Summary of Service
Welcome & Community Updates
The service began with a warm welcome from liturgist Laura Z, reminding all that they are welcome at Bostwick Lake UCC, no matter where they are on life’s journey. Rev. Dr. Jonathan White shared opening remarks, setting the tone for a meaningful time of worship and reflection.
Several important announcements were shared:
- Cancellations: The Kids’ Food Basket service trip (February 17) and Book Club (February 20) were canceled.
- Office Hours: Adjustments were made to office hours, with further details in the announcements.
- New Staff Introduction: The congregation was encouraged to meet Sam, the new Children’s Ministry Coordinator.
Additionally, a moment of reflection was dedicated to those in the congregation facing illness, including multiple cases of COVID-19, upcoming surgeries, and those in recovery. Prayers were offered for individuals and families experiencing loss.
Call to Worship & Opening Hymn
The congregation opened in worship with the Taizé song “Come and Fill Our Hearts with Your Peace,” setting a contemplative tone. The call to worship, based on Jeremiah 17:5-10, encouraged trust in God rather than reliance on worldly strengths, likening those who trust in the Lord to trees planted by water, thriving even in drought.
The opening hymn, “Rejoice, You Pure in Heart” (New Century Hymnal #55), was a celebration of faith and joy in God’s presence.
Scripture Readings & Sermon
Psalm 1 – The Way of the Righteous
The first scripture reading emphasized the contrast between those who follow God’s ways and those who do not. The imagery of trees planted by water illustrated the strength and stability of those who delight in God’s word.
Luke 6:17-26 – The Sermon on the Plain
Jesus’ teachings in Luke challenged conventional understandings of blessing and woe. The passage offered comfort to the poor, hungry, and grieving, while cautioning those who were rich, full, and praised by others.
Sermon: When a Curse Becomes a Blessing
In his message, Rev. Dr. Jonathan White invited the congregation to reconsider the nature of blessings and curses, drawing upon Jesus’ teachings in Luke. Unlike Matthew’s Beatitudes, which focus solely on blessings, Luke’s version includes both blessings and woes, presenting a thought-provoking contrast.
Rethinking Blessings & Curses
The sermon explored the idea that what we perceive as blessings—wealth, fullness, laughter, and praise—can sometimes blind us to deeper spiritual truths. Conversely, hardships can lead to growth and transformation.
Using the work of philosopher Jacob Needleman, Rev. White emphasized how faith is a journey of self-discovery. Drawing from Immanuel Kant’s philosophy, the message highlighted the complexity of truth and the interplay between what can be seen and what must be understood through deeper reflection.
The congregation was challenged to consider:
✔ What if Jesus’ words of warning were not condemnation, but sorrow for those who fail to see?
✔ What if the call to faith is not about avoiding hardship, but about learning to see blessings even in struggle?
✔ How can we open our eyes to the deeper realities of life, beyond material success and comfort?
A key takeaway from the sermon was that faith is not about simplistic answers but embracing the complexities of life with trust in God.
Youth Message by Samuel Sanestin
Following the sermon, Samuel Sanestin shared an engaging Youth Message, offering a fresh perspective on how young people can live out the Beatitudes in their daily lives. Through relatable examples and personal insights, he encouraged the congregation—especially the youth—to seek joy in faith and service rather than worldly success. His message highlighted how young hearts can be open to God’s blessings, even in moments of uncertainty or challenge.
Prayers & Offering
A time of silent reflection was introduced with the repetition of Psalm 46:10:
“Be still and know that I am God.”
This meditative prayer guided the congregation into a deeper awareness of God’s presence.
Prayers were lifted for those in need, including individuals struggling with illness, grief, and hardship. A heartfelt appeal was made for unity and understanding, especially in a world increasingly divided by anger and misunderstanding.
The offering was dedicated to North Kent Connect, with donations requested for gas cards and canned protein for the food pantry. The previous week’s Souper Bowl Sunday collection had gathered 58 cans of soup for the community.
Closing Hymn & Benediction
The service concluded with the hymn “Glorious Things of You Are Spoken,” a triumphant affirmation of faith.
In the benediction, Rev. Dr. Jonathan White encouraged the congregation to walk in faith, recognizing that what may seem like a curse could, in time, reveal itself as a blessing. The final charge was to:
✔ See beyond surface-level judgments.
✔ Seek truth and understanding in faith.
✔ Extend love to both friends and those who are difficult to love.
Final Reflection
This service was a reminder that faith is not about avoiding life’s difficulties but finding deeper meaning in them. Just as Jesus challenged those who relied on material security, we are called to open our eyes to God’s greater purpose.
As the congregation departed, they were left with the powerful words:
“Woe to those who do not see… because they are missing the greatest blessing of all.”
