Random Thoughts

“I thank my God every time I remember you …” (Philippians 1:3)

Along with this prayer of thanksgiving for all of you from Philippians 1:3, this prayer is on my heart this morning:

New every morning is your love, great God of light, and all day long you are working for good in the world. Stir up in us desire to serve you, to live peacefully with our neighbors, and to devote each day to your Son, Our Savior, Jesus Christ the Lord. Amen.

As I prepare to retire at the end of June, I find that each day I am more and more grateful for you – the people, leaders and staff – of St. Mark’s. I’m grateful for all we’ve been able to do in Jesus’ name over these last 11 years. My heart is full of gratitude for your cards, gifts, and words of love and support, and for last Friday night’s parade and the retirement video. I am sad and happy all at the same time, full of joy and anticipation at what God will yet do in and through you at St. Mark’s.

This Sunday, June 13, I’ll continue the series on “Jesus and Love in the Ten Commandments” with a focus on the seventh commandment, which is “Thou shalt not commit adultery.” Although I’ll not be explicit about the commandment in the message, I want you to know that I’ll be talking about faithfulness, including fidelity in our marriages and other relationships.

Remember that you can continue to watch recorded worship at 9:45 a.m. We also have two in-person worship services: 8 a.m., no registration required. 10 a.m., registration required. Registration for June 20 – which is my last Sunday with you – will open at 8:30 a.m. this Monday, June 14.

Our Genesis Team continues to meet every week to discuss and make plans for a progressive reopening of our campus for worship, classes, small groups, increased office hours and much more. Many thanks to the Genesis Team for its faithful and hard work this past year and a half.

New every morning is your love, great God of light … As Art and I hiked early this morning, I took in the newness of the day, the still cool air, the sounds of birds and beating of my heart. All this tells me that God stands on the side of life and I am so very grateful for that.

Blessings,
Sharon

Three ways to access our pre-recorded service:

• From the main menu on our website click WORSHIP
• Go to YouTube and search for UMC St. Mark’s Oro Valley or use this link.
• The YouTube link will also be shared on Facebook St. Mark’s UMC Tucson or use this link.

The service will go live at 9:45 a.m.