AN EDITION OF THE UNITED METHODIST REPORTER
Two Sections, Section A • 076510 • Vol. 157 • No. 24 • October 15, 2010
in this issue
2
More Assistance For Persons with Hearing Loss
3
Awaken
5
All Saints’ Day
M
Before you read the remainder of this column, answer for yourself the following question: What is it that you most regret? Do you have your answer? Cornell University studied just this question. After surveying university employees, students, retired professors, and nursing home residents, they found that twice as many people were bothered more by things left undone than by what they had done. Missed opportunities were the most common of all regrets. Most regrets were from those who were unwilling to take chances, rather than from those who took chances, and made mistakes. In the 14th chapter of Matthew, the disciple Peter calls out to Jesus from the boat, thinking he sees Jesus out walking on the water. He cries out, “Lord, if it is you, tell me to come to you on the water.” He knows that Jesus wouldn’t call him to stay put. I believe God generally calls us to step out in faith. Yes, God wants us to be prudent, of course, but too often we call ourselves prudent, when we are really just plain afraid. We want a sure thing, a promise of success, a clearly defined road forward. Unfortunately, these are seldom forthcoming. So we simply turn away with a sigh, and wish things were not as they are. One of my favorite contemporary Christian songs includes these lyrics: But the waves are calling out my name And they laugh at me Reminding me of all the times I’ve tried before and failed … But the voice of truth tells me a different story The voice of truth says, “Do not be afraid!” Is something you are pondering, something you feel God is calling you to do, but something keeps you from taking that step. Are you asking, Should I? Could I? Is it possible? I wonder... Maybe it is time to do more than ponder, and instead to step out of the boat.
Step out of the Boat
S
TANDING ON THE PROMISES, the 2011 stewardship emphasis theme, is about God’s covenant with us to be God’s treasured people. As St. Luke’s members, we acknowledge our part of that covenant when we recite the Loyalty Vow, promising to support St. Luke’s through our prayers, presence, gifts and service.
continued on page 2
St. Luke’s United Methodist Church 3471 Westheimer at Edloe P.O. Box 22013, Houston, Texas 77227 713-622-5710 www.stlukesmethodist.org
The United Methodist Reporter (USPS 954-500) is published weekly by UMR Communications, 1221 Profit Drive, Dallas Texas 75247-3919. Periodicals postage paid at Dallas Texas and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to The United Methodist Reporter. PO Box 660275, Dallas, Texas 75266-0275.