Recently, I have been reflecting upon how distracting it is to focus on events of the past and plans for the future. Personally, regrets from the past and ambitions for the future both make it difficult to focus upon my present life circumstances. Yet when I fully embrace life moment by moment, I am able to trust that the Holy Spirit is at work and that life is sacred because He is present. While I know that we all need to learn from past mistakes and to make plans for the future, God calls us and teaches us to live in the present moment and to trust Him, one day at a time. It takes practice, but it is worth it!
Of course, we have to make some plans in life. One plan that I am happy to report is that our music department here at Grace has planned another choir workshop this summer. The dates will be August 4 and 5 with a special concert on August 5 at 7pm. This event is open to the community and is sure to be an uplifting experience. See Nick Barth for details.
This Sunday, July 16, we will continue our series on the Old Testament book of Genesis. The scripture passages are Psalm 137: 1-4 and Genesis 11: 1-9. I am working on a message entitled “The Good and Bad of It: Tower of Babel.” If you recall the story of the Tower of Babel, you may see it as another example of what Proverbs 16: 1 tells us, “We humans make plans, but the Lord has the final word.” Does this quote give you comfort or anxiety? For me, the honest answer is that it is a little of both. I like being able to plan, but experience shows me that I can never predict what events will transpire. If I want a joyful life, I must be open and flexible, knowing that Christ walks with me.
Do you have a specific need for ongoing prayer? Remember that our Stephen Ministers are available to meet with you in person or by phone, even if only for a brief prayer of encouragement. We all need that from time to time. Just contact any of us pastors or Ms. Betty Kennedy, through the church office, to get connected.
I am looking forward to preaching this Sunday, and I hope to see you in worship. We need our time together as a community of faith. Life is often hard, but God is so good to us if we seek Him and rely upon His guidance.
See you Sunday!
Steve Hart