17-May-26 (Acts 1:6-14)

Jesus wanted us all to recognize that we are intended to be one. We are intended to recognize those things that link all of humanity together as brothers and sisters. We are intended to demonstrate God's love in love for each other and love for all others.
One of the best ways to demonstrate that love is to be there for people who are suffering, those who are hurting, those who are sick, those who are dying; to be there for people who are in need, of food, clothing, shelter, or just a safe place to stay; to be there for people who are forgotten by society and those who have been mistreated.
Of course, there are ways that we can do that by investing our own time and presence and we should consider what forms of ministry we can participate in in that way. We can also give our resources, to send others in our place to extend those ministries even further.
That's what the offering is about: giving of our resources to demonstrate that we recognize that all people are our brothers and sisters.
The deacons will now come and collect the offering for today.

Prayer:

Please join me in an attitude of prayer.
God of all, God of each and every one, we thank you for Jesus, who showed us how to recognize our sisters and brothers in all people. Help us to give freely of ourselves and our resources to demonstrate the love for all that we have found.
Bless these offerings that they will be used in further demonstrating your love.
We pray in the name of our Christ and in the oneness he prayer for us. AMEN