Wesley United Methodist Church

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  Monday Musings

  Friday, I dashed into the store looking for toilet paper when suddenly, as I turned a corner, a small ghostlike creature jumped out in front of me and said, "Boo!" Startled, I let out a small scream and the creature ran down the aisle laughing. As they disappeared, I could hear a mother's voice telling the child to stop scaring people. I chuckled to myself and ended up leaving the store with an apple pie, fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and a Snickers candy bar. Distracted by not only the ghost, but all of the items in the store, I completely forgot to get toilet paper. I may soon regret this moment of forgetfulness, but the fried chicken and apple pie tasted delicious.

  Recently, I took an extended road trip across a wide section of our great country. I passed by and stayed in large cities and small towns. Several friends said they were worried for my safety. In my hotels, as I would turn on the tv in the evenings, the screen was filled, not with news, but rather with dark and scary campaign ads warning people about a certain apocalypse. Now, it is true there are a few communities less welcoming than other communities, but by and large, in my journey, I saw a country full of life, hope, and possibility. Even in the areas devastated by Hurricane Helene, I witnessed the goodness of people as power trucks, first responders, and other resources rushed into weather-battered communities to provide help.

  In a very similar way, I am blessed to witness the goodness of humanity each week in the churches I serve. Whether it be gatherings like Church and Chili at Cromwell UMC, Blessing of Animals at Wesley UMC in Hibbing, or Stories at the Stump at Hill City UMC, it is clear the church is very much alive. It is within these very gatherings that the love of Jesus is shared. Folks should not be scared away from church or believe those who say, "The Church is Dead!" My prayer this week is that we continue to gather as loving communities full of hope tethered to the love of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. 

  Grief Support Monday at 10:00 am

  Choir Practice 5:00 pm

  Pastor John out of the office.