Both faith communities are celebrating All Saints this week, that time in the Church Year when we remember, and give thanks for, those who have gone before us. It creates a sacred and safe space to grieve, while at the same time holding our faith that life is eternal, that love is eternal, that the most important part of us is safe in the hands of God. We will visit the Apostle Paul's thought on this in 2 Corinthians, as well as the story of Jesus grieving the death of his friend Lazarus, even as he knew he would resurrect him. A complicated Sunday...a beautiful Sunday, just like human life itself.

We're back after a week away, and although we have different scripture passages and different themes, we have discovered that they heart of both tracks are the same...that action tells the story of what we value, and who we are. And in some ways, it really is a simple as that. Simple to hear, to learn, to know, yes, but the work of a lifetime to enact. So we accept the challenge, and live into a life that bears fruit.

Two stories today on the irreplaceable value of community - both from the Gospel of Luke. The first is a banquet with some unique invitees, after a first round of refusals. Which begs the question: what are we being invited to, now? And, knowing it doesn't last, can we value the richness of what's in front of us?

The second story celebrates a paralyzed man and his determined, supportive, creative, roof-breaking, rule-breaking friends, who will not stop until they get this man the help he needs. Jesus admires their faith - and this week we, too, will celebrate the good news of those facing similar challenges with courage and strength, the love and support of their families, and the compassion and creativity of their communities.