First Church Family,
We had our first really cool morning this morning, and it brought a smile to my face and warmth to my heart! And my heart needed warming, as perhaps does yours. I write that because we have just remembered the 9/11 attack on our country twenty-one years ago.
Sometimes we try to forget tragic, unpleasant things. I know I do. But, this past Sunday, during the children’s sermon, as I was talking to our little ones about remembering that God comforts us when we are afraid, I recalled the fear on my own children’s faces when they learned about the evil attack on 9/11/01.
As I recalled the fear on their faces, I became emotional, and for a moment was unable to talk. Obviously, I hadn’t forgotten the darkness and death thrust upon us twenty-one years ago. Perhaps, because of being a pastor who seeks to comfort and console others, I hadn’t allowed myself to appropriately grieve over the experience of the evil event.
The lesson God taught me was: though we shouldn’t forget that evil is present, such evil will never have the upper hand against a loving God who walks with us in every moment, and is especially close when we are afraid.
The number of times that the caution to “fear not” is recorded in the Scriptures should remind us that God knows we are often afraid. And that He is with us during those times.
There are things about which you are afraid. I know that, because I am one of you. Let’s spend time reminding one another of God’s presence, power, and providence – all of which give us comfort and joy.
Blessings on you,
Pastor Dave