November 1, 2026: Do As I Say, Not As I Do? (All Saints Day)
Matthew 23: 1-12

Rev. Dr. Leslie Taylor, preaching

Have you ever heard — or perhaps used — the phrase, “Do as I say, not as I do”? Most of us have likely heard it at some point, and hopefully, we have only used it in jest. Yet, it gets straight to the heart of the message Jesus shares in Matthew 23:1–12.

This scripture invites us to hold up a mirror to our own lives. Do we know what Jesus calls us to do, yet find ourselves behaving differently? Do we hear the commandments and truly choose to embody them in our daily interactions?

This week, as we step into November, we find ourselves at a crossroad of reflection and action:

In Our Civic Engagement: As we prepare to cast our ballots, we are invited to ask: Are our choices reflecting the heart of Christ? How do our actions and votes care for our neighbors, lift burdens, and promote humility and justice in our community?

In Our Remembrance: As we honor All Saints’ Day and remember the loved ones who have passed away, we consider the legacies they left behind. Are we actively honoring their memory by carrying forward their traditions of love, grace, and faith?

We have choices to make and many voices competing for our attention. May we listen closely to our true Teacher, aligning our actions with our faith so that our lives preach the gospel long before we ever say a word.

The way we worship is the way we live.

Worship is the work of the people, bringing together our fullest selves in a communal act of love and gratitude.  Each voice is important; each person is valued as the Spirit draws out our authentic gifts and talents, shared in the ever-widening circle of God’s people.  We hope you’ll join us this week as we gather to worship the God of extravagant welcome.