How to Make the Right Choice

 It’s said that choice, not chance, determines destiny. This is true considering that taking chances are unpredictable, uncontrollable, and uncertain. But choices are made through deliberate thoughts, intentions, and preferences. Chances depend on certain luck and randomness; choices are based on deliberate decision-making.

Considering the differences, here’s a thought: You can choose to take a chance and risk making the wrong choice.  Or, you can choose not to take a chance and be more confident you’re making the right choice.

Should you choose the latter, then you can consider how to make the right choice.

Obviously, if you can make the right choice you can also make the wrong choice. This, of course, depends on where you go to make your choice. This is challenging, indeed.

I could list many practical ways for determining how to arrive at the right choice. You might have used these steps yourself:

• • Making a list of options, researching each one, then narrowing them down to the one that appears the best;
  • Investigate the situation at hand; interview others who can advise you through their own knowledge and experience;
  • List the advantages vs. disadvantages then set goals that will determine the right outcome you are seeking;
  • Consider how you see the outcome will be by your decisions. Will they help or hurt? What kind of effect will they have not only on you but others both now and in the future?
  • Determine your own set of beliefs, values, and attitudes and how you’ll approach making the right choice. And who can you trust to guide you according to your beliefs, etc.?

I suppose there are many more ideas you could add to this list. But the step that I believe really stands out among any of them is the last one. For, as I see it, what you believe, the values or principles you live by, the attitude you have will determine all the other ways upon which you make your choice. Besides, they also play a major role toward shaping your personality.

As far as my beliefs, values, and attitudes are concerned, I choose the Biblical approach for making right choices. It’s all about the difference between what is truly right and what is truly wrong. In other words, the ultimate choice is between good or evil; moral or immoral; positive or negative.

It seems this way of thinking is lacking in much of the world. Decisions tend to be about how I feel, not about what’s right no matter how I feel. Like someone quipped, “Few people make a deliberate choice between good and evil; the choice is between what we want to do and what we ought to do.” 

There are various Bible passages about we ought to do for making the right choices. For one thing, God not only gives us intelligence, sensibilities, and a will so that we may make our choices but commands us to make the right ones, as well. For example…

• • Deuteronomy 30:19: “I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live.” (English Standard Version, ESV)
  • Romans 12:2: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (ESV)
  • James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” (ESV)
  • Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” (ESV)

Joshua, the great military leader of Israel challenged his people, “Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve.” The choice he gave them was between God and the false god, Baal. Before they could even respond, Joshua couldn’t wait to announce his choice: “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15).

When we make our choice to serve the Lord, we do so with the right frame of mind and it primarily has to do with our love for God and for others. Jesus related this matter to the two greatest commands:

‘“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ ³⁸ This is the great and foremost commandment. ³⁹ The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ⁴⁰ Upon these two commandments hang the whole Law and the Prophets,” (Matthew 22:37-40).

Through love for God and others, we make our choices on God’s will taking first priority. If we make our choices this way, then we will have the right motive for doing so. Our choices are for giving God the glory that he is due to receive through all that we say or do. For he is our God and provider for our lives. In fact, we are instructed, “Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God,” (1 Corinthians 10:31; See also Colossians 3:23).

Proverbs 3:5-6 says,

⁵ Trust in the Lord with all your heart
And do not lean on your own understanding.
⁶ In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He will make your paths straight.

When it comes to making choices of any kind, we acknowledge God and trust him foremost with all our heart and mind. Then we won’t be taking a chance. Rather, we will be making a choice—the right one, at that.

Good News to YOU!
Pastor Michael
P.S. Here’s a song I’ve chosen sung by Julie Elias, “The Choice,”  https://youtu.be/LSOZPt6f6lw

He’s Still Got the Whole World in His Hands

When someone says “you’re in good hands,” you’re assured that a competent, qualified party will be able to take care of your situation at hand. You can have confidence knowing that the “good hands” you’re in are dependable, reliable, and trustworthy.

You often hear this phrase in commercials by insurance companies and other service-oriented businesses. One that immediately comes to mind is the Allstate Insurance Company. Since the 1950’s, the slogan, “You’re in good hands with Allstate,” has been incorporated into their marketing programs. This has been their cornerstone slogan to communicate how the company is dedicated to provide customer support and satisfaction.

