FROM THE PASTOR
January 28, 2018
Well, this has turned into an interesting week. Nothing devastating compared to what some of you are going through but it still had its challenges. First, praise the Lord, I got my eye prism off this week. For a little over a week, I had noticed the double vision was gone when I took the glasses off. But I still didn’t feel I should take the prism off myself until I saw the eye doctor. She examined the eye, agreed with my assessment and off it came. It’s sure nice to see clearly with both eyes now and not live life with half my vision in a cloud.
Second, I wrote a couple months ago about my jeep rhythmically cycling. It was the transmission. This week a used (new to me with a 100,000 less miles then the original) transmission is being installed. I should get it back Tuesday. Difficult to put that amount of $$ into a vehicle with 202,000 miles, but still cheaper than a new vehicle. Besides, I still enjoy the vehicle and it’s still in good shape so it has value to me.
Third, our daughter Heather rented a house in Mattawan. This means that Connie and I can now say we are true empty nesters. It’s hard for young folks to get a good start in the world today and we’re happy for her new adventure… and ours.
Even with all that, I find myself thankful that life never stays exactly the same. I’ve struggled enough with cabin fever this winter that change is a welcome diversion. At least it breaks up the doldrums. God reinforced this as He reminded me to be satisfied in whatever state I’m in. Remember what Paul wrote the Philippian church…
Philippians 4:12-13 (NASB)
12 I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.
13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
Verse 13 in the key. It unlocks the door to the realization that whatever is going on in our life, that event is never beyond or outside of God.
In case you think that my life is any easier than yours just because I have been called into the pastorate… let me assure you, I struggle just like you do. There are times I want to yell to and at God, question His intentions and have my own way. Sound familiar? Nothing new. Even Paul struggled. So how did He mature? Look again at verse 12…
12 I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.
Paul matured because Paul learned. Change and its corresponding lessons are often challenging. The route is sometimes rugged and the journey lonely. But as we learn to trust in God, His promises will become more evident and joy will take its rightful place.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (MSG)
5 Trust GOD from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own.
6 Listen for GOD's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track.
Thank you for your faithfulness. Pastor Larry
