Questioned by the Pharisees, Jesus declares the two greatest commandments are the first and the second was the discussion given by the Rev. David W. Collin, III, pastor of the Karnes City St. Paul’s Lutheran Church on the 19th Sunday after Pentecost.

Jesus countered the Pharisees with the question of “What do you think of the Messiah” Whose son is he?” Thus he was able to demonstrate the Messiah must be more than the son of David. From that day did anyone dare to ask any more questions?

What kind of love is being discussed in this? Could this be love as in the modern union, love American style, as portrayed in the soap operas of bed hopping? Instead the love displayed should be a loving kindness and compassion to God, not a sacrifice.

Relations with one another should be Christian; Prophets had begun to follow tradition to specific situations, as specified in their book of 613 commandments. Follow in one direction thus allowing us to be like we hope to be in showing our love for our Lord and our neighbors.

The Holy Scriptures, read by Sandra Dickens, were taken from Leviticus, Psalm 1, I Thessalonians, and the Gospel of Matthew 22: 34-46.

Prayers were given for all who are sick, whether in nursing facilities or homebound, especially Elroy Seeger, Lillian Lyssy, Elisabeth Boetler, and Allen Cordaway. Condolences and sympathy is extended to the family and friends of Steve Schultz, Vicki Schultz, Alfred Treybig and Betty Welch who were called to their heavenly home. A prayer for rain was given to return the earth to its state of greenness and glory.

The Women of ELCA have scheduled St. Paul’s Annual Bazaar on Saturday, Nov. 12 from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. The bazaar will feature bake goods, clothing, bedding and pillows, knickknacks, toys, books, dishware, jewelry, Afghans, and Christmas holiday items. A portion of the profits will be contributed to aid the victims in East Texas Wildfire Relief.

St. Paul’s will be hosting the 5th Quarter on Nov. 4 after the Karnes City home game. There is a need for donations to purchase needed food and supplies as well as donations of cookies.

St. Paul’s Youth Group will be having two more bake sales on Nov. 5 and Dec. 3 in front of Wal-Mart. Money is being raised to fund going to 2012 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans.

Visitors for the Sunday service with Gibbons were Robert’s parents, Laquita and Bobby.