There is a fascinating story about how Allstate’s slogan got started. Here’s how the story goes according to the company:

In 1950, Davis Ellis, an Allstate employee, experienced a pivotal family moment that inspired the creation of the “You’re in good hands” slogan. Ellis’s daughter, JoAnn, fell ill with hepatitis. The family physician, Dr. Cummings, called in a specialist named Dr. Keyser. When Ellis returned home from work, his wife, Helen, joyfully reported that JoAnn was “in good hands” with Dr. Keyser. Thankfully, JoAnn recovered, and this reassurance left a lasting impact on Ellis. (Allstate)

As the story continues, the thought that Ellis’s daughter was “in good hands” with her doctor came to Ellis’s mind later that year. It was during a late-night brainstorming session in which Ellis was part of the brainstorming group planning Allstate’s advertising. While trying to come up with a compelling slogan, Ellis remembered those words and how it brought the comfort he needed to hear about his daughter at the time. In fact, it’s said that he even came up with the idea of a pair of hands cradling a car. According to the company, Ellis’s suggestions were immediately adopted and the rest is history.  (Allstate)

As the company likes to say, the “good hands” slogan has come to symbolize protection. And when we think about the fact that God’s got the whole world in his hands, we likewise think of HIS protection, yet on an even greater and more wonderful scale.

Oh, and that brings something else to my mind: that spiritual song I can remember from my youth, “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands.” Although the song was first published in 1927 in a hymnal, it likely has its roots in African-American communities long before that.

What’s uplifting about the song is that the lyrics cover an array of elements that describe who or what are in the care of God’s good hands including everyone from babies to adults; all of God creatures; nature such as sun, moon, stars, land, sea; and the climate including the rain and the wind.

Now, you’ll notice that the song doesn’t specifically include a car or a house such as you’d see in the Allstate advertisements. But the lyrics of the old spiritual DO illustrate how all those elements that make up the world are indeed cradled in God’s good hands—and I’d say how God also provides the kind of coverage we need for car and house, as well (Philippians 4:19).

As we picture in our minds how the whole world is cradled in God’s hands, we turn to Job 12:7-12 (New American Standard Bible, NASB). where righteous Job declares (Note particularly, verse 10),  

⁷ “But just ask the animals, and have them teach you;
And the birds of the sky, and have them tell you.
⁸ Or speak to the earth, and have it teach you;
And have the fish of the sea tell you.
⁹ Who among all these does not know
That the hand of the Lord has done this,
¹⁰ In whose hand is the life of every living thing,
And the breath of all mankind?
¹¹ Does the ear not put words to the test,
As the palate tastes its food?
¹² Wisdom is with the aged,
And with long life comes understanding.

I believe the world would not be in the chaos it’s in if it would understand and accept what Job knew long ago—that we’re all in the hands of our Creator, God. Job, who knew about sorrow and suffering first hand, also knew he could rely on his Maker to hold him and uplift him through his troubles. And in God’s time, he did come to Job’s rescue with many more blessings than ever before (Job 42:10-17).

Trust, hope, assurance: These are all what you and I need to keep us progressing on our journey of life no matter the obstacles and pitfalls along the way. We can be confident of God’s help as we abide by faith in God’s good hands through his wonderful grace and truth. Other Bible passages carry this same thought (NASB):

• • Deuteronomy 33:27 “underneath are the everlasting arms”
  • 1 Chronicles 29:11-13 “in thy hand is power and might…to make great and to strengthen everyone”
  • Psalm 89:13-15 “thy hand is mighty”
  • Psalm 95:3-7 “in whose hand are the depths of the earth”
  • Ecclesiastes 9:1 “righteous men, wise men, and their deeds are in the hand of God”
  • Isaiah 41:10 “I will uphold you with my righteous right hand”

What’s even more reassuring is that God has a better plan for this whole world than the world can ever offer. For God gave his one and only Son, Jesus Christ, “to save the world” including us (John 12:47), to give us the hope of eternal life when Jesus comes again.

¹⁶“For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life, ¹⁷ For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world should be saved through him,” (John 3:16-17, NASB).

