First Congregational Church, UCC - Comments

SALLY O'DELL: Acts 28:23-31

nospam@example.com (SALLY O'DELL) — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 21:38:03 -0700

I had to really look at the book again to ponder what I had learned. The one thing that strikes me the most, is the story of each person. Paul, Peter and the others were so human. They had talents and problems, a call by God and yet had to work to make a living. I am reminded again, they are like me and all of us. Still their faith and struggles brought about a life changing message and healing to inidividuals and whole communities. I hope that is what my part will be as a new member of First Congregational. I am very challenged by this book, this is not an easy message! I need to do this prayerfully with others.

Bob Manning: Acts 28:23-31

nospam@example.com (Bob Manning) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 10:52:01 -0700

After praying and mediating while sitting on a stone bench in one of the catacombs while in Rome several years ago and reading the book of Acts this summer, I'm struck by these: 1. how doggedly these pioneers kept focused on faith in God in such threatening life experiences; 2. how they focused on community support (not just a "me-myself- and God" faith); 3. how the community shared ALL THEY POSSESSED for the benefit of all (much of which is lost today); 4. how the community clearly preached and taught faith in God revealed in Jesus in their TIME and PLACE (model for every generation); 5. how they simply told the story of Jesus and no wandering off into debating theological pet points. Thanks for this journey which has renewed my faith and reinforces that which really counts.

Debbie: Acts 28:1-10

nospam@example.com (Debbie) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 09:24:04 -0700

What struck me about this passage was how easily the natives jumped to conclusions! First Paul must be a murderer and then he must be a god! And it was a snake (always significant in Biblical stories!) that led them astray!

We're not all that different from the natives from Malta, are we? How easily we fall into the trap of condemning or worshipping people or things. And how quickly we change our position based on totally inadequate evidence. Our US presidents are some of our favorite targets. Bush is reelected in glory and goes out of office with ratings in the cellar. Clinton is a huge favorite and then Monica Lewinski comes along and he is condemned! And, of course, the Obama story is as yet unfinished.

We'd be much better off remembering that our worship is for God alone. God is the One who never changes.