Welcome to Chilmark Community Church of Mather’s Vineyard, MA. Our Church family is happy you are worshiping with us.
Today’s readings from both the Jewish and Christian Scriptures speak to us of change. Mark tells us that on the Sabbath Day the Rabbi Jesus went to the synagogue and the people were
astonished because he “ taught as one having authority and not like the scribes.” Mark continues by pointing out that there was a man with an unclean spirit among the worshipers
who cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth?
Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God.’ But Jesus rebuked him, saying, ‘Be silent, and
come out of him! ’
And the unclean spirit, throwing him into convulsions and crying with a loud voice, came out of him. All who were present were amazed, and they kept on asking one another,
‘What is this? A new teaching – with authority!’ At once Jesus’ fame began to spread throughout the surrounding region of Galilee.” Jesus did many things that were new and different. This was certainly a change from the ordinary!
What would you have said and done if this happened in your church? I am sure each of you would have reacted differently: some would have been happy for the man, some would have avoided dealing with the issue, some (like the scribes) would have become disgusted that this man was present and some would have totally rebelled against Jesus. Avoidance and being afraid of dealing with ministering to certain kinds of persons is a sign of insecurity and a lack of faith in God. When the children of Israel were afraid Moses told them that God would send
another leader like him (Moses) to teach them and show them what God’s will was for them. Are you overly concerned and afraid if you feel you are not in charge and control? Let us be
sure of one thing: God is calling us to ministering in all kinds of different ways and to all kinds of different persons. Remember the story of Jonah from last week. Jonah was called to go to
minister to the worst enemy of God’s people, Israel!
Be blessed as you worship the great God of challenge!
Sincerely,
Ernest Belisle
(Pastor)