Maybe I’m the only one to feel this way, but I’m suddenly very aware of all that is around me. I’m feeling particularly blessed today. You might ask, how is it possible that I am feeling so blessed? This six week isolation has given me time to reflect on what I hold near and dear. What I hold near and dear is the fact that I love each of you so much. I may not see you, I may not get to hug you or hold you, you may not even think you are thought of, but you are. My life has been incredibly blessed by you being a part of it. My family, my friends, my church family, you all are so much a part of my life and it blesses me to think of each of you and to see you in my mind’s eye. You are a part of my daily prayers, I pray for God’s love, comfort, mercy, healing, forgiveness, and grace to surround and protect you. You are so very special to me, and I’m very sure, to God.
The scripture text that came to mind as I sat to write this, comes from Psalm 46: 10…”Be still, and know that I am God!” That scripture has always been in the recesses of my mind, and it came to the forefront today. I revisited the text again and it made me shutter in its phrasing, how it seems to jump out and speak like never before. The psalmist says, 1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea; 3 though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult. (Selah) 4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. 5 God is in the midst of the city; it shall not be moved; God will help it when the morning dawns. 6 The nations are in an uproar, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts. 7 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. (Selah) 8 Come, behold the works of the Lord; see what desolations he has brought on the earth. 9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow, and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire. 10 “Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth.” 11 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.
Today, April 22nd, is Earth Day. It is the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. A time that has been set apart for us to consider the earth, the needs of the earth and all that is in the earth. It is a day to teach and reflect on the ecological impact we have on our home. It has been reported that since this world-wide pause, the skies are clearing up in places that were oppressed by smog and pollution. Animals are starting to come out of hiding. Waters are clearing. The earth has had an opportunity to take a breath and feel less stressed. We are incredibly blessed my friends. Take time today to reflect and be grateful for God’s blessings in your life. Let’s all of us, be still and recognize God’s blessings in our lives.
Blessings and Peace,
Pastor Tom