Today In Worship
Sunday, February 22, 2026
Sermon: NOT Fine: Witnessing What Matters
Liturgist: Rev. Dr. John Regan, Executive Minister
Preacher: Rev. Dr. Chris Shorow, Senior Minister
We Share Our Gifts
We Hear the Word Proclaimed CLICK HERE for today’s Scripture
Reflection
Our faith tells us to love our neighbor as we love ourselves, but if we are honest, that is often easier said than done. When the lawyer asks Jesus, “Who is my neighbor?” he is really asking about limits. Who is inside the circle of my responsibility, and who is not?
Jesus answers with a story set on a dangerous road. A wounded man lies in need - people pass by because the road is risky and stopping could cost something. Then a Samaritan approaches, someone shaped by deep mistrust and rivalry. He kneels, binds wounds, shares what he has, and promises to return, shifting the question from “Who qualifies as my neighbor?” but “Will I choose to be one?” Sure the road is dangerous and fear is understandable. But as Kate Bowler gently reminds us “we are people learning to live by love and not by fear.” The Samaritan takes a small, courageous step toward love.
Neighborliness rarely looks dramatic. It might look like crossing the room to introduce yourself. It might look like listening instead of correcting. It might look like tending to someone’s wound, or it might look like asking why the road is so risky in the first place. Small acts, practiced consistently, begin to reshape the road we all share.
Wondering Questions:
Who feels like a stranger to me right now?
What would it look like to take one small step toward neighborliness this week?
We Gather at the Lord’s Table
Jesus didn’t put any rules around coming to the table, so neither do we. All are loved and embraced here and all are welcome at this table of Love. Our communion bread is gluten free. We come forward to the table to receive bread and cup at 9AM, we pass the bread and cup at 11AM. Please place your empty cup in the rack on the pew back. If you are worshipping from home, we invite you to find bread and juice or other elements to use as we share this feast.