Volume 2 Issue 24

The stench of life’s sordidness can never blot out
the fragrance of God’s pardon.
The weeping of human betrayals and the tears of broken hearts are
arrested again and again by the tender mercy of God
who is ready to forgive every returning prodigal
and forgive every repentant sinner.
--Peter Marshall, “The Robe, the Ring, and the Fatted Calf”
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It is both an honor and a privilege to be invited into this moment of your life by way of this cyber-ministry. Thank you! I pray that your time spent here will be a source of meaning and inspiration. If such is the case, I hope that you will remember to share this site with others who will also benefit from the experience. I am happy to mail hard copies of each week’s newsletter and sermon to those who do not have access to the Internet; I just need to be provided with the address. My thanks once again to those who have chosen to financially support this aspect of the Growing in Christ ministry.
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At long last, the Bulletin Board is catching on! Just this month there have been a variety of opinions posted, not to mention thoughts of inspiration and courage. There are also links to some other powerfully beautiful sites. More than the sermons, this form of sharing by the members of this virtual congregation is what Growing in Christ is all about. Thank you to those who have chosen to take the time to share with the rest of us who are invited to partake of the enrichment made available there. I look forward to “approving” many more future submissions.
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This coming Tuesday, November 25, will mark the “after-Ramadan celebration known as the ‘Eid ul Fitr’ (Festival of the Fast Breaking) [which] is the most popular holiday in Islam. For obvious reasons, being released from monthlong dawn-to-dusk fasting can make people quite happy. The first day of the ‘Eid’ begins in the mosque with a special morning prayer service, which consists of a short congregational prayer followed by a two-part sermon reminding people of the lessons they should remember from Ramadan for the rest of the year. The ‘Eid’ festivities officially last for three days, and Muslims hold parties on each of the days. In some places carnivals are held. Special ‘Eid’ sweets are prepared, and children are given gifts.” (Yahiya (.J.A.) Emerick, “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Understanding Islam”, 2002, Alpha Books, Indianapolis)
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Before we jump to judgment about how fanaticism has corrupted the above celebration for our Moslem brothers and sisters, let’s be sure to take the time to examine how we Americans of all faiths will be observing Thanksgiving Day only two days later. As the whole people of God, we will do well to remember that we have so much more in common than we have differences.
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Finally, our daughter Rebecca will turn seventeen on November 28. She may happily receive your birthday wishes at: beccascreename@aol.com
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Until next week…….Shalom!