What kind of soil are you?
A farmer threw his seed onto all kinds of soil. Some was gravelly dirt, some full of weeds. But some soil was good, and the seeds bore a good harvest. This is the story Jesus tells us today – but what are we to make of it? It turns out, the story tells about both dirt and the opportunity of wasteful farming.
We are blessed by a wanton God, who throws around His lavish love onto good soil and gravelly, weedy dirt with the same generosity. Through Jesus’ sacrifice, and through the action of the Holy Spirit, anybody’s dirt can become good soil. How about yours?
Jesus said, “A sower went out to sow… (Some) seeds fell on good soil and brought forth grain.” – Matthew 13:3, 8
God promises a harvest beyond anything you could have imagined!
This time of year is the growing season. In the church, we see it also as a season of spiritual growth. So in these weeks after celebrating Pentecost – when God sent his Holy Spirit to Jesus’ followers – we reflect on stories that encourage us to follow the Spirit wherever it might lead us. Learn more about this Time After Pentecost.
Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 55:10-13; Psalm 65:1-8, 9-13; Romans 8:1-11; Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23. Read them here.
The Rev. Eileen Smith Le Van preaches today.
Happening at PEACE
- Contemplative Prayer – Change in the day! We now gather at 12:30-1 p.m. Wednesdays in the Conference Room. Experience deep peace and connection to the Divine in this 30-minute period of silence. Hear the “still, small voice” – really! Conducted by Pastor Eileen.
- Monday Bible Study – Meet from 1:15-2:30 p.m. Mondays in the Meeting Room with Pastor Eileen. We’ll read from the book of Acts.
- Earthcare Day Camp, our multi-church summer Bible camp, starts this week! It runs July 17-21, and all are welcome. Ask about a scholarship for your child or grandchild!
- Coming Up – Check out PEACE’s online events calendar.
Adult Bible Study
“Justice for the Poor” is a video series created by Sojourners, a ministry in Washington, D.C., that links Jesus’ life and teachings to ask, “What is our responsibility to care for the poor and to advocate for justice on their behalf?” For several weeks this summer, we will watch 20-minute installments and discuss the issues each one raises. Today, we watch “Is There Something Wrong with the Prosperity Gospel?”
The Adult Forum meets in the Old Fellowship Hall at 10 a.m., led by Pastor Eileen. Stop in the Fellowship Center around the corner to pick up coffee & baked goods!
Sunday School
Sunday School is on break for the summer! We invite you to come in the fall as we celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Reformation with fun stories about Martin Luther, told through the eyes of his children.
Youth @ PEACE is our all-ages Bible study, where young disciples learn the core stories of our faith and what it means to walk the Jesus Path. We welcome all who yearn to learn more about our loving, gracious Creator.
This week’s summertime Bible memory verse: “As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it.” – Matthew 13:23. Practice at home, then collect a fistful of Bible Bucks when we return in the fall.
Bible memory verses: Kids can earn Bible Bucks for verses they memorize and redeem them for cool prizes! Our goal is for young people to bring God’s word deep into their hearts, supporting a lifetime of faith.
Toddler Time
In the fall, we will resume our special program for the tiniest disciples. God invites ALL children, so bring your babies and squirmy tots for this fun program!