Jesus will come to cleanse the world of all its impurities and evil and bring in justice, peace and harmony over the entire earth restored as new—a.k.a., “the new heavens and new earth,” (Psalm 104:5; Ecclesiastes 1:4;  Isaiah 35; Habakkuk 2:14; Micah 4:1-5; Acts 3:19-21; 2 Peter 3:10-13; Revelation 21:1-5). That’s a promise guaranteed in God’s own Word.

Yes, God’s still got the whole world in his hands including you and me through Christ.

Good News to YOU!
Pastor Michael
P.S. Here’s a beautiful rendition of the song, “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands” – ACDA Honor Choirs & The Tabernacle Choir, https://youtu.be/Nn3J5Wx9fFo

The Solution to Delusion

 Here’s a catchy little ditty about delusions that caught my eye the other day….

In a day of illusions
And other confusions,
Upon their delusions
They base their conclusions.
(The Speaker’s Quote Book, Roy B. Zuck)

This short verse sparks a lot of thoughts about delusions and the negative impact which results.

I say negative because delusion is a false belief or opinion without clear evidence to the contrary. This leads to an abnormal mental state usually exhibited by paranoia, fear, mistrust, and hostility.

Question is, how might these conditions contribute to the cultural and moral breakdown of a society such as ours?

Given the unrest and outright hostility we witness on the news through the media and perhaps even from our own experience, we wonder to what effect delusions are contributing to these tendencies. Riots, violent attacks, destruction of property, hateful chants screaming for death and destruction, persecution of innocent lives—these are the disturbing realities going on now in our cities, on our streets, college campuses, and other public places. And that makes us wonder: Are these people suffering from delusions based on the wrong conclusions?

I was curious to know, for example, whether delusional thinking might have any bearing on the reason why certain “hate” groups are anti-Semitic. Apparently, there’s some credence to that possibility.  

In my research, I see that delusion plays a multifaceted role in anti-Semitism thus contributing to the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes and negative views about Jewish people. This is nothing new, however. History shows where Jews have suffered discrimination, persecution, and violence due to false beliefs. World Jewish Congress (WJC) reports,

Throughout history, the Jewish people have often been accused of heinous crimes and of being the cause of society’s problems, especially tragedies—whether health, economic or political—that were difficult, if not impossible, to explain. But antisemities have also alleged that Jews, who account for only 0.2% of the world’s population, also control banks, the media, politicians, and global institutions. This phenomenon isn’t only deeply problematic; it is antisemitic. 

There’s even some debate that Diversity, Equity, Inclusion (DEI) programs, favored by Jews who desire better representation among oppressed groups, can ironically spread anti-Semitic sentiment. According to the Jewish Journal,

Moving away from engage-and-influence would, of course, necessitate a painful tradeoff for the Jewish community. In the short term, engaging coercive DEI programs allows us to influence the way these programs portray Jews. In the long term, however, engaging DEI programs props up an illiberal ideology on which these programs are based and spreads antisemitic sentiment.

By the way, DEI is in itself somewhat delusional if you consider the Marxist elements within its ideology. Marxism is antithetic to Christianity in that Marxism is inherently atheistic, advocates the abolition of religion and assumes the state (government) as god-like authority, society as a collective where everyone gives to the whole, including the abolition of private property. (See, “The Marxist Roots of DEI – Session 1: Equity | James Lindsay,”  https://youtu.be/xbby7yFrIxM .)

In fact, the argument is made that DEI is a failed delusion since it’s just a rehash of Marxism’s demands which also fails to meet the same outcomes  (Real Clear Education); (also, blog post by Professor Jordan B. Peterson, “Equity: When the Left Goes Too Far”).

The Bible warns that in the final days of this present evil age just prior to Jesus’ coming, there will be “strong delusion.” There are numerous passages connected with this prophetic sign to warn believers and prepare us for the Lord’s return. For example, one that stands out is Second Thessalonians 2:11-12 (King James Version, KJV),

¹¹ And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:
¹² That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

In the New American Standard Bible, NASB, “strong delusion” is called a “deluding influence.” Here, it speaks of a strong delusion as a consequence of rejecting the truth and embracing wickedness.¹

When people persist in unrighteousness, including denial of Biblical truth, God gives them over to their own delusions and, hence, just what they deserve (Romans 1:18-32). Lawlessness results when even the most sincere persons, including self-professing Christians, are deceived by what the secular world wants them to believe, not what God says to believe. They are living under a “deluding influence.”

