³³“No one after lighting a lamp puts it in a cellar, but on the lampstand so that those who enter may see the light. ³⁴Your eye is the lamp of your body. If your eye is healthy, your whole body is full of light; but if it is not healthy, your body is full of darkness. ³⁵Therefore consider whether the light in you is not darkness. ³⁶If then your whole body is full of light, with no part of it in darkness, it will be as full of light as when a lamp gives you light with its rays.” Luke 11:33-36

As I read this passage, I thought a lot about a recent class in our ongoing bible study on angel.  We explored the fallen angels, the demons, and their influence on today’s society. 

This passage is very serious – how we look at the world, at each other, can indicate our spiritual health.  Are we looking at each other with the light of Jesus or are we looking at each other through darkness? 

In a time of political upheaval, a contentious election, fears (on “both” sides) and trepidation about the election day itself, we need to fill ourselves with the light of Christ and then put that light onto the lampstand so all may see.

Peace,

Pastor Bill

The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
The Lord is good to all, and his compassion is over all that he has made. Psalm 145:8-9

Sometimes things get out of hand.  You are running late, the traffic is worse than normal, someone keeps texting you and you reach your boiling point and snap.  It happens.  We all fall victim to our own tempers at different times.

The good news is our Lord is gracious and merciful.  God is slow to anger (and that is very good news because if there were anyone who should be angry at us, it is God). 

As you enter into this week, try to be slow to anger, find love even for the driver in front of you, and aim for compassion.

And if that fails, remember God is merciful so be merciful as well, even to yourself.

Peace,

Pastor Bill

 Let the heavens praise your wonders, O LORD,
          your faithfulness in the assembly of the holy ones. Psalm 89:5

For some, the Aurora Borealis was visible in our area last week.  Others commented on a recent sunrise and we, again, had the opportunity to watch a beautiful sunset with a crowd of people clapping. 

It is amazing how something as “simple” as a beautiful sky can change our moods and disposition.  Yet if you think about it, the heavens are praising God’s wonders.  As people clapped for the sunset, I could not help but think how they are giving God praise (even if they do not believe in God).

Nature is an excellent sign of God’s providence.  The earth springs forth fruits and vegetables, the trees give us a stunning display in the autumn, the sky provides a light show beyond any fireworks.  Walking through the woods can heal us as much as sitting by the side of a body of water.

As you travel through this week, take some time to enjoy this season, be outside, get fresh air and look around for you will see God’s handiwork.

Peace,

Pastor Bill