Philippians 4:1-9

Yesterday morning I had the opportunity to travel to Cannon Falls, MN to visit the people of St. Ansgar's Lutheran Church for their adult education hour. It may be one of the most architecturally unique churches in the synod. I learned yesterday it was built in 1969. Outside the church are all sorts of lovely trees! I had to snap a photo before worship yesterday. The changing leaves. Radiant.

At St. Ansgar's, they host an adult education forum once per month rather than every week. It sounds like this approach tends to boost participation and it prevents the planning folks from getting overwhelmed with responsibilities.

We explored the topic of interpersonal communications for our hour together. I am so grateful for the opportunity to dive deeply into this topic with people because it's something that impacts all of our lives (personal, professional, and congregational), but we rarely the chance to think intentionally about the helps and hindrances of good communication. It was a great morning!

For worship, Rev. Randy preached. The central text for the day was Philippians 4:1-9. It is a passage of encouragement from Paul to the people of Philippi. I hope it lends a little encouragement your direction today, too. Have a good start to a new week.

"Therefore, my brothers and sisters, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, my beloved. I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you also, my loyal companion, help these women, for they have struggled beside me in the work of the gospel, together with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you." - Philippians 4:1-9