First Steps – December 18, 2017

I’m sure you have heard that a picture is worth a thousand words.  Though I’m not sure St. Francis was aware of that saying, he definitely understood the concept when he told his friars to preach the gospel and if needed, use words. There is something about an image, a picture, a scene that can encapsulate our imagination and span thousands of thoughts and reflections.  It is one of the reasons why we use symbols in worship.  A picture is worth a thousand words…perhaps it is worth a thousand sermons.

Recently a friend of mine emailed me a couple of pictures of our church while he ran at sunset.  From a few blocks away, he could see our steeple in the distance. For both of us, the pictures created the image of peace.  Knowing that the world runs at a non-stop pace, there is one place that beckons us to slow down, take in all the goodness around us, and to trust in the God who holds all of us in his hands.  I hope you will look for those pictures, those images, and those scenes that beckon us away for respite.  They are gifts from God.

      

This week’s reading:

Monday – 1 Corinthians 12
Tuesday – 1 Corinthians 13, 14
Wednesday – 1 Corinthians 15, 16
Thursday – 2 Corinthians 1, 2
Friday – 2 Corinthians 3-6

Please Pray for:

  • The upcoming Ukraine Mission Trip.
  • The many who dread this season because of the pain of brokenness, sadness, and grief.
  • Everyone who will attend worship services at this time of the year—may they rest in the joy of God’s gift of salvation in Jesus Christ.