Imagine Together: Dedicating Ourselves and Our Work to God

Rev. Dr. Leslie Taylor, preaching

During September and October, we have examined the book of Nehemiah. In summary, Nehemiah was a Jewish leader and trusted servant of a Persian King during the exile. He was permitted to return to Jerusalem and take on the impossible task of rebuilding the walls and gates of the city. Rebuilding the walls symbolized the physical construction of the “building” and the spiritual formation of the faith community. Nehemiah was met with doubt, fear, and opposition almost from the beginning. However, despite all the challenges, Nehemiah and his people had faith in God and did what was impossible together. They completed the rebuilding of the walls and the gates in 52 days because the people had a mind to work, and they were committed to completing this work for their faith community.

In October, I invited us to “Imagine Together” what God can do through us as we use our heads, hands, and hearts to respond to God’s love for us and our church. I invited you to pray for our faith community, asking, “O God, how do you want to make yourself known at this time, in this community, through this church?”

This week is Commitment Sunday. We are invited to make our commitment to our church with our heads, hands, and hearts - our time, talent, and treasure. During worship, we will bring our commitment cards forward with our regular tithes and offerings. This is a time of celebration! We have an opportunity to give thanks for all God has done and will do in our lives, in our community, and through our church! We can continue to imagine together what God can do through us as we prepare for 2025.

Based on Nehemiah 12:27-30

Music this week:

• Totally Available

• Everyday

• Eagle’s Wings

• I Will Celebrate

• Called as Partners in Christ’s Service

• River of Mercy