It’s Friday and Sunday’s Comin’!
Dear NUMC,
I had to snag this photo as a sneak preview of the photos that you’ve started sending to Jim Oliver. You will so enjoy seeing the pictures as part of Worship Online! This was taken by Norman Knight in Chile. Watch for it again!
When we see a mountain from a distance, it is quite beautiful and when you’re on top of the mountain the view is incredible. However, when the mountain is being climbed, there are many challenges: the path is not straight, obstacles such as rocks and rough terrain make the climb difficult, it’s a long way to the top and you will find yourself hot and exhausted along the way.
When you’re frustrated, discouraged, or dismayed by the obstacles in your path, the words of the Psalms give comfort and inspire perseverance:
Make your ways known to me, Lord;
teach me your paths.
Lead me in your truth–teach it to me–
because you are the God who saves me.
I put my hope in you all day long.
Lord, remember your compassion and faithful love —
they are forever!
But don’t remember the sins of my youth or my wrongdoing.
Remember me only according to your faithful love
for the sake of your goodness, Lord.
Turn to me, God and have mercy on me
because I’m alone and suffering.
My heart’s troubles keep getting bigger–
set me free from my distress!
Look at my suffering and trouble–
forgive all my sins!
Look at how many enemies I have and
how violently they hate me!
Don’t let me be put to shame
because I take refuge in you.
Let integrity and virtue guard me
because I hope in you.
–Psalm 25:1-7, 16-21
Blessings always,
Pastor Mary
