Chaos in the Garden | May 19th

 “Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called ‘today,’ that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.”

  Hebrews 3:12-13

  Beloved, we can all agree that this past winter was particularly challenging. Recently, I began the late spring clean-up and noticed that the yard reflected both the severity of the season and the effects of delayed maintenance. A mink had emptied the Koi pond of all its fish, and broken branches were scattered throughout the yard. Restoring the garden to its original beauty and tranquility will require significant effort.

  This process reminded me of the importance of tending to our hearts. Our minds and spirits can quickly descend into chaos if they are not guided by the Word of God. We must remain vigilant in guarding our hearts to prevent the resurgence of our old nature or the cares of life from hindering spiritual growth.

  It is reassuring to know that we are not alone in this endeavor. We are called to seek the Lord’s assistance and rely on the Holy Spirit to convict, strengthen, and encourage us. Scripture identifies the aspects of our lives that require transformation so that the life of Christ may be evident within us. Although this work is demanding, it is not without hope. With God, all things are possible. Let us dedicate ourselves to this ongoing process as the Spirit renews the garden of our lives each day.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight

News in the Fields | May 18th

  “Then she arose with her daughters-in-law to return from the country of Moab, for she heard in the fields of Moab that the Lord had visited his people and given them food.”

  Ruth 1:6

  Beloved, sometimes the word that we need comes suddenly and in ordinary ways. For ten years, Naomi lived in Moab. There she suffered loss and gained two daughters-in-law.

  We are not told why she was in the field. Was it pleasure or work-related? Was she still feeling the ache of loss, was going home on her mind, or had she given up on ever returning there? We can only speculate what Naomi was doing on that particular day and what she was thinking, but it did not keep the good word of God from coming to her, even in a foreign land.

  We are privileged to open our Bibles each day and receive the good word of God. Regardless of our circumstances, thoughts, or emotions, scripture is living and active. It accomplishes God’s will in us through the power of the Spirit. Scripture is our daily bread, essential for our spiritual sustenance. Additionally, the Lord uses our circumstances and the counsel of others to convey His providence.

  Whether we are at rest or engaged in labor, alone or among others, God will speak to us. The good report will reach us, stirring our faith and prompting us to respond to what the Lord has prepared for us. The sheep of the Good Shepherd recognize His voice because they belong to Him. He leads us into green pastures and restores our souls for His name’s sake. The Lord continues to visit His people and provide for them. He that has ears let them hear the word of the Lord.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight

A Firm Hope | May 15th

 “The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way, though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the Lord upholds his hand.”

   Psalm 37:23

  Beloved, upon what foundation do you stand today? What assurance do you possess that, should you stumble or fail, you will regain your balance and rise again?

  Our deepest hope rests in the faithfulness and goodness of God. He observes us, understands us, and supports us. The strength necessary for each day is provided by His grace, which remains sufficient for every circumstance. We are renewed by His mercy, which is renewed each morning, accompanied by the promise that nothing in life can separate us from God’s love for us in Christ Jesus.

  The righteous individual will encounter hardship, blessing, joy, and sorrow. Although endowed with the strength to persevere, they may still stumble and experience failure.

  God stabilizes us when our footing is uncertain. He lifts, renews, and sustains us. God’s promise is to complete the good work He has begun. The Lord holds your hand today, and His grasp remains strong even when yours is weak.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight