In case you haven't noticed, the Mid-week Epistle has been missing for several weeks. We went on a vacation to Wisconsin and Pennsylvania and took time to do some carving, look at trees, and treading water (like everyone else). While on the trip, I did not take the time or have many places to stop and find a computer, so I will try to catch up in the future. I pray that these continue to bless and uplift your hearts.
Jim

Keeping It Safe

A new mailman was delivering mail on his route for the first time. He noticed that many of the mailboxes were knocked down or damaged, apparently as a result of careless driving or vandalism. Then he came upon an old mailbox in mint condition. He couldn't figure out why until he dropped off the mail and pulled away from the curb. In his rear view mirror, he saw an elderly woman walk to the mailbox, pull it out of the ground, heave it onto her shoulder and walk merrily up her driveway.

That is one way to keep from being undamaged in the world. Only make yourself available if the times when you know it is safe and you can quickly retreat into your sanctuary.

However, that is not the way that Christ chose to walk in this world. His life was one that was continually battered by words, actions, and even crucifixion. The reason was because He was doing it for you and I. Not so we could be safe, but so we could live boldly in face of all difficulties.

Mid-week Prayer

Loving Father, it is hard to believe that we can be so cruel even in this modern world today.

Surely we have learned something from our past? Show us continually the way that Christ walked so boldly and yet so lovingly for all to see. In His power and promise we pray. Amen.

This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Next week we will more of the power of love.

A Different Look at Life

I once read a story about a young man who was born with spasms. At times they were uncontrollable and because of the cruel way people can be, he began to live a very sheltered life. One day, he met another young man who said: "You must be the favorite pupil of the Lord Jesus Christ."
The young man flew into a rage. "How can you call me a favorite? Look at me! Look at how He made me."
His young friend replied: "No, it's just like in school. There the teacher always gives the hardest problem to her favorite pupil because she knows he will have the right answer and solve the problem. And you have the hardest problem."
Can you look at your life in that way? That is a great challenge to see something in ourselves that only God can see because He can see the soul inside and the world looks only at the outside. Today, why not look at your life with the eyes of God?

Mid-week Prayer

Loving Father, thank You for seeing something inside us that can so easily remain hidden. Today, open our lives to the fullness of Your glorious love. In the name of the blessed Christ we pray. Amen.

This has been Rev. Jim Massey. Did you ever wonder what a difference a belief in God can make in your life? Join me and we will share some powerful words on the subject.