Friends,

For the past two weeks, in both our Sunday School and in sermons, we have been reflecting on the parables Jesus told in chapter 25 of Matthew’s gospel. These are the assigned lectionary readings for these past weeks, and are the focus of the curriculum, Feasting on the Word, that we use each Sunday morning at 9:30 a.m. In addition, these parables are the focal point for the Matthew 25 initiative of our denomination. As Kimbol reminded us, PCLT became a Matthew 25 congregation in July of this year. So the parables in this chapter of Matthew’s gospel serve as inspirational stories as we seek to live out our call as a congregation of the PCUSA.

This upcoming Sunday we will continue in chapter 25 of Matthew’s gospel, looking at the parable of the sheep and the goats (Mt 25:31-46). The Rev. Lemuel García-Arroyo will lead our Sunday School Zoom discussion at 9:30 a.m. Rev. García-Arroyo serves the Presbyterian Church as a Mission Engagement Advisor. He’s part of the Mission Engagement and Support team that assists congregations and individuals to deepen their engagement in mission and to respond to the Matthew 25 vision to be actively engaged in the world. He is no stranger to PCLT, as he has preached and led worship several times over the past few years. We are pleased to welcome him back with us again.

Then, at 11:00 a.m. during worship, my sermon will reflect on this parable and how it might be calling us to live out our witness as a Matthew 25 congregation. I look forward to engaging this important scripture with you!

Peace,

Pastor Jack