WATCHWORD:
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Colossians 3:15.
Bulletin Board:
From Graham: When I examine my actions in times of adversity, I find I turn with more intensity to prayer. This revealed that in times of smooth sailing, I need to be more disciplined and responsive to God calling me to prayer!
When our health, the health of those we love and our way of life is threatened – How do we respond? Who do we turn to? Lately I have experienced a change in my connection with my “Community of Faith” who ministered to me during past and present difficulties. One of those surprised me with a delightful book “A collection of prayers.”
While another dear friend shared this prayer: “Days pass and the years vanish and we walk sightless among miracles. Lord fill our eyes with seeing and our minds with knowing. Let there be moments when your Presence, like lightening, illumines the darkness in which we walk! Help us to see wherever we gaze, that the bush burns unconsumed and we, clay touched by God, will reach out for holiness and exclaim in wonder, ‘How filled with awe is this place and we did not know it’. From Gates of Prayer and Meditation – A Psalmist asks ‘Where Does My Help Come From? Psalm 121:1. For his answer turn to Ps 121:2-8.
From Stan: It’s been a long time since I’ve been in the psychology counseling business, but I know that this isolation, by itself, is not a good thing for our mental or physical health. I’ve been listening closely to talking heads who have sterling advice to offer, and I think some of that is sound, and makes sense.
We all have to stay active, in one form or another. You have to keep our minds active whether it’s through reading, crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, or conversations with friends. We have to stay in contact with others. Set a goal each day of touching base with one or two of your circle of friends, relatives, or church community.
Being active, as the weather improves get out and walk. We do have to avoid contact with people, but keep in mind that is defined as 10 feet apart, not no contact.
My daughter has recommended that I sign up for Zoom, a system that’s easily acquired on your computer or your iPad. Just google Zoom and follow instructions. You can invite several friends or relatives to join you, and you see them face-to-face as your chat. It’s a bit like a group FaceTime. FaceTime is another good way to chat and see a friendly face. My friend in Illinois does that almost daily with her kids and grandkids, who are quarantined.
The point to keep in mind is you are not alone, we are all going through this, but we all have a responsibility to keep our minds and bodies active. Be kind to yourself.
From Joyce: If you are lonely (bored, inactive), you must realize you can confront it in the name of Jesus Christ. God has promised to be with you always and to never leave or forsake you. Ask him to reveal his precious Presence to you. Stand on His promise that He will comfort you and cause you to rejoice. Then get ready for the joy.
For I will turn their mourning into joy and will comfort them and make them rejoice after their sorrow. Jeremiah 31:13. Amen.
May the Lord Bless you and Keep you safe at home and 10 feet away from others, and grant you His Peace. Amen.
Morning Prayer:
“I thank you, my Heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen.”
–Martin Luther
