Tuesday Tidings, June 16, 2026

Dearest Members of Bethlehem,

“Let’s see how inventive we can be in encouraging love and helping out, not avoiding worshipping together as some do but spurring each other on, especially as we see the big day approaching.” -Hebrews 10:25, The Message

Worship is such a regular and important part of my life, and has been for such a long time, that it is easy for me to take my time in the sanctuary for granted. I shouldn’t. In fact, I want to take a moment today to celebrate and give thanks for just a few of the many benefits we garner from regularly gathering for worship (whether in-person or online).

First, worship affords attendees a sacred “place” to call home. Whether it is your first Sunday or if you have been here for fifty years, you will be welcomed. You will be afforded the spiritual space to be, and the spiritual space to be yourself. The gifts you bring to the table will be honored, while a place the table is set just for you. Relax, settle in, and feel the warmth of Christian love.

Second, an opportunity for heartfelt “praise and thanksgiving.” It is far too easy to assume that we are the center of the universe. As children of God, it is critically important that we keep our Triune God at the center of our lives. The prayers, the hymns, the lessons, and even the offering give us a glorious moment to look beyond ourselves to the Savior that sustains us and the neighbor that need us.

Third, an abiding sense of “purpose.” Every worship experience ends with a derivative of, “Go in peace, serve the Lord. Thanks be to God!” It’s a beautiful reminder that each week we are gathered in for worship and sent out for service to a weary world. What a gift! Worship consistently reminds us of who and whose we are and what we are to be up to in the world.

And finally, “peace.” When the risen Christ met the disciples following the resurrection he greeted them with these memorable words, “Peace be with you.” Christ continues to offer this blessing to those followers that are gathering in this day and age. Attendance at worship affords us meaningful assurance, a sense of  God’s presence, and a reminder of all the promises that God has kept. See you in church!

Question for reflection: Why is regular worship attendance valuable to you?

Yours in Christ,

Pastor Dan

Gracious God, may we love your Son enough to learn of his Way. May we love Jesus’ Way enough to live the teaching. May we live the teaching in such a way that others would see the deep value of your Love. May everyone be transformed by your grace in such a way that the whole creation would be renewed. In Christ’s name we pray, amen.