On Sunday mornings, I get to experience one of the best views in church
from the pulpit. I see the entire worshiping congregation and, as I
scan the people in the pews, I think about their struggles and stories
and of how the amazing grace of God has been, and is still working in
their lives.
I see people who are grieving the loss of loved
ones, but in the midst of their heartache, they still hold on to the
love of God.
I see folks who are undergoing serious tests or
recovering from surgery, who have placed their prayers and lives into
God's healing hands.
I see parents who are bringing up their kids
in the best ways that they can, providing them with encouragement and
support, as well as nurturing them in the Christian faith.
I see
people whose marriages are crumbling and they are struggling to maintain
a sense of identity and security, praying to God for help and guidance.
I see single people who devote much of their time to the well-being
of others, serving in the missions and programs of our church.
I
see college students whose dreams are only just beginning and whose hard
work and determination will bring about what they seek to do with their
lives and how they can serve God in the world.
I see young people
who are still at school, trying to do the best that they can and
experiencing many new things in life. They still have that beautiful
wonder of God and Life which delights the whole church.
I see and
hear the infants, toddlers, and babies in our church and my heart is
glad that they can find an extended loving family here.
I see all
of these things and all of these good people, and it humbles me. The
grace of God is evident in all of our lives and it is constantly
amazing.
Questions for personal reflection:
How do I
experience the grace of God in my life? Where do I see it existing in
the lives of others?
Prayer: Loving God, Your grace is amazing
and we are constantly astounded by its presence in our lives. Sustain
our wonder of Your works and our love of our Lord. Be with us and bless
all our loved ones this day. In Jesus' Name, we pray. Amen.