Roy’s Ramblings

In 2003 Pixar Films produced the animated movie “Finding Nemo”. A movie about an abducted fish and the adventures of his father to bring him home. In these adventures a forgetful fish, Dory, joins the search and in one seen she repeats the line: “Just keep Swimming”. This phrase has taken off as an American “Catch Phrase” and is used by many and immediately is recognized by the masses.

Anytime that perseverance is needed, I have resorted to repeating this phrase even if the perseverance has nothing to do with water, swimming, fish, or finding my son. For example, last year during FallFare we were entering into the final hour … my pedometer had already racked up 30,000 steps for the day … more things hurt in my body than didn’t … but, there was no possible way that I was going to quit early … and so … “Just Keep Swimming, Just Keep Swimming”. We finished the day and it was GLORIOUS!!!

That is just one example, but, one of our Scripture Lessons this Sunday includes: James 1:12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. And so, we are called to persevere … we are called to Just Keep Swimming. Set-backs, stumbling blocks, pains, fears, issues, problems … any trials we can possibly think of is nothing to the presence of God. God strengthens, encourages, guides, helps, and loves us through tough stuff. But, we need to keep swimming, pressing on, persevere.

We are also called to be in community with one other, called into unity with our brothers and sisters, called to be the body with many parts. So do not think that anyone needs to journey alone. In fact a well know African Proverbs says: Those who want to go fast … go alone — Those who want to go far … go together.

We are all in this to go as far and with as many as we possibly can. So I leave you with this: It is time for “Group Swim” – Let’s just Keep on Swimming!!!

Blessing to and for us all – Pastor Roy