Today we hear about a man healed by Jesus and we gather around the table to remind ourselves that we are one family in the Body of Christ. We begin with our scripture from the gospel of Mark, chapter 10, verses 46 – 52: The disciples are travelling on the road – their journey has been a long one and they’ve encountered many needy folks on the road – the rich young man (whom Jesus tells to sell his worldly goods); the disciples ask “who is the greatest?”; and Jesus predicts his own death and rejection. It has been a long journey, and they are still “on the way.” Our scene takes place as finally they arrive in Jericho and encounter a blind beggar on the roadside.

Take note of the place of Bartimaeus: he is typically sidelined - on the side of the road. We may see this story as another example of Jesus helping those on the metaphorical (and the literal) margins of society. But it was also the best place to be for beggars, strategically located outside the city gate to appeal for help to passers-by. This was the place to be – for Bartimaeus and for us – in the path of the One who can help! And what did he do?

Let´s find out by listening to this dynamic message.

Thank you to Lindsay Mitchell for reading our scriptures, Bob Wilson for our Intercessions, Pastora Krista for leading the Service and her thoughtful sermon, and José Cueto for recording the service.

Today we encounter two disciples with “delusions of grandeur,” wanting positions of power in the new Kingdom of God. How often have we ourselves sought after glory instead of focusing on the humility of service. As we rejoice in the majesty of Jesus the King, let us also remember the Jesus who was born in a manger, washed the feet of his followers and died that we may live. Today, we are again talking about discipleship, as James and John are asking Jesus for a bigger role in the movement. Now, many of us came to the faith because of our parents, because we were expected to attend church and we inherited our faith. But some of us made a decision - a conscious choice - to follow Jesus. And for such a decision, maybe making a “pros and cons” list would be helpful, but Jesus gives us some advice in Luke 14:28-29:

For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it will begin to ridicule him. Often, we - like James and John - ask God for what we want and God responds, “Do you know what you are asking?” So, what is it we are asking? Find out by watching today´s Service video. Thank You to Davy Young for reading our scriptures, Pastora Krista for her Intercessions, leading the Service, and her beautiful sermon, and José Cuto for recording the service.

Today we come together to give thanks - to pause our busyness and notice the gifts around us, the joys of our living and the abundance of opportunities, experiences and people we have in our lives. As the food donations demonstrate the blessings we will share with others, let us share our joy and gratitude to God.

German theologian Meister Eckhardt famously wrote: “If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is thank you, it will be enough.” Today we celebrate Harvest Thanksgiving – the ritual of pausing and remembering all while expressing our gratitude to God for the twists and turns along those life-journeys.

Let us approach this day, this week, this life with a heart full of gratitude. Even when we are going through difficult times, let us open our eyes to those who care for us and be grateful. Harvest Thanksgiving is an opportunity for us to express our gratitude to God.

Thank You to Alan James for reading our scriptures, Rick Boyle for the intercessions, Pastora Krista for leading the Service and her insightful sermon, and José Cueto for recording the service.

Today we come together to open ourselves to God. Like the young man in scripture we ask, “What must we do?” How can we grow in our discipleship? How do we embrace the call of God and face the challenges ahead?

Like the rich young man, Jesus looks into our hearts and loves us. Jesus wants the best for us, for OUR sake and for the sake of our community. May we follow the God who so willingly provides for us by caring for our brothers and sisters. May we risk our own comfort to love and protect and nourish others. May we, as followers of Jesus Christ, reach out to others with mercy, justice and compassion and may we love others as God loves us.

Thank You to Helen Tudor for reading our scriptures, Rick Boyle for the intercessions, Pastora Krista for leading the Service, and her insightful sermon, and José Cueto for recording the service.