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If we listened deeper to this past Sunday's hard to hear Gospel reading, we heard a word of compassion; compassion that God has for his world and people. That is at the heart of the 10 commandments and Jesus' commentary on the commandments "You have heard it said, but I say...". Although on the surface these words sound a lot like judgment, as St. Augustine said, "Any interpretation of Scripture that leads to hatred or contempt of another is illegitimate. One must not leave an interpretation of Scripture until one finds compassion." It is that understanding that lies behind an effort begun by a former nun, Karen Armstrong, called "Charter for Compassion". (Visit www.charterforcompassion.org for more information about this movement.) It's also what lies behind a local initiative by many of us clergy in Vero Beach called "Compassion Vero". (Visit for www.compassionvero.org more information about this local initiative.) This is all just another way of living out the grace and mercy that God in Christ has shown to us. For more ways to help you live out that new identity we have as people who have been death with compassionately by God, check out our website at www.oursaviorelca.com. Have a blessed week and we'll see you in church! Pastor Jack Diehl + |
HOST FAMILIES NEEDED! Our Savior will be hosting 40 musicians of Lenoir-Rhyne College after their concert on March 16th. Please send a note to Music@oursaviorelca.com if you are able to help in this wonderful opportunity of hospitality. |
 The gospel reading for this coming Sunday is familiar to many people: let the evildoer strike also your left cheek; give to everyone who begs; love your enemies; be perfect. These commands in Matthew 5 are hard to hear. Come to worship to receive both these words and God's blessings of forgiveness. |
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