Friends in Christ,
I read the Parable of the Persistent Widow this morning. (If you need a refresher, read it for yourself in Luke 18:1-8.) After telling that story, Jesus says this:
And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth? (Luke 18:7-8)
Jesus assures us that our prayers are heard, and our God will answer in righteousness. Yet, his closing question seems to wonder if God's people will continue praying until the end. Will we pray despite the seemingly unanswered prayers? Will we pray even when we feel ignored, like the widow before the unrighteous judge?
Join me in this prayer: Jesus, I'm sorry this faith of mine is small and cautious. Please strengthen my faith and grant me boldness in your Spirit. Grant me persistence like the widow in your story, and impudence like the man banging on his neighbor's door at night Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner. Amen.
(For the impudent man, see Luke 11:5-8. For the next line in the prayer, see Luke 18:9-14).
Here for you,
Matt Behrens, Pastor | | Worship This Sunday
We gather in the sactuarry at 9:00am this Sunday. The printable worship below is provided for those who might worship at home, or those who would like a print copy as they follow the service. | | Can You Help?
Jan Curler and Margie Luehrs are looking for some help with altar guild responsibilities. If you can help on a rotating basis, please contact Margie (510-852-3059) or Jan (510-506-2581). This group takes care of the flowers, candles, and altar dressings for each worship time. | | | The Marriage Course
After Pastor Matt and Sherrah went through this course, they wanted to bring it to more people at Calvary and in the Bay Area. Now it's available for you and your friends. Sign up for yourself, or share this invitation with a friend. The Marriage Course is private, self-paced, and available online now. Click below for more information. | | | Women's Bible Study Has Moved
Join us on Wednesdays at 3 pm, starting May 5 on Zoom to study the Sermon on the Mount. No study book necessary, just bring your Bible!
Use the Zoom link below, or use the meeting ID: 879 3186 2678
and password slz. If you have questions, contact Sherrah at 512-658-8614 or by email.
| | | The Truth Project
The Truth Project study group meets in-person following Sunday worship. Videos and discussion will take place in the sanctuary immediately following worship. If you have questions, feel free to contact Dave Schultz by email or phone (510-507-5634) | | | Received this By Forward? Want to Sign Up?
If you received this email from a friend and you want to be added to Calvary's email list, use the link below. Welcome, friend!
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