In her book, “What Do We Know” (2002, De Capo Press), poet Mary Oliver shares a lovely and thoughtful poem titled Gratitude. Each section begins with a question to help pay closer attention on our journey: What did you notice? When did you admire? What astonished you? What was most tender?
On this Sunday before Thanksgiving, our scripture passage comes from the Hebrew Bible. Psalm 100 is a familiar song of praise and thanksgiving. When we say or sing the words, we become part of large diverse community of faith that stretches across time and place. The generations that came before us, and journey with us now, have known times of great joy and times of hardship. We are not alone.
Individually and together, we are invited to pause and pay attention in the spirit in which Mary Oliver poses her questions. When we do, we may notice ways God’s love is moving though our lives and in the world, that we had overlooked, and for which we give thanks.
We are grateful to be able to share time in worship this Sunday. Our service will include pictures of thankfulness that some of you sent, inspiring music including hymns and a solo by Brianna Murray, accompanied by Nara Lee, a children’s moment including a special time of sharing from Aaron Comforty, prayer and reflection, and reading of the scripture passage from the Mitsdarffer family (in English) and sung by Aaron (in Hebrew). The sermon title is “Watch Out for Glimpses of Grace along the Journey”. If you have been part of the St. Mark’s community for decades, or will be joining us for the first time, we look forward to connecting with you on the Livestream at 10:30am on Sunday!
Visit www.smumc.church and click on the Live Stream banner.