Choir will lead us in music, accompanied by Lois Leong. Stephanie Conklin with share a solo. The scripture passage (Acts 1:1-11) will be read by Grace Hillman. The sermon title is “Draw the Circle Wide, and Draw it Wide Still”.
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 live stream.