“A happy agnostic” is how Milton describes himself most days. There is a lot he says he doesn’t know. “Mostly,” he says, “I’m just trying to stay behind Jesus.” This quote is from Milton Lewis’ sermon on Sunday. You can watch it by clicking on the link below. Milton and Sallie have been members at Woodland for the past few years. Before retiring, Milton pastored Northern Hills UMC. Now, we get to benefit from his wisdom and friendship.
It’s not just about humility. This is about openness to the new thing God is doing.
Humility is good. But admitting our lack of certainty and allowing mystery to master our mindset helps us stay open to the Spirit’s leading. St. Anselm said theology is “Faith seeking understanding.” We should seek to understand while remaining open to the mysteries of faith still unfolding within us and around us. Follow Jesus with openness to wherever he leads, remembering that following him means we will not remain where we began. That may sound scary at first, but it’s something we inevitably (if we answer that call) end up thankful for later.
We’re coming into the season of Thanksgiving. Let’s get it started. Our Woodland Thanksgiving dinner is this Sunday, November 15, at 5 p.m. Get your tickets now. Information is below. There will be food, fellowship, and a short service— all in the sanctuary. We’ll give thanks together. Don’t miss it.
Tonight is our first Singles fellowship dinner organized by Sharon Sutton. All ages of singles are welcome. Meet in the Atrium at 6 p.m.
On November 18, I’ll be preaching at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church’s Hope & Healing Service. If you’re free that night, I invite you to come and join me for the service. It will be an hour-long service and a great opportunity for our churches to be together.
The proposed budget passed on Sunday with a vote of 67 yays to 1 nay. Many thanks to our Finance Committee and the work they have been doing to prepare us for next year.
We are finalizing plans for Advent and Christmas. Look for calendars for the Advent season to be available on Sunday. Check below for a link to the calendar PDF.
Grace and peace,
Garrett Vickrey