What is the definition of “right-of-way?”
How do we know when to yield and when the right-of-way is ours?
What did Jesus have to say about right-of-ways?
The fifth edition of Living Our Faith, which opens Sunday, August 24, will help each of us with all these questions. And more.
The term “right-of-way” refers to the legal right of a driver, pedestrian, or cyclist to go first in certain traffic situations. At least, that is how we most often think of the term, that is, with reference to traffic laws for automobiles. However, more generally, right-of-way is a legal right of passage over another person’s ground. It stands to reason, then, that this can apply to situations other than those we encounter while driving. In either case, in our society it is important to know the rules about who has the right-of-way.
During Living Our Faith’s five weeks, we will examine this year’s theme, Yield Right-of-Way,by 1) considering scripture and questions on the subject, 2) hearing the testimony of others, and 3) listening to sermons on the topic. For instance, we will be considering who has the right-of-way when it comes to working on the Sabbath, inviting people to our banquets, valuing our possessions, and sending out a search party.
In the end, when we have refined our definition and considered the applications, we will have clearer understandings about how each of us can yield the right-of-way and help make our church thrive. Then, on Commitment Sunday, September 21st, when we gather to present our annual giving commitments for 2026, the congregation will share a Sunday dinner and celebrate in our fellowship hall.
Finally, what is of utmost importance to us – as a congregation of people who have decided to follow Jesus – is that Jesus had some interesting things to say about yielding the right-of-way.