2024-04-13 11:20:49
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Fog CloudsFog Clouds
Another dense, foggy day. Everything seems unsubstantial. How strange the world looks, so soft and fuzzy, when I know from experience that it is hard and firm. I hear cars inch past on the road, drivers hesitant to go fast in case a biker or an animal is ahead. My faith is sometimes like that—there are times when I know it is strong and substantial, but other times I feel it becoming gauzy and slick, almost slipping from my grasp as I despair or fret. It is then I most need your help, Dear Father, to assure me you are there with me, not only in the fog, but particularly in the fog! Please help me to trust you when I can no longer see you, hear your voice, or feel your presence. Be with me as I grope in the fog; may I draw comfort from your strength that is always extended to me, even in the gray fog of doubt.
Another dense, foggy day. Everything seems unsubstantial. How strange the world looks, so soft and fuzzy, when I know from experience that it is hard and firm. I hear cars inch past on the road, drivers hesitant to go fast in case a biker or an animal is ahead. My faith is sometimes like that—there are times when I know it is strong and substantial, but other times I feel it becoming gauzy and slick, almost slipping from my grasp as I despair or fret. It is then I most need your help, Dear Father, to assure me you are there with me, not only in the fog, but particularly in the fog! Please help me to trust you when I can no longer see you, hear your voice, or feel your presence. Be with me as I grope in the fog; may I draw comfort from your strength that is always extended to me, even in the gray fog of doubt.A Balm That HealsA Balm That Heals
The prophet Jeremiah is suffering from the unfaithfulness of God’s people. His heart is breaking as he visions war and disruption. He asks “Is there no balm in Gilead?” He is referring to a famous resin (ointment) harvested from the trunks of balsam pine trees that grow in the region of Gilead. Come and worship with us this Sunday and share the gospel that the Lord indeed provides grace, love, and spread Holy Spirit Balm.
The Joy Continues,
Pastor Brian
The fog has lifted. At night I can see across to the mainland, where house lights, buoys, and headlights shine. It seems so busy and energized over there across the bay’s water, but there must be those who sit at home tonight alone, looking into the darkness. Inside their windows they may live in need—need of food and money, of self-worth, need of God’s presence. Perhaps they are hungry or abused; perhaps they look out of eyes that are tear-filled. It is too easy for me to look into windows as if they were mirrors, seeing only myself reflected back, seeing no one else. I pray for these people too, for all those who have no understanding of your love or your presence. Be with them, I pray, and grant them your peace. May I use the bounty you have given me for their good and your glory. Amen.