“Where is God in the middle of this?” This was the question a spiritual director asked a group of pastors discussing the state of affairs. Like the other pastors around me, I feigned interest for part of me didn’t want to consider the question. It is easier to blame someone or something for what one dislikes or disagrees with. Rarely does one take ownership. Rarer still is the one who will begin with his/her own actions to see how those actions have affected another. After a few moments, the director asked again, “Where is God in the middle of this…what does God want you to learn?” As I reflect upon this experience, I wonder how many arguments, frustrations, and disagreements would have instantly dissolved if I began with my part of the dysfunction or disagreement instead of pointing the finger at the other person. I wonder how much peace I have forfeited, how much time wasted by not first looking inward. There is a prayer exercise that I do either before I go to bed or when I wake up. I examine the past 24 hours of my life. I look for those places where I’ve added to another person, where I brought joy, and reflected the image of Christ to others. I pray for more of these events and opportunities. Likewise, I look for those times when I have detracted, not modeled Christ, and not put my best foot forward. I try not to offer excuses or justifications but simply own my intent and actions. Then, I pray for awareness to know when I’m not modeling my Lord. Awareness is the key, for I can’t mature or become the person I want to become without it. At some point, we all must become comfortable with answering the question, “Where is God in the middle of this?” Perhaps there lies the best opportunity to grow.  This Week’s Readings: *Monday – John 1 *Tuesday – John 2 *Wednesday – John 3 *Thursday – John 4 *Friday – John 5 Prayer Requests: *Teachers, students, and parents coping with anxiety. *Heal those who are sick and protect those who are not. *Comfort those who are grieving and in distress. *Wisdom for our leaders as they navigate through uncertain times. *Guidance for those seeking to find their way. *Continued Growth Inside and Outside the Walls of St. Paul UMC. |
| “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6 |