Slideshow image
Good morning:
I am working in my home office this morning, and I happen to have the news on my TV in the background. In case you haven't heard, the major news story all weekend is the Supreme Court overturning the Roe Vs. Wade decision made some 50 years ago. This has only served to further divide our country, and there is "chaos" all around with protests and "talking heads" across our social media and television platforms. I will not be preaching about it, nor saying much publicly. If this is something you want to discuss privately with me, I am more than happy to do that.
There is, however, a common theme I've heard multiple times. And, as a dad of a daughter whose upset over this, I get it. That theme is along the lines of a woman's right to choose. I get the issue is deep and wide and many have strong, strong opinions. 
But in general, choice is such a wonderful freedom we have in our daily lives and most certainly in our spiritual lives.
Every Sunday morning, you have a choice on whether or not to come to church. You have a choice to pray, or not to pray. To attend events, Bible studies and the like. We have choice in our spiritual life. I pray you and I can choose to support any woman we know facing the tough decisions about pregnancy/abortion and the like. We know of God's infinite love for all. As you think daily about your choices spiritually, I pray you "choose" Jesus! I pray you "choose" your church, to pray and to have love, forgiveness and grace for each other. I am so blessed and glad you choose to come to church, and I invite you to reach out and bring a family member or friend with you. 
One of the first Bible verses I recall about choice comes from Joshua: "Chose this day whom you will serve, but for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!"  (Joshua 24:15). 
=========================================================================================
TOP THREE THINGS TO KNOW FOR THIS LAST WEEK OF JUNE:
1) A blessed July 4th weekend for you and your families! If you travel, please remember your church in your giving. We will have our regular services July 3rd and sing some of our national hymns!
2) Everyone is invited to the celebration of Ed Bailey's 50th anniversary as Music Director at St. Andrews Lutheran. A luncheon will be held on July 10th, following the worship service. 
3) Faith Lutheran Food Pantry, Friday the 1rst, 5-7 p.m. Volunteers always welcomed and needed. 
To God be the glory, join me in choosing Jesus!
Pastor Doug