“What Have You to Do with Me, Jesus?” - Sermon for January 26, 2020

What's the worst thing about demon possession? Is it that demons are spooky and threatening in an Anne Rice or Stephen King kind of way? In today's sermon, Rev. Tom describes how the evil influence of demons terrify us most because of their control over our lives, forcing us into self-destructive actions and separation from others - a situation that is just as familiar in the modern day as in Jesus' time. By curing the demoniac, Jesus performed both an individual act and a commentary on the wider society. To the first listeners of the story, the "Legion" of demons who retreat into a herd of swine would be an obvious representation of the Roman army - an outside controlling force as gruesome as any demon nightmare. As Rev. Tom describes in two modern stories, the demons of alcoholism and racism can also possess us and force us to live "among the tombs." But these demons can be overcome. The way of Jesus is to come to the sick where they are, to overcome the fear of their presence, and to show how much the Lord can work in their lives - in acts of mercy and words of love.
(Bible reading - Mark 5:1-20)
Children & Youth Peace Choir
Second Presbyterian’s Peace Choir returns in 2020 to prepare “Hosanna”, an original composition by Peace Choir & Handbell Director, Beau Lochte. “Hosanna” includes parts for singers, ringers, and percussion/solo instruments and will be premiered on Palm Sunday, Sunday, April 5. Rehearsals will begin Sunday, February 9 following the Time with Children (around 9:20 am) and will take place in Smith Hall. For more information, email Beau at [email protected].
GEDCO CARES Valentines for Sale
We have made lots of lovely Valentines as well as birthday cards, thank you notes, etc. and will sell them on Sundays, January 26, February 2 and 9 after worship to support GEDCO CARES food pantry. Join us after worship on February 16 from 12 Noon to 1:30 PM to make more cards! Bring a lunch.
Souper Bowl of Caring
Youth of all ages will be collecting canned goods for CARES Food Pantry and dollars for Manna House before and after both Sunday worship services on February 2.  Each year, Second collects hundreds of dollars and cans to help feed some of the most vulnerable in our city.