A Morning Hymn for Worry | June 24th

  “Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.”

  Matthew 6:26

  I recently was in upstate New York for my niece’s wedding. We stayed in an old church that was converted into a house. The quaint white church was nestled closely to a dairy farm. Early in the morning, with the sun just rising over the rolling hills, I sat upon the front steps of this old church. What greeted me was a symphony of God’s creatures welcoming the new day. There were so many birds singing simultaneously; it was almost overwhelming, yet so beautiful. You could hear the distinct plea of the baby birds looking for food, then a momentary silence as they were fed. Then they resumed their part in production.

  This experience served as a powerful reminder of God’s abundant blessings upon His creation and His faithfulness even to the smallest creatures, who exist for His glory and pleasure. Although we live in a fallen world, God has placed us amid the wonder of His creation. The Lord assured us that we would face tribulation in this life, but also promised that the Comforter would remain with us.

  Beloved, if you are feeling anxious or discouraged by the challenges you face, remember that the Lord is ever present and faithful. The goodness of God is your portion. If He cares for the birds of the air, how much more does He love you and provide for you? God loves you and remains with you.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight

A Faithful Guide | June 23rd

 “Teach me your way, O Lord, and lead me on a level path.”

   Psalm 27:11

  Beloved, have you ever asked for directions, only for them to become overly complicated? Even with today’s technology, things can feel overwhelming or confusing. We have probably missed more than one turn in these situations because the screen was unclear or because we did not understand.

  Thankfully, the Lord's leading is not one of confusion. There will be moments of waiting, uncertainty, anxiety, or hesitation, but our assurance rests on His faithfulness. Even if we have missed the turn, so to speak, God works all things for our good. He does not abandon us.

  In our seasons of decision-making, we should reflect on Jesus walking and living with the disciples. That experience was simple, even though they did not fully understand Jesus or what He was doing. Yet Christ continued to teach them and walk with them. He also promised to send the Holy Spirit once He was gone, so that this guidance, life, and teaching could continue.

  The Spirit of God is with you today as well. Be assured that you are not in this life alone. So pause for a moment. Pray and seek the Lord through His word. He will teach you and lead you on a level path.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight

Jesus Eats With Everyone | June 22nd

 “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?”

  Mark 2:16

  Beloved, it is often more comfortable to love those with whom we share common interests. However, the Gospel calls us to extend grace to all people. Jesus welcomed everyone at His table.

  Christ did not conform to the behaviors of sinners, tax collectors, or even His own disciples, yet He shared meals with all of them. If they were willing to listen, Jesus was willing to share Himself. At times, it is difficult for us to demonstrate this same generosity and compassion toward those who are different from us, regardless of the nature of those differences.

  We live in a divided world, but as Christians, we need to remember that our true home is in heaven. We are called to share God’s love with everyone, including those who do not know Him. We should show the fruit of the Holy Spirit to strangers, friends, and family alike.

  Let us be generous toward everyone we encounter today. May we be fishers of men, willing to share fellowship with all, as our Lord did. He who knew no sin came to sinners like us and brought us salvation.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight