Daily Devotions
New devotions are posted Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Springtime Courage
The irises in my flower beds started growing this week. In just a few days, the shoots have extended almost a foot out of the ground. Has spring really sprung or will another cold snap steal away the joy that is emerging at my front step? It’s a question that resonates deeply with the life of faith. Just as the irises tentatively push through the soil, we too may feel hesitant in our own faith journeys, uncertain of whether the promise of new life will truly be fulfilled.
Yet, the story of spring speaks to us of hope and resurrection. As the earth awakens from its winter slumber, we are reminded of the transformative power of God’s love. The barrenness of winter gives way to the beauty of spring, mirroring the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Just as the irises burst forth from the ground, so too did Jesus emerge from the tomb, victorious over death.
But embracing the joy of resurrection also means taking risks. It means putting ourselves out there, vulnerable to the uncertainties of life. Just as these irises brave the possibility of another cold snap, we too are called to step out in faith, trusting in God’s vision for our lives.
So, let’s not shrink back in fear, but instead, let us embrace the promise of new life with courage and boldness. Like the irises in my garden, may we bloom where we are planted, sharing the message of resurrection hope with all those around us.
May God’s peace find you today. – Pastor Peter
Let us pray… God of springtime, as the irises bloom, may we embrace the joy of resurrection, stepping out in faith and courageously sharing Your love. Amen.
Previously…
New Beginnings
As the vibrant colors of spring will soon burst forth and the fragrance of flowers begins to fill the air, we are reminded of the beauty of new life and the promise of renewal. In this season of resurrection, we’ll be initiating a spiritual awakening, exploring the theme of “Return to the Garden” in our post-Easter worship series.
Ponderings
”They went out and fled from the tomb for terror and amazement had seized them and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.” Peter’s sermon Sunday reminded me that as people of God we are amazed, fearful, hopeful, despairing and willing all at the same time. We can fly in fright then turn around and walk into those fears in faith.
He is Risen!
He is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia! Did you hear the laughter of people and the giggles of children in the Sanctuary? Joy and love abound! The sounds of choir, congregation, and brass lifted the good news out of the sanctuary and into the world to join with so many other congregations celebrating the news of Jesus arising. We gathered in love and friendship – hugs all around.
Four Years Ago
There’s been a recurring question popping up a fair mount lately, “are you better off today than you were four years ago?” The questioners of course are trying to make comparisons between the leadership of our country and between two very different administrations. In trying to answer the question, we’re quick to remember that four years ago, the world was firmly in the grasp of a pandemic primarily defined by unknowns and uncertainties. For our devotion today, I offer the concluding passage of the sermon that I preached for Easter morning, four years ago: