Consider the blameless, observe the upright; a future awaits those who seek peace. - Psalm 37:37

Good morning church! Yesterday I was part of a gathering where we sang “O Little Town of Bethlehem.” No, this wasn’t an attempt to relive the joy of Christmas. Rather, yesterday was the day the church celebrated the life and memory of Phillips Brooks, the author of that famous song and famed pastor in his own right. The singing of that hymn was part of our celebration of the way God used Rev. Brooks, and part of keeping his life before ourselves as an example. 

The verse from Psalm 37 above implores us to “observe the upright.” This is the rationale behind keeping the memory of various saints alive and in our attention. As a boy I had paraphernalia of Will Clark and Nolan Ryan in my bedroom, they were exemplary baseball players for me. Everyday I was reminded of how I wanted to follow their example; to be like them. In a more profound way, the examples of St. Vincent, Phillips Brooks, St. Agnes (all marked this week), and others, function similarly. We observe their lives, not as examples of perfection, but as fellow travelers with Christ; a few steps ahead, having journeyed where we have yet to go. They are reminders of who we want to be like in Christ. When I read about the saints I'm often moved with the simple desire to know the love of God and to love Jesus like these ordinary people. 

A simple way to keep track of various famous saints is by using the Modern Liturgic church calendar, which we've highlighted before. The calendar highlights a few saint days each month. It's an easy place to start. May God grant us the steadfast faith of Agnes, the courage of Vincent, and may He form our minds so that we would mediate His truth with grace and power like Rev. Brooks. 

Below you’ll see a number of announcements related to life at COTC in the coming weeks. I wanted to highlight the opportunity to serve with ESL classes at Hope Clinic. This is an exciting and practical way to serve our neighbors in the name of Jesus, lasting about eight weeks and requiring a simple willingness to be present and engage others. Let me know if you’re interested! Also, Neighborhood Groups are starting up! These are a great way to share life with others on the way with Jesus. Reach out to a group leader directly or contact Nick to get involved. 

In Christ, 

Peter+