Last spring, when the soil was drenched and the promise of summer stood before us, I planted three tomato plants in the garden.  They were small and fragile, but healthy, dark green sprouts.  I remember thinking, "Can't wait 'til August!"
 

But the summer has taken its toll on my plants.  They don't look so healthy now; many of the leaves have turned brown, the branches are twisted and spread out, and in fact, some of the branches have withered and died.  And yet...amazingly...there are tomatoes!  Beautiful red tomatoes, ripened by the sun, and yesterday, became salsa!
 

Perhaps it's a weak metaphor, but there are days when we may feel like that tomato plant.  Our bodies have seen better days, our hair has changed color, our appearance isn't so attractive today, maybe our branches are not as strong as they once were.  But we can still bear fruit!  Beautiful, hearty, interesting, life-giving fruit, which benefits others. 
 

Jesus once told a parable about a fig tree that looked great...but it didn't bear fruit...and was at risk of being cut down.  "Give it another chance," the owner told the laborer, "see if it will bear fruit next season."  The point Jesus makes is that our purpose is not to go through life looking good, but to love God and serve people.  That's the fruit! That's the salsa!  Pass the Doritos!

Blessings for Fall on Sunday!

On Sunday, August 26, we'll be blessing the backpacks of children heading off to school and briefcases and computer bags for adults returning to their fall routine.  Bring your baggage to church next Sunday!  We would love to invoke God's presence in your vital task of learning, working, serving and growing!

"Welcome Back Sunday" on September 9th 
Summer worship times of 8:00 and 9:30 am.  Mission and Ministry Fair!
Also a photographer will be here at 9:00 am to take an "All Congregation" picture for the cover of the new pictorial directory - come early or stay later and be in the photo! 

Hear the sermon and join the conversation!
Come with your book suggestions and leave with some new ideas.  Everyone welcome!