Wisdom

This Sunday I will be preaching on wisdom using Proverbs 8 as the scripturally foundation.  The Lectionary actually breaks it up to two sections but I am using the entire chapter.  I remember in seminary preaching from this text for class.  What struck me then as well as now, was the importance of wisdom in our lives.

Wisdom is more than just knowledge but has a very practical context.  If one is skilled in some task, one is considered wise.  With our bible study of James and our sermon series of the Jesus Priorities: 8 Essential Habits, I am reminded that we are called to continue to seek out Wisdom wherever she may be found.  Proverbs 8:17 reminds us that if we seek her we will find her.  Also verse 35 states those who find her find life and gain favor from the Lord.

In what way are we seeking wisdom in our lives and in our church?  I would hope that with the summer series, we can seek Lady Wisdom.  If we are going to have life, we need to remember that we don’t have all the answers and that we have to work together with her to find the inspiration that we seek.

Tuesday May 7th

As I sit in my office and begin the process of reflecting on scripture for Mother’s day, I had read on Facebook a letter to a pastor about spending so much time on recognizing mothers that those who are not mothers tend to avoid coming to church that Sunday.  Having gone through two still births with my wife, I know how difficult it can be to have reminders thrust unmeaning into one’s face.  I have often thought how can we honor women who have been so important in our lives without constantly talking about the joys of motherhood.

I have heard the platitudes about all of us have had a mother so that we can honor our mothers.  Yet, what about mothers who were not nurturing, who were abusive, who were physically and psychological absent.  Also what about mothers who are mothers of children that are not theirs biologically.  Or what about our aunts, teachers, pastors, who have guided us in our growing years.

The United Methodist Church has attempted to answer somewhat these concerns by call this coming Sunday the Festival of the Christian Home.  The attempt is to address all people and be inclusive rather than honoring a few.  Personally, I feel this is not the answer but am challenged to find a way of honoring all of those important people in my life who have been women .  This Sunday I will be using a litany for Mothers that I found on the GBOD (Global Board of Discipleship) website which I feel speaks more directly about women.  A cop out would be to ignore the whole issue and just preach on the Ascension of the Lord.  Instead I will with God’s help address the whole issue of honor and remembrance.

I believe all women whether mothers, aunts, grandmas, teachers, preachers, doctors, nurses, stay at home, business owners and workers, be honored this Sunday and every day of our lives.  For without you we would not be.

Pastor Eldon