June 28, 2020

The scripture that was read when I was baptized was Hebrews 12 “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith ..” I love these verses because they remind me that my walk with Jesus is not a sprint, or even a marathon (thank goodness!) but it is a walk that lasts a lifetime. I must have endurance.

Anyone besides me challenged with endurance through the COVID 19 pandemic – through the changes in our lives? I do not think I’m alone. Truth is - we are not alone. We are united in faith; we are connected through the Holy Spirit with the love of Jesus. We, united in this way, have the opportunity to make a difference.

When we receive our new heart, when our hearts are tender, our stony heart is replaced with the heart of Christ. When we have the heart and love of Christ, we see from a different seat … we see through the eyes of Jesus. It is the first of a lifetime of moments that I call “God Kisses!” We are humbled by the love and forgiveness we have receive and our life is never the same. "The best and most beautiful things in this world cannot be seen or even heard but must be felt with the heart." - Helen Keller

The transformation in each one of us makes a transformation in our family, community and culture possible. But it starts with you, with me. With an individual. Intentional relationships with people. In the messiness of life. It starts with understanding that we are created in the same image and have the same value to the God who loved and created us. (Genesis 1.26 “Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness”) Let each of us honor the God we serve by loving His people.

Looking into a future that seems unknown, or unsure can feel frightening. We can stand on the promise of God that He will never leave us, that He will provide all we need. We can also find comfort that He is not surprised. He is Alpha and Omega – the beginning and the end. He knows what the future holds. Trust in Him.

Love and Prayers

Pastor Deb