The Bible says this falling away (“apostasy”) from God’s truth will lead to the “man of lawlessness” (also labeled, “the antichrist,” (1 John 4:3; 2 John 7; “the beast,” Revelation 13:1-10) who will usurp power and even call himself, “God.” He will use all kinds of deception (“power, signs, and lying wonders”) to attract his followers (2 Thessalonians 2:1-10) and at the same time, condemn those who do not give in to him.

Here are some other Bible references relating to the delusions of the world:

1. Isaiah 66:4:
   • “So I will choose their punishments And will bring on them what they dread. Because I called, but no one answered; I spoke, but they did not listen. And they did evil in My sight And chose that in which I did not delight.”
   • This verse highlights the consequences of ignoring divine guidance and persisting in wrongdoing, leading to a state of delusion¹.
2. Micah 2:11:
   • “If a man walking after wind and falsehood had told lies and said, ‘I will speak out to you concerning wine and liquor,’ He would be spokesman to this people.”
   • Here, it emphasizes the deceptive nature of false teachings and misguided beliefs¹.
3. Romans 1:28:
   • “And just as they did not see fit to acknowledge God any longer, God gave them over to a depraved mind, to do those things which are not proper.”
   • This verse suggests that rejecting God’s truth can lead to a depraved mind and delusional thinking¹.
4. Jeremiah 23:21:
   • “I did not send these prophets, But they ran. I did not speak to them, But they prophesied.”
   • It warns against false prophets who spread delusional messages without divine authority¹.
5. Exodus 10:20:
   • “But the Lord hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he did not let the sons of Israel go.”
   • The story of Pharaoh illustrates how stubbornness and delusion can prevent one from recognizing divine truth¹.
6. 2 Timothy 3:13:
   • “But evil men and impostors will proceed from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.”
   • This verse acknowledges the existence of deceptive spirits and the danger of falling into delusional beliefs¹.

As you can see from this brief study, the real solution to delusion is by heeding the Word of God and making sure our lives are built on Jesus Christ, God’s Son. He’s the Good News for us to follow for he is our perfect Source for understanding truth and claiming the reward of eternal life when he returns. As the Apostle John warned the Church in Second John 8-9, so we are warned as well:

⁸ Watch yourselves, that you do not lose what we have accomplished, but that you may receive a full reward. ⁹ Anyone who goes too far and does not remain in the teaching of Christ, does not have God; the one who remains in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. (NASB)

Good News to YOU!
Pastor Michael
P.S. Our love for truth through Christ is the true solution to the world’s delusions today. Here’s a beautiful song by Dylan Woodward, “A Love for Truth,” https://youtu.be/F_lZZJd_Cmg 

Letting Go of Holding Grudges

There’s a lesson that recounts a simple yet profound tale about grudges. The old farmer, steadfast and weathered, plows his fields with a mule. A visitor, perhaps well-intentioned, offers unsolicited advice: “Use ‘Gee’ and ‘Haw’ commands instead of tugging on the reins.” Practical wisdom, it seems.

But the farmer’s response reveals more than mere stubbornness. His mule, once a source of pain, had kicked him years ago. Since then, silence has been their language. A grudge, like a heavy stone, rests upon the farmer’s heart.

Yet consider this: The grudge weighs heavier on the one who clings to it. The mule, oblivious, pulls the plow, unburdened by resentment. The farmer, however, carries the weight of memory—the sting of that long-ago kick.

In life’s fields, we encounter our own mules—those who hurt us, intentionally or not. We face choices: to forgive, to release the grudge, or to carry it like a shadow. Perhaps the mule knows nothing of forgiveness, but the farmer does. His silence speaks louder than words.

