Pastoral Ponderings – September 2025

Therefore, put on the full armor of God,
so when the day comes, you will be able to stand your ground. 
Ephesians 6:13

Hello Church Family!

It is hard to believe I am writing this newsletter, and it is nearing the end of August. I hope you all had a wonderful summer!

A couple of weeks ago, my grandson was rummaging through the fruit bowl on our dining room table. I do not know why but some strange things get thrown into the fruit bowl. It is hard to know if the children are digging for fruit or if they are hoping to discover a treasure. One never knows what will be found —     a Lego person, a domino, a matchbox car. These items end up in the fruit bowl because they are things I pick up off the floor and put in the bowl. It is a safe stop and ensures Mike and I do not trip on them or puncture our foot stepping on a little car or toy. The fruit bowl is a sublet of our junk drawer; it is like a junk drawer on the table (if you do not have a junk drawer or do not know what one is, please see me).

Somehow a little wooden cross found its way to the bottom of the fruit bowl. I honestly do not know where it came from. When my grandson found it, he held it up gleefully and said “Church!” My grandson has not been attending church for very long, but he sure knew where to find the cross.

My hope is, as he continues to come to church, he will come to know more about the love, hope and protection offered to us through Christ.

The scripture from Ephesians about putting on the whole armor of God is an important passage for parents, grandparents and guardians to consider when thinking about a commitment to Sunday school.

If our children know our church, the message of love found in the teachings of Jesus will remind them that they are protected from the cruelty and distractions they will face out there.

Today’s children face unimaginable challenges. If they know love and community, as it is found at Marlborough Congregational Church, they will receive the best and most beautiful armor to help get them through life.

Pastor Val