The mystery of God’s ways is sometimes hidden from the wise and intelligent. Jesus associates with the lowly and outcast. Like Paul, we struggle with our own selfish desires and seek God’s mercy and forgiveness. We gather to be refreshed by Christ’s invitation: “Come to me, all you that are weary.” Gathered around word, water, and meal, we find rest for our souls.

• The Caring Committee is collecting school supplies for Glen Burton School through July. The school has provided a list of its most-needed items for the upcoming year, including notebooks, composition books, tissues, dry erase markers, and pencils. Monetary donations are also welcome and help provide food for teachers during Parent-Teacher Conferences and Teacher Appreciation Week. Thank you for your generosity and support! Learn more!
• All members are invited to attend a Special Congregational Meeting on Sunday, August 2, at 9:45 am in the Sanctuary or via Zoom. The Congregation Council will present a recommendation from the Property Committee to remodel the sanctuary bathrooms at a cost not to exceed $35,000. Copies of the proposal are available in the church office. Questions may be directed to Property Committee Chair Mark Burkhart. Read more!
• Longing to Grow? Plant Yourself in Good Soil! Registration is now open for the GIF/Diakonia Foundation Year. Grow in faith through this online ELCA learning program. Begins August 25.  Zoom classes Tuesdays, 6-9 pm. Learn more and enroll at www.diakonia.education. Find out more!

Readings for next week (7th Sunday after Pentecost)

Isaiah 55:10-13

Psalm 65:[1-8]9-13

Romans 8:1-11

Matthew 13:1-9,18-23

Prayer Requests password: stjohn