Adult Education
Monday Morning Bible Study Resumes September 14
By Rev. Dr. Richard Herman
After a late summer break, the Monday Morning Bible Study will resume on the Monday after Labor Day — September 14.
The virtual Monday Morning Bible Study gathers from 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. each week to study the Lectionary Scripture texts for the following Sunday, so we can come to worship with our hearts and minds better prepared to hear and receive the Word of God, to engage in worship with readied spirits, and to receive the Sacrament with thanksgiving.
Facilitated by Pastor Richard Herman, a retired local Presbyterian pastor and friend of St. Matthew’s, the meetings also include prayer for those present and for other people and concerns, as well as time for fellowship and mutual encouragement — with lots of laughter sprinkled in.
All Are Welcome to Join
This is an open group that welcomes anyone interested in participating. Please contact JoAnn Lawrence to register your interest with your email address, so you can receive the Zoom link and the scriptural texts for the next study through a weekly email that goes out to all involved.
Lord — You Are the Watcher
Based on Psalm 121
Lord—You are the Watcher. You watch over me, like a parent over a child: to protect, to enjoy, to encourage me, so when I look over my shoulder, I see you watching. You smile and wave Your love and approval. I can keep going. Lord—You are the Watcher. Nothing escapes Your notice. You see it coming. If it’s too much for me, You act to intercept it. If it comes upon me, I know that You have brought it. I know that You have allowed it. Why? For my good, for Your good purposes in and through me. Lord—You are the Watcher. You do not get tired or bored. The intensity of Your alertness and the flame of Your loving care do not flag—they are constant. There is never a time when You turn away or close Your watchful eyes— You watch over me and my life, my comings and goings, my ups and downs, my pain and laughter, my joy and sorrow, all of it, “both now and forevermore.” Lord—You are the Watcher.
Written by Rev. Dr. Richard Herman, who leads the Monday Morning Bible Study on Zoom, resuming Monday, September 14. For info, contact JoAnn Lawrence.
Psalm 121
1 I lift up my eyes to the mountains – where does my help come from? 2 My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. 3 He will not let your foot slip – he who watches over you will not slumber; 4 indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. 5 The Lord watches over you – the Lord is your shade at your right hand; 6 the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The Lord will keep you from all harm – he will watch over your life; 8 the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and for evermore.