Caring for ALL People

As you know, the Supreme Court ruled last week in a case that essentially overturned Roe vs. Wade and returned the abortion debate to states rather than the federal government. I mentioned the United Methodist Church’s stance on abortion in my blog post a few weeks ago. However, I wanted to share our bishop’s letter about this decision, shared last week. You can find that very powerful statement here.

As we continue to live in this nation with political divisions, I remind you that there is no winner and loser in this ruling. Behind every law, every Supreme Court decision, every new headline, there are people who are trying their best to live their lives faithfully. Teenagers with their lives ahead of them. Women in abusive relationships. Women who carry guilt from an abortion years ago. Men who helped their girlfriend get an abortion. Couples who desperately wanted their baby who had no heartbeat. Spouses who must decide between the life of mother or baby. Doctors who are trying to care for their patients. These are people. Not issues.

Our task as a church is to see the people. We must move beyond the “issues” and see the people who are hurting and waiting for the church to speak a word of hope for them. We must move beyond the “issues” and actually care for the people who are affected by this law and the next law and the next one. Look beyond a sign at a march, and see the people. Listen to the people and hear what they are facing. Learn what their needs are and how we can respond. Our task as a church is to change the world by caring for all people. We do that when we help all people experience Christ and the freedom that Christ brings to live an abundant life.

To change the world, we must care. Let’s take the first step to caring by praying. I invite you to join us online or in person at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday as we pray for our nation and the world. The “land of the free and the home of the brave” needs our prayers. So does Ukraine. So does the Philippines. So does NATO. Let’s pray for the people who are hurting here and around the world.

Then, we must be people of action. If you’re relieved that abortion is now illegal, what are you doing to care for those affected? If you’re distressed by this decision, what are you doing to care for those who are affected? How are you caring for others? That, and only that, can change the world.

See you soon.
Pastor Lynn

WORSHIP SCHEDULE

• 8:30 a.m. Traditional service in Sanctuary and child care in Rm 15
• 10 a.m. Traditional service in Sanctuary
• 10 a.m. Youth and children’s Sunday School and child care
• 10 a.m. Livestream premieres on YouTube and Website

To access our livestream service:

• From the main menu on our website click “Worship.”  -OR-
• Go to YouTube and search for UMC St. Mark’s Oro Valley or use this link.