Dear Church Family,
Several of you have sent me pictures of where your Epiphany “star gift” words are posted in your house and have mentioned that the word you received just seemed to be right for you.  They have been a good reminder of God gifted quality you needed in your life at this time.  One person said it has helped him be more open to seeing God’s presence in every day occurrences.  That is the idea--that focusing on these big words, “faith,” “encouragement,” “hope” might help shape our character or attitude toward life. I’m glad some of you have been finding this little exercise profitable. 
It has long unsettled me that Christians, who profess to follow the same Lord, and take their cues from the same sacred writ, can often differ so vigorously on ethical and lifestyle issues.  Sometimes of course, this comes from a highly selective reading of the Bible, rather than grappling with its wide and varied perspectives.   We pick and choose those parts which fit our preconceptions and downplay what doesn’t fit with our prejudices.  But our disagreements can also be a prod to growth. 
We’ll take a stab on Sunday to explore this reality.  The sermon is “Why Can’t Christians Seem to Agree?” and the texts are Joshua 24:13-18 and Ephesians 4:1-16. It being the first Sunday, Communion will be celebrated. 
See you in church.
Rich