Church

So the churches were strengthened in the faith 

and increased in numbers daily. Acts 16:5 (NRSV)

In my studies of the Old Testament I have come to realize the building of the Israelite nation happened because God wanted to establish a nation living under the government of God – within the laws and commandments given by God so that the presence of God would be seen by the other nations, by the other people.  This holy nation would be a beacon of light in a darkened world, serving to reveal the character of God to the rest of the world. 

On a smaller scale, doesn't this sound like the church of today?  Perhaps you've asked these questions yourself.  Why are we called together as a people?  Why is the church here?  Why do we spend time learning about God’s commandments and making changes in our own lives?  Why are we seeking to become a holy people?  Yes, so that our own relationship with God deepens, but also (and just as importantly) so we can be a beacon of light in a darkened world and serve to reveal the character of God to the people around us! 

O Holy God, strengthen my will today that I may follow your commandments and listen to your Word.  Be at work in me and through me that I may be a beacon of light in a world of darkness.  Through my character, my example, and my invitation may others come to know the grace and peace of Jesus Christ.  Amen.  Patrick Schultz 

Change

For I the Lord do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, have not perished.  Malachi 3:6 

In a world that moves at an ever faster pace we find ourselves struggling to stay caught up.  In the midst of the whirlwind speeds we recognize that many things around us change at an alarming rate.  Job situations are ever changing.  We need to change along with the industry or risk being left behind.  Family situations are changing.  What once was considered a nucleus family of mom, dad, and children has changed to include multiples of moms and dads or even absentee parents.  Schooling has changed with our kids utilizing ipads and iphones and internet on-line classes.  Church can now be “done” by watching television.  One no longer needs to get in the car and drive anywhere.  I’ve even heard of on-line marriages, long-distance joining of churches, and receiving Holy Communion via the internet.  Some changes are good.  Some changes are not so good.  But regardless of whether we think good or bad – change is inevitable. 

The only thing constant, that we can always rely upon, that will never change – is our Lord God.  God has always remained steadfast in love for us.  God’s grace and mercy has always been and always will be in abundance for each and every one of us.  No matter our background, no matter our history, no matter our race, our creed, our color, our sexual preference – God is there and loves us. 

Almighty God and Creator of All, we give thanks for your presence among us.  In the long and lonely nights, in the darkened and frightening moments, when we are at our lowest, we call out to you.  We give thanks that you are there and have not forsaken us.  Patrick