Posted on by Rev. Ryan Grace

The Melting Pot

When I was a child, American History textbooks proudly proclaimed our nation is a “melting pot” of cultures – a place where people from all different backgrounds melt together into one unified country. Yet, these days, the differences between people seem to cause more division than unity. Many people are filled with prejudices and suspicions that prevent them from spending time with people whom they perceive to be different from themselves. These divisions are not only counter to the best sensibilities of our nation–they are antithetical to the gospel itself. In the book of Matthew, Jesus teaches many lessons about hospitality to strangers through meals. So, this January, I am going to explore some of the things Jesus teaches through food in Matthew, examine the meaning of meals in Christ’s day, and practice building relationships over literal melting pots. To do that, a few people from the church have agreed to teach me how to prepare some of their favorite family recipes. (They will have their work cut out for them, since I am a terrible cook!) I invite you to join us for The Melting Pot: Eating with Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew.

Weekly Bible Readings

  • Matthew 9:9-13           The Call of Matthew
  • Matthew 14:13-21       Feeding the 5,000
  • Matthew 22:1-10         The Parable of the Wedding Banquet
  • Matthew 25:31-46       The Judgment of the Nations
  • Matthew 26:26-30       The Last Supper

The Pastor’s Study

  • Pastor Ryan will dive into the meaning of meals in the age of Jesus each Wednesday from 7:00-8:00 p.m., online and by phone, beginning Wednesday, January 4.

Maize Manor Market

  • There will be NO Maize Manor Market this January.

Church Breakfast

  • Stay after worship for fellowship and food on Sunday, January 29, 11:00 a.m. – NOON.

Spiritual Challenge

  • Cook and share a favorite family recipe!