Weekly Missive

May 22, 2025

At the River

May 25, 2025 - Sixth Sunday of Easter
Acts 16:9-15 | Psalm 67 | Revelation 21:1-10, 22-22:5 | John 14:23-29

This Sunday is the sixth Sunday of Easter.  The lectionary texts are Acts 16:9-15; Psalm 67; Revelation 21:1-10, 22-22:5; and John 14:23-29

Water flows through two of these passages. As you are worshipping here this Sunday, I will be in Santorini.  A few days later, on Wednesday, I will travel to Phillipi where Paul met Lydia in Acts 16:9-15.   In this passage, Paul has a vision telling him that he should go to Macedonia. He goes and spends a few days in the city of Philippi. On the Sabbath, Paul and Silas went to the river outside the city to find a place to pray. Upon arriving, they join in conversation with a group of women who are there. Lydia is one of the women they meet. Lydia, as the passage tells us, is from the city of Thyatira, and is a dealer in purple cloth. After hearing Paul and Silas speak, the women are filled with the Spirit. Lydia and her household are baptized, and then she invites Paul and Silas to return home with them to share the gospel with their community. 
 
It is a peaceful image, gathered by the river, sharing the faith and welcoming one another in Christ’s name. The waters of the river flow and provide a place for baptism and renewal. The Spirit of God flows through conversation and conversion, and lives are changed.
 
Water continues to flow as we read through portions of chapters 21 and 22 of the Revelation of John. This passage takes us to another time, an image of the end and beginning, a new heaven and new earth. The writer reminds us that on that day, tears will be wiped away and the river of life will flow, bright as crystal. It is an appropriate passage to read as we come to the end the season of Easter and prepare for Pentecost and new life. The crystalline waters of the River of Life flow freely from the throne of God, brilliant as day, brighter than any lamp at night.
 
Then, in the midst of these images of water, we encounter the words of peace that are in the gospel lesson for this Sunday.  This is a passage that is very familiar.  “Peace I leave you, my peace I give to you.” There are similarities in the message of peace and of the flowing waters of life. Christ reminds us to “not let our hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.” Fear can overwhelm us, yet, we are told over and over, “Be not afraid.”
 
On this Memorial Day weekend, with graduations and remembrances happening, having passages of scripture that speak of calming waters and peaceful life in Christ is a welcome gift. Too much is bombarding us right now, take time to gather at the river, (or for me – the Mediterranean, to talk with others about faith, and to find that peace that is possible through faith in Christ.

If something comes up while I am away, please let the office know.  If there is a pastoral emergency while I am traveling from May 22 until June 3, Rev. Philip Chryst will cover emergency pastoral care.  If you need him, please contact our office at 910-270-4648 during office hours (Monday through Thursday, 9am-2pm.) or call John or Peggy Harris at other times.  They will reach out to Rev. Chryst.  Their numbers are as follows:

Harris home number:  910-270-4780.

Peggy's cell: 910-547-6581. 

John's cell: 910-520-4042

Grace and Peace

Pastor Debbie

Seeking Employment!!  Music Director Needed  HUMC is seeking a part-time Director of Music to lead and grow a Christ-centered, inclusive music ministry. The role includes leading the Chancel Choir and Praise Band, coordinating worship music with the pastor, and engaging musicians of all ages and skill levels. 20–25 hrs/week. See Pastor Debbie, or a member of SPRC if you are interested.

VBS Registration Opens Soon!

Mark your calendars! VBS will take place July 28th-August 1st.  Volunteers are needed!  Volunteers and Participants can register via a link on our Church Facebook page or on our Website beginning now!  Stay tuned for upcoming announcements and meeting dates. Feel free to contact Jaime Alberti at humcyouth@hampsteadumc.org, or 910-524-1712 if you have any questions or would like to help. Your prayers and support are appreciated!