A Pastoral Message from Reverend Shelley McVea for the 4th Sunday of Lent

In person services are suspended, but this podcast will continue to bring you the pastoral message and brief sermons recorded by Reverend Shelley.

The scriptures for Sunday, March 21, 2020 are:

1 Samuel 16:1-13: There are many ways to be blind. God commissioned the prophet Samuel to anoint one of Jesse's sons as the new king of Israel. It was a dangerous mission as Saul still reigned as king. Scared, yet obedient, the prophet arrives at Jesse's home. Yet he is blinded by the stature and attractiveness of the elder sons. God sees the human heart, however, and chooses David, the youngest.

Psalm 23: This is probably the most famous of all the Psalms. David's image of the Lord as our shepherd appeals to our need for security and serenity. David undoubtedly used his own care for his flocks as a basis for his poetry. From still water to darkest valley, the Shepherd will provide and protect in all circumstances. Maybe this week would be a good opportunity to ponder this psalm before you begin each day.

Ephesians 5:8-14: If we have been given the light of Christ, St. Paul invites the reader to live in this light. How does light manifest itself in a life? By living a life that is good and right and true. So wake up and let Christ shine on you and through you.

John 9: 1-41: The disciples ask the same question that the Pharisees ask when they see the blind man; “Who sinned? We hear the answer “no one” from Jesus' lips. He is much more interested in what He is going to do about it. He heals the blind man. Rather than rejoicing with the poor man that his misery is over, the religious leaders demand an explanation. (Jesus healed the man on the Sabbath). The man can't explain anything. He simply knows “once I was blind; and now I see”. That is enough for him. It is also the one thing that no one can dispute.

The Prayers for March 21/22, 2020, have been prepared for you by Gillian Eley.

Dear God, during this time of social distancing and lockdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic, please remind us that we are still connected to one another and to You, and graciously hear our prayers.

Heavenly Father, You are our best source of healing. Cast the light of health and well-being on those who have been exposed to coronavirus – those who have contracted the disease, and those who will contract it in the future. Bless them, protect them and bring them speedily to full recovery. Bless all who are ill with healing of body, of soul and of spirit. Comfort the loved ones of those who have died.

Keep us, Lord, under the blanket of Your mercy in this time of uncertainty and distress. Sustain and support the anxious and fearful, so that we may rejoice in Your comfort, knowing that nothing can separate us from the love of Christ.

Dear Jesus, You taught us to love our neighbours, to care for those in need as if we were caring for You. In this time of anxiety, give us strength to comfort the fearful, to tend the sick, and to assure the isolated of our love, and Your love, for Your name’s sake. Remind us, Lord, to watch out for the needs of others who may not be able manage their own daily needs.

Father, hear us today as we pray especially for,

The Church of the Providence of Uganda

The Mississauga Deanery

St. Andrew, Alliston; St. Andrew, Japanese; St. Andrew, Scarborough and for St. Anne, Toronto

St. Monica’s

Faith Community Church

All our neighbours living, working & playing in the area bounded by Danforth Avenue, Gledhill Avenue, Lumsden Avenue and Westlake Avenue.

Joanna Keddy and family, and Michael Kielbiski

All those living and working at Main Street Terrace

The Bread of Life program at St. Saviours, and all those who are affected by the closing of food banks

We pray for hospital staff, medical researchers and people working in long-term care facilities. Gracious God, give skill, sympathy and resilience to all who are caring for the sic(continued)