Recently, I heard a piece of advice that really resonated with me. The gist of it is that we need to remember the bright and joyful times of our lives while we go through the darker times, and we need to remember the darker times while we go through the bright and joyful times. The reason is that the Holy Spirit was with us, guiding us, and teaching us through both types of seasons, and the lessons from each help to form our Christlike demeanor. This advice gives us balance and stability through life’s inevitable turmoils.
In my new role in the public defender office, I meet people every day from diverse circumstances and stations of life. I am amazed at how refreshing it is to find common ground and occasions of laughter and joy with many people, often despite difficult circumstances. This reality reminds me that our Lord is present and available to us all, every day. This is reason enough to celebrate!
I am pleased that we keep adding people to our Grace UMC team for the Emerald City 5k. A couple of folks from my office in Viera have signed up as part of our team, so our numbers are growing!
This Sunday, February 20, our scripture passages are Psalm 37: 1-11 and Matthew 6: 9-13. Pastor Beth will share a message entitled “A Treasonous Prayer.” I am looking forward to a service with a great message and wonderful music.
I hope you will join me in inviting at least two people to worship this week. Remember that the invitation can be in person or online. Just try it and see what God will do!
Finally, thanks for your ongoing prayers and I look forward to seeing you Sunday!
Steve Hart