The Apostle Paul is either appealing or appalling, or so says biblical scholar John Dominic Crossan. Come find out for yourself during our upcoming Challenge of Paul Sunday morning Education class. It's 8 weeks of the Apostle, learning his context and how the Roman Empire influenced his practice of Christian Judiasm. 

Challenge of Paul Sunday morning class begins July 8th in the Koinonia Classroom, just down from the church office. Class begins at 9:20 am. 

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The following post originally appeared on Rev. Beck's personal Facebook page. 

The biblical story of Joseph and his brothers, which spans many chapters in Genesis, offers insight to how Christians should respond to folks seeking better lives in new lands. (Scriptures are from the New Revised Standard Version.)

Genesis 45:4-11. Joseph, a man of influence in Pharaoh’s court, invites his father and brothers (and their families) to come to Egypt and escape the famine that had befallen the region. Joseph says it was God who initiated the plan for their safety.
45:7 “God sent me [Joseph] before you to preserve for you a remnant on earth, and to keep alive for you many survivors.”
45:10 “You shall settle in the land of Goshen, and you shall be near me, and your children, and your children’s children…”
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Genesis 46:1-7. God encourages Israel (Jacob) to sojourn to Egypt. Pharaoh also welcomes Jacob and his family by providing assistance for their relocation.
46:5 “Then Jacob set out from Beer-sheba; and the sons of Israel carried their father Jacob, their little ones, and their wives, in the wagons that Pharaoh had sent to carry him.”
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Genesis 47:1-6 Joseph presents his brothers to Pharaoh. Pharaoh invites them to live in the best part of the land and gives them jobs.
47:4-6 “They said to Pharaoh, ‘We have come to reside as aliens in the land, for there is no pasture for your servant’s flocks because the famine is severe in the land of Canaan. Now, we ask you, let your servants settle in the land of Goshen.’ Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, ‘Your father and your brothers have come to you . The land of Egypt is before you; settle your father and brothers in the best part of the land; let them live in the land of Goshen; and if you know that there are capable men among them, put them in charge of my livestock.’”

The long arc of the Joseph story is one of provision, welcome, and care. When given opportunities to help the alien and immigrant, Christians have many examples from scripture of how to faithfully respond.

Of course, the challenging next step in this story is that when the famine fully reached Egypt, Pharaoh bought all the land and enslaved the people. (47:20-26) 

Perhaps American Christians should examine the immigration practices of our states and communities for ways that "enslavement" is still perpetuated. Such areas include:

• systemic poverty
  
• anti-immigrant bias in law enforcement and the courts
  
• lack of access to basic resources of education, rights and healthcare

Let's strive to be better, Church. 

​The first epistle (letter) of John in the Christian scriptures is a reminder for the reader to take on the attitude of love. And during Eastertide, when our reflection on the resurrection of Jesus moves us toward our own actions, we should rightfully practice new ways of love and kindness. This can be for faithful Christians, an opportunity for growth in likeness of Jesus, and for the nurturing congregation.


What is required of us when we take a stance of love? What attitudes must we shed in order to more fully and genuinely love one another? What example of this love do we see in the resurrection of Jesus, and how do we encourage that same type of dynamic and powerful change in others?

This is not lightweight rhetorical questioning, for us to only ponder. We are called to examine ourselves, repent and change direction. And the author of First John is encouraging their readers toward that path.

This Sunday we start a new 6 week worship emphasis through the book of First John. As our surroundings warm and signs of new life continue to emerge, and as we continue to reflect on the meaning of Jesus' resurrection, let us be encouraged toward a renewed love of neighbor, stranger and sojourner. 

Be Excellent To Each Other, 


Rev. Andy Beck

These words from Matthew's account of the Sermon on the Mount (6:19-21) reflect Jesus' views on wealth and acquiring possessions. It's surprising to remember that he spoke these words to a mostly peasant-class audience, where wealth and status was only dreamed of. And yet he reminded them not to chase after the things in life that will ultimately go away. 

There's a humble attitude and outlook about Jesus that recalls our need to rely on God. Not just recalling that need, but modeling it for us as followers of Jesus. 

What better way to be humble than to serve others? Giving of ourselves through service, charity and money is an act of humility because we place part of ourselves out there for the benefit of others. That's what the Giving Tuesday campaign is all about. When we make efforts to build up the lives of neighbors and strangers alike, we also live into the way of Jesus, recasting his image in our own lives. 

I am excited about the opportunity that Giving Tuesday provides for non-profits. It enables us to reach out to a generous community on behalf of those on the margins, to advocate and work in support of better lives for all. I invite you to join in the generosity of Giving Tuesday through volunteerism or donation. To help Hillside reach people with Good News, click here. 

- Rev. Andy

Fall is my favorite time of year. The crisp air and the shorter days encourage me to drink more coffee and hot tea, to cook chili and potato soup. The turning colors of tree leaves gently and patiently move me toward the reminder to be thankful for the beauty of the earth, my place in it, and the sacredness of creation. 

It's also a subtle reminder of what is to come: the anticipation of Advent and the promise of God's presence with us through Emmanuel. Such an important reminder during these days of autumn's entry, that God's generous giving is shown in all seasons. From bountiful fall harvests of vine-growing produce and apples by the bushel, to Thanksgiving tables spread with a feast, we are made to share in abundance. 

Over the next few weeks, we will be talking more about abundance and generosity, and how those themes are hardwired into our lives as religious spiritual practices. Next week you will receive a letter detailing our annual Stewardship Campaign, "Journey to Generosity". I ask that you pray with me and our leadership team to bring awareness of God's will to our lives, that we may respond in gracious generosity and love. 
 

Be Excellent To Each Other! <>< Rev. Andy Beck