Last week I noticed that there was a voicemail on our land line. I listened to the message; it was from the Social Security Administration. Yes, I know, a scam. The woman with the very pleasant, but serious, voice informed me that my Social Security account had shown fraudulent use and I must call them immediately or my account would be frozen. She gave me the phone number to call, then repeated the seriousness of this, and again repeated the phone number. She then said, “Have a nice day” and hung up. I had to laugh. If I believed her, which I didn’t, how could I possibly have a nice day knowing my Social Security account was compromised? It was a mixed message. We receive a lot of mixed messages in life. We can receive them at home, at work, in stores or anywhere we go. The job that says “you are the most important part of our company” and then cuts your benefits, or the spouse that says they will love you forever and then says I want you to change, or the clerk that can’t help you but urges you to come in again. But there is one who will never send us a mixed message. Matthew 11:28-30 Jesus said, “Come to me all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

John 13:34-35 A new command I give you. Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.  By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.

Lord, be with us in our daily lives, be with us in our comings and our goings. Be with those who are grieving, those who are ill, those who cry out for your comfort and peace. Be with the strangers in our midst, be with those who seek shelter, be with those who hunger and thirst, those who are lost. May we be the hands and feet of Christ in this world. Be with our church, may we be a beacon of light to those who seek to know you.  Be with our Pastor and with our staff and our leaders. It is in the name of Jesus we pray. Amen

Grace Epperson