There is much to do this afternoon.  There is always much to do, calls to make, chores to tend to, projects to pursue, places to go.  And yet, the present moment, where I find myself now, is also worthy of attention.  On St. Philip's street sign is a quote from Denise Roy's book, My Monastery is a Minivan:  "If we pay attention, any moment or place or person might be the bearer of wisdom".  We are surrounded by blessings, by wisdom, by life.
Now I get distracted as often as anyone.  We get overwhelmed with crises at hand, challenges to face, and so forget the blessings we are given.  Pain or anxiety can crowd out other concerns.  And so it is immensely valuable to take time regularly to broaden our perspectives, pay attention to the beauty around us in nature, people, the mystery of being here now.  These fall days are wonderful opportunities to pause and feel the sunshine, notice the trees, sky, flowers, and most important to remember the people in your life.  Families are challenges, and marriages take work.  But both are gifts as well, and we neglect the blessings of family and relationships all too often.  No relationship is perfect, in part because we are not perfect, yet in spite of the trials, we learn and grow even through difficult times in our relationships. 
Jesus taught his followers to look at the birds and the flowers in order to remember God's grace and providence.  He taught us that the kingdom of heaven is like mustard seeds, yeast - small or hidden things which are nevertheless very significant.  The Christian tradition offers sacraments such as Holy Communion and Baptism to pry open our hearts and minds to God's grace and love around all tables and whenever we turn to God, our higher Power, to Jesus our Savior, or however you pray.  Church services, for instance, ought to open our hearts and minds to the wonder of life and to God's love for each of us here and now.
Every moment, every place we find ourselves in, and all the persons around us are opportunities to learn and grow in wisdom.  We don't have to create wisdom, but only receive it.  Take time therefore to rest, pay attention, enjoy your life and God's life within you.  It is OK to rest and enjoy God's blessings.  The wisdom we receive will recharge us for the facing of our challenges and the living of these days.
Amen.
Martin Yabroff

That which is the dearest to me is family. I come from a large family of brothers and sisters and it is the greatest source of pleasure to have them visit at holidays times and share good food and news and see each other's children grow and prosper.
Thinking about how much I love to share the good things in my life started me thinking about St. Philip's. It crossed my mind that this also is my family, God's family. Each week we gather to share the greatest bounty of all. We come to His table, encouraged each week by Fr. Martin with the same unconditional, open-hearted welcome. We gather after service to meet and share the news of the week. The kids run exuberantly round the Parish Hall, snacking on goodies, reveling in the company of friends. Teenagers in a huddle discussing who knows what. News of travel, news of work, news of happiness as well as sadness. Words of support, words of encouragement. Sounds like any typical family gathering to me.
The sharing of fellowship is what St. Philips is all about. There are few people who come through our door who fail to remark upon the friendship and the welcome awaiting each new guest. I feel a particular sense of pride when a friend or family member accompanies me to church.
I think about the first time I came to St. Philip's, some years ago. I have to confess that I was a little dubious as to what kind of greeting I might have; would I feel awkward or out of place, would I know what to do. But I needn't have worried. I was greeted as if I were an important visitor, and I left St. Philip's that day happy to have been invited. The rest is history.
As we continue the planning of the Harvest Fair, the Trivia Night, the Fellowship Groups and all the wonderful events as Christmas approaches, could I ask you to think of others who might be waiting for the same welcome and love as I received? I believe that there are many who are waiting for an invitation, be it to a Sunday service, or a dinner or an event.
Take a little time to think about a friend who could use this kind of love. These are not easy times. Divorce and unemployment rates are soaring. People are lonely, anxious, and looking for help, but often can see no further than a therapist. Perhaps you have a co-worker or an acquaintance, a new friend or a friend of a friend to whom your invitation could make all the difference. What a gift you can give in bringing someone to St. Philip's
Our church is made up of many great families, but we are one family. For those of us with brothers and sisters across the world, we at St. Philips are the parents and grandparents, the children and grandchildren. We learn from each other. We support, encourage' and share what we have with each other.
Please take a few minutes to think about who you could invite. Don't just think about it, do it....how about now? There is always room at God's table. Bring a friend!!
Lucy Gowan