So let us learn from the old farmer. Let us unclench our fists, untie the knots of bitterness, and let go. For in releasing the grudge, we free ourselves. And perhaps, just perhaps, we find that healing is sweeter than revenge. (Pulpit Helps)

One has to conclude from this story that the farmer was more stubborn than his mule for not letting go of the grudge he was holding. And, as it’s pointed out, that stubbornness led to a heavier burden on him than his animal could ever bear. The only way that load could be lifted from the farmer was to throw it off his shoulders through forgiveness by putting the past behind him, moving forward, and breaking the silence that kept him in bitterness and pain.

In Ephesian 4:31-32 the Apostle Paul gives this wise advice to anyone who can identify with this farmer and the solution for letting go of holding grudges:

³¹ All bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and slander must be removed from you, along with all malice. ³² Be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you. (New American Standard Bible, NASB).

Notice that letting go of grudges starts with believing God. Those who do not believe in God or simply question whether or not he exists are rejecting the solution to the problem. Truth is, unbelievers and doubters do not have the advantages that believers have when dealing with grudges.

Furthermore, it’s essential to believe that God gave his Son, Jesus Christ, to save us from our sins. Christ took our sins upon him when he died on the cross (Isaiah 53:5-12; Romans 5:6-8). And when we are converted to him, we are set free from the burdens that weigh us down such as bitterness and resentment. When we ask God forgiveness through Christ, we’re able to put the past behind and move ahead through God’s grace and truth (Philippians 3:13-16).

When this is applied through forgiveness and love, one will be amazed at the results—how it breaks the silence and opens up communication—thus healing the deepest of wounds and hurt feelings that have been there for too long (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). It definitely makes the plowing of daily life much less of a burden, for sure. In fact, Jesus takes the burden for us if we ask him (Matthew 11:28-30). And to top it all off, eternal life awaits those who’ve accepted Jesus the Christ as their Lord and Savior (John 3:16; 1 John 5:10-13).

Day after day there’s a lot of sad news about persons who hold grudges and the harm that comes to themselves and others as a result of it. But God through his Son provides the answer to troubled souls tormented in this way. Like that farmer they refuse to follow a better way—THE way that will bring blessings God wants to provide (John 14:6, 27).

I think it’s time to break the silence and humbly follow God’s instructions for a better life.

Good News to YOU!
Pastor Michael
P. S. Here’s a timely song titled, “No Grudge,” with catchy rhythm and meaningful lyrics by Bj’orn Pierre based on Ephesians 4:31-32, https://youtu.be/9_RmYcuTTp8.

‘The Apple of God’s Eye’

Escalation of war in the Middle East continues to be a threat to the world. We watched this demonstrated during Iran’s unprecedented direct airstrike attack on Israel last Saturday, April 13. That’s when Iran reportedly launched more than 300 cruise missiles and drones at Israel, according to Israel Defense Forces (IDF) officials. (The Times of Israel)

It’s claimed the attack was retaliatory after an Israeli airstrike on the Iranian consular building in Damascus, Syria, on April 1. At least three senior commanders and four officers overseeing Iran’s covert operations in the Middle East were reportedly killed at the time. (The New York Times)

While Israelis hunkered down and took shelter during the attack, explosions could be seen in the sky overhead above Jerusalem as air sirens blasted throughout the country.

In the aftermath of the attack, Israelis can be thankful it didn’t turn out worse. All things considered, damage was minimal and there were no casualties. The IDF considered their defensive measures were a major success. (Sky News) In essence, Israel was well-prepared for such an attack.

According to various news reports,

• Half of the missiles Iran fired at Israel failed on launch or malfunctioned, and crashed. Around 50% of Iran’s 120 ballistic missiles failed to launch in flight. (MSN.com)
• Israel intercepted 99% of the more than 300 projectiles launched by Iran, IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari said according to NBC News.
• A Bedouin child was severely injured by shrapnel. But there were no immediate reports of other Israeli injuries or deaths, Hagari said. (NBC News.) Otherwise, no fatalities at all, reports say.
• Some missiles reportedly struck a military base in the south of Israel but with minor damage. (NBC News)
• Israel’s advanced air defense systems such as the Iron Dome, David’s Sling, Arrow 3 (Newsmax) were most instrumental in protecting Israel. (MSN.com contributed by Fox News)
• In addition, Israel received assistance from Jordan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, helping to neutralize Iran’s military and saving many lives. (MSN.com)
• A Newsmax headline says, Reports: US, UK Fighter Jets Down More Than 100 Iranian Drones. US Destroys Over 80 Iranian Missiles, Drones Headed Toward Israel.

