| I’m the worst on vehicles, especially tires. For some reason, I am a magnet for nails or anything that can produce a puncture. On a previous car that I drove for 10 years, I put 4 sets of tires over the duration of ownership—that is 16 tires or 1 tire about every 9 months. Recently, I bought a new car and within 5 weeks, I’ve already slashed a tire resulting in the purchase of a new one. In this latest episode, as I ran over what I assumed was a nail, I instantly knew I was in trouble. I didn’t need the dreaded “low tire pressure” signal on my dashboard, I immediately felt it in the wheel. I have to admit there were a multitude of thoughts that ran through my mind. Thoughts of anger, shock, and disbelief. As I exited the interstate to find a safe place to investigate how severe the problem was, there was another idea. I realized not even one of my thoughts could change my reality. The tire was still slashed, and anger or disbelief wasn’t going to change it. For many, there is always a lurking temptation fueled by anger. Instead of slowing things down in order to process the experience, many jump to decisions based on anger which often leads to regret because of words spoken or actions committed. Genesis 4 is a reminder of this temptation: Then the Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry?” Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at the door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.” (Vrs 6,7). When faced with anger, slow things down, take a moment and say a prayer to see past the immediate. A wider view or a momentary pause is often what is needed to introduce a better path. It is not by chance that God is slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. We should seek the same.  This Week’s Readings: *Monday – Matthew 13 *Tuesday – Matthew 14 *Wednesday – Matthew 15 *Thursday – Matthew 16 *Friday – Matthew 17 Things to Pray About: -The devastation and finding peace in Israel, and in the world. -Pray for guidance, protection, strength, courage, and faith. -Our unwillingly absent members. -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. -Family restoration through forgiveness. -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 |