This summer, Dr. Green wanted to share some of his favorite First Steps from previous years.
July 1, 2024
A few weeks ago, I officiated a wedding, something I’m always delighted to do. Weddings are definitely a time to celebrate. On this occasion, during the reception, I saw the widow of my childhood baseball coach. Granted I had a few coaches throughout my childhood, but there was one that stood out—Mr. Ray. While talking with his widow at the reception, I was flooded with hundreds of different memories.
As I look back, they all are good—even the ones where he sent me running around the field for making an error or striking out. I remember this man spending countless hours teaching us how to hit, field, and throw. Thankfully, his sons loved baseball about as much as we did because he was at the ball field five to six nights a week. I can still hear his voice, “Shane, you can’t hit it if you can’t see it—watch the ball, son!” It seems like yesterday; yet, it was over thirty years ago.
I tell you this to remind you to carve out time to reflect. See all the ways people have blessed you. When we are young, we aren’t mature. We don’t know the value of those who teach and care for us. As we become older, we can look back with gratitude and appreciation. At the same time and because we know that life is fleeting, savor the moments you have today. Don’t assume the people and those moments will always be there. I’m convinced the more we do both--reflecting on the past and savoring the present--the more at peace we will be. Give it a try!
This Week's Readings:
Monday - Genesis 36
Tuesday - Genesis 37
Wednesday - Genesis 38
Thursday - Genesis 39
Friday - Genesis 40
We are reading the Bible in just a little over a year! Our sermon series, "Genesis: All in the Family," coincides with the first book of the Bible. We suggest that you watch or listen to sermons starting on April 21, 2024, to accompany your recent readings. You may find these on our website at spumccolumbus.com.
Things to Pray About:
Pray for words of kindness, to you and from you.
Pray for guidance, protection, healing, strength, courage, and faith.
Our unwillingly absent members and shut-ins.
Comfort those who are grieving.
Wisdom for our church leaders, local leaders, and world leaders.
Family restoration through forgiveness.
Continued growth of the faith of the people.
Especially pray for those in conflict and extreme distress at this time.
“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