July 5, 2026 – "What Goes Around" – Rev. Dr. Sam Parkes

July 5th marks the 6th Sunday after Pentecost. This week, in the sermon series,

"The Wrestler", Rev. Dr. Sam Parkes' sermon "What Goes Around" will focus on

Genesis 29:15–28.

The strategies we use to get what we want have a way of becoming the strategies others use against us — and God does not always rescue us from the consequences of the world we helped create. God is working even in the reversals. The twenty years Jacob spends in Haran are not a detour from the promise. They are the promise being worked out in the only material God has: the complicated, resistant, beautiful mess of actual human lives.

Notes from the Bench

As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence this weekend, today's music invites us to give thanks for our nation and for God's faithful guidance in our lives.

Our prelude, Meditation on 'My Country, 'Tis of Thee' by Wheldon Whipple, offers a quiet reflection on the familiar patriotic hymn. For the anthem, Jeff Harris sings Come, O Thou Traveler Unknown, joined by Laura Tongring, flute, and Mark Knappenberger, cello. Written by Charles Wesley, the text is inspired by Jacob's wrestling with God and reminds us that faith often grows through life's struggles. This message perfectly complements our current sermon series.

The offertory, Dale Wood's arrangement of This Is My Father's World, celebrates God's presence throughout creation. The hymn was inspired by author Maltbie Babcock's favorite phrase before taking walks: "I'm going out to see my Father's world."

Our closing hymn, America (My Country, 'Tis of Thee), and the postlude, my arrangement of America the Beautiful, express gratitude for our country's blessings while reminding us to seek God's grace and guidance for our nation.

May today's music inspire gratitude, hope, and trust in the God who continues to guide us.

Come join us at 9:00 a.m. as we Worship Together this Sunday. We hope something in this music and message uplifts and strengthens your spirit. You are always welcome here.

📺 Watch the full service here: Link

📖 Download the bulletin: Link