2024-04-26 11:11:43
Categories:
Related Post
Planting PansiesPlanting Pansies
I planted a flat of pansies today, eager for spring’s splash of color in my heard. The island consists entirely of sand and oyster shells, so maintaining soil is difficult. I try to add topsoil, but it filters through the sand and vanishes. I must work at growing flowers on the island, digging, replenishing, fertilizing and watering.
I planted a flat of pansies today, eager for spring’s splash of color in my heard. The island consists entirely of sand and oyster shells, so maintaining soil is difficult. I try to add topsoil, but it filters through the sand and vanishes. I must work at growing flowers on the island, digging, replenishing, fertilizing and watering.My religious life is like that too. I can’t take for granted that an occasional watering or spading or fertilizing will suffice; I need to work at my faith, keeping it weeded and tended. Too often I assume the seeds of faith planted as a child should be enough to last me all my life, but that’s not good enough. Please forgive me, Father, when I neglect my garden of faith; help me to be a more faithful, diligent, and joyful gardener.
Yes, It’s RealYes, It’s Real
I saw an oystercatcher today, a large bird that inhabits tidal flats. A friend bought me a dish in a local gift shop with an oystercatcher painted on it, and insisted that we had to see one for the dish to be ‘authentic’ as a souvenir. I had to laugh with her; so often I too have my tests for authenticity; I must see before I can believe something is legitimate. I’m reminded of Doubting Thomas who couldn’t accept the disciples’ word that Jesus had appeared before them. Thomas insisted on actually witnessing the risen Lord, touching the wounds and verifying them for himself. Jesus didn’t even berate Thomas’ doubts; he understood that faith grows by testing and wondering, even by doubting. I thank you, Lord, for today’s oystercatcher sighting, and for your patient understanding of my own tests of faith. While I may doubt you, I know your love for me never wavers. I thank and praise you. Amen.
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