We are in relationship with the church in the long haul. Indeed, we might argue that the only way we can make it for the long haul is together. This saying sums it up: “If you want to fast, go alone; but if you want to go far, go together.” We are in community as we journey, especially for the long haul.

Abbreviations:

UMH - United Methodist Hymnal
W&S - Worship and Song
TFWS - The Faith We Sing

Theme hymn suggestions are as follows:

Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah UMH 127
You Who Are Thirsty TFWS 2132
Lord, Whose Love Through Humble Service UMH 581
There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy UMH 121

Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost, Year A

Our task is one of invitation and celebration, of grace and openness, even as we live out a life bounded by the law of God. We invite the world to the banquet table. We show by our hospitality and our grace that we understand the depth of the call to be people of the law of love. The long haul makes it hard to sustain the party atmosphere, which is why we need the whole community to come alongside.