September 9, 2020 

Hello, church! SUNDAY, SUNDAY, SUNDAY! In person worship resumes Sunday. Don’t forget to RSVP!  

I share here my prayer for the week: 

Lord God, almighty and everlasting Father, you have brought me in safety to this new day: preserve me with your mighty power, that I may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; and in all I do direct me to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen. 

Peace, 

Chess 

Kiva 

Years ago, I was introduced to Kiva when reading the book Half the Sky. Kiva is a micro-loan organization that, in their own words, “empowers underserved people to achieve their dreams by crowdfunding loans and unlocking capital.” I recommend you check Kiva out for a couple of reasons. First, you might sometimes think that you don’t know where to start with helping people who need it, and Kiva makes it easy by connecting you directly to people who need help. Secondly, Kiva is more than just a micro-loan organization; they are on the front lines of helping oppressed people rebuild. If you use Kiva’s search and filter features, you can quickly find lots of people who are trying to financially rebuild after years of war, oppression, trafficking, and more. Considering the Bible’s extensive calls for justice, help for the oppressed, and benevolence for the least (Matt 25), Kiva is a great opportunity to get you connected to those who need help in a simple, easy, and even affordable way. Check their about section here to see more about how it all works, and I hope you will consider lending your support. 

Family Activities 

This week our Fruit of the Spirit is Peace.  Here are a couple of resources for you to talk with your kids about peace.  The first focuses in inner peace and the second on peace with each other.  Enjoy!   

As you prepare for this Sunday’s worship 

Included here are the scriptures, reflection questions, and prayers that are thematically matched to our Sunday worship outline. 

Scriptures: Exod 14:19-21, 15:1-11, 20-21; Ps 114; Matt 18:21-35; Rom 14:1-12 

Questions for Reflection: 

Forgiveness is a hard thing. When has someone forgiven you? Is there someone you need to forgive or ask forgiveness?  

Morning Prayer:  

Gracious and loving God, thank you for this day. Strengthen my resolve to love and show mercy throughout the day. Lead my feet to your holy dwelling place, and guide the work I have to do for today. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. 

Evening Prayer:  

Merciful God, thank you for keeping me in the safety of your arms and for new mercies and the glory you showed through the day. Keep my family and me through the night. I thank and praise you! In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. 

 

Previous Links 

Below are the links to resources I have mentioned in previous emails for your continued reference: