A Note

From Pastor Mark

I remember during the time of 9/11 that our church’s attendance at Faith Lutheran in Washington, IL, increased for several weeks.

When additional national threats to our country did not materialize, attendance sank to normal numbers.

Why did this happen?       It’s probably not unusual.

Don’t we all flock to God in time of trouble, asking for release from our fear, sickness, or any crisis that befalls us?

Psalm 46:1 says that God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. So we reach for God daily.

But, human as we are, we often return to our own devices when the crisis has passed. Why don’t we continue to lean on the everlasting arms of God for continued comfort and guidance (every day)?

This reminds me of my own childhood, when I ran (or snuck) into my mom and dad’s bedroom during the night for comfort from the boogie man, from the “something” hiding under my bed or in my closet, or from a loud crash of thunder. Then, in the morning, it was back to good old daylight and safety. I was fine “on my own” until bedtime, or another crisis.

When we’re worried or sick, when we lose our income, home or loved ones, our minds and hearts are busy sending out prayers. We pray despite our weakness. We feel God’s power because we know that God cares. God listens, walks with us, and comforts us. None of us are immune to periods of weakness, sickness or distress.

But we expect Jesus to come again. He is with us now, and will come again to complete the work of restoration, to bring light to the world.

God’s power encourages us to rejoice in hope, and to share this hope with others. Jesus’ promise can help us to stand steadfast in times of hardship, sickness or any disaster that befalls us.

Jesus proclaims that, while life will not be easy, he has overcome the world with light. As we put God first in our thoughts, minds and souls, we have hope every day.

I’ll see you in worship!

Pastor Mark

email Pastor Mark: pastormark@sotpmail.com