First Steps – November 13, 2017

In 1952, Florence Chadwick attempted to become the first woman to swim the twenty plus miles of the Catalina Channel (from Catalina Island to the Palos Verde Peninsula).  Due to the threat of sharks, cold water, and a blanket of fog, she gave up with only 1 mile to go.  Why did she give up?  She couldn’t tell if she was making any progress.  Afterwards she told reporters, “Look I’m not excusing myself, but if I could have seen land, I know I could have made it.”  Two months later, she competed the journey because she could see land.

We are called to be an enduring people.  Often, when we lose hope, we can’t see the finish line.  The fog rolls in.  When that happens remind yourself of the finish line.   We want to keep our eyes on the end—the majestic vision of God dwelling with his people—our eternal home.  Romans 5:3-5 states, “…but we also glory in our suffering, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.  And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”

This week’s reading:

For all those who have influenced your life – Give thanks.
For the St. Paul Community and the loss of many loved ones.

God Bless,