As I see it, all of these incidents provide ample evidence that Somebody bigger than you and I was watching out for Israel during the attack. I think you know who I mean. And it brings me to recall a verse in the Bible that calls Israel, “the apple of God’s eye.” Deuteronomy 32:10 says,

He found him in a desert land,
And in the howling wasteland of a wilderness;
He encircled him, He cared for him,
He guarded him as the apple of His eye. (New American Standard Bible, NASB)

Deuteronomy 32:1-43 is called, “The Song of Moses.” It’s both poetic and prophetic. Moses taught it to Israel before his death to give them something to remember in regard to (1) God’s glory for being Israel’s Rock of truth; (2) God’s care for his covenant people; and (3) his warnings for Israel to obey and trust the Lord.

Keep in mind, this song was given after Israel’s forty years of wandering in the wilderness and just preceding their entrance into the Promised Land. It was also near the end of Moses’ life. All throughout that time, God was preparing his people, establishing his laws and regulations for functioning as his nation in the land of their inheritance.

In Deuteronomy 32:10, Moses uses a metaphor to describe God’s tender, loving, care for his beloved people: “the apple of His eye.” The literal translation of this term is, “the pupil of his eye.” In other words, Israel is precious and unique in God’s eyes. It’s an endearing description of God’s love and protective care for his people.

Other verses similarly express this tender scene: Psalm 17:8, “Keep me as the apple, the daughter of the eye…” (Young’s Literal Translation);  Zechariah 2:8 refers to the “aperture” or “gate” of the eye, a.k.a., “the pupil of the eye.” (Israel My Glory) Again, this expresses God’s close eye for Israel’s welfare and protection.

As cited in the ways God watched over Israel during the Iranian attack, God’s watchful eye upon Israel continues to this day. This doesn’t mean Israel won’t face future suffering and persecution by other nations. The Bible predicts as much in this present evil age (Ezekiel, chapters 37-38; Zechariah 12:3; Joel 3:1-2; Revelation 16:13-16).

But “the apple of God’s eye” does vividly reflect upon God’s relationship with Israel. It’s so unique that God cherishes Israel like a loving husband who protects and provides for his beloved wife—this in spite of those times she has not made God very happy (Isaiah 54:4-8; 62:1-5).

In due time, however, Israel will finally learn to accept God’s tender mercy. In fact, prophecy indicates Israel will be blessed and exalted among all the nations of the world when they confess Jesus as their Messiah and Son of God (Jeremiah 31:31-34; Matthew 23:37-39; Revelation 1:7). And then the whole world will be blessed (Genesis 22:18; Psalm 86:9; Isaiah 9:2-7; 42:1-4; 49:6).

In the meantime, we closely watch the developments in the Middle East, especially Israel, in view of the teachings of God’s true Word and the Good News it reveals. 

Good News to YOU!
Pastor Michael
P.S. Here’s The Apple of His Eye: Beautiful Song of Praise from Jehoshaphat Music,  https://youtu.be/4khx7_lbNtg

Repairer of the Breach

We were alarmed about two and a half weeks ago upon hearing the news that a ship collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.

On March 26, the 985 feet long container ship named Dali reportedly lost power and crashed into the iconic bridge which led to a breach that caused a significant part of it to collapse into the Patapsco River.

The tragedy was costly in more ways than one. The worst of it was that lives were lost.

Six construction workers on the bridge at the time are said to have fallen to their deaths. At this writing, it’s reported that the bodies of two victims have been recovered but the other four remain missing and presumed dead (msn.com).

Add to this the billions of dollars in insurance loss; millions of dollars in emergency funds and cleanup; global chain supplies disrupted since the incident caused the Port of Baltimore to close; rerouting of traffic; and the legal aftermath of it, as well. According to reports, it will take several years—up to five to seven years—to repair the breach and get everything back to normal again. (Baltimore Sun)

The whole scene stands as a vivid reminder of the way tragedy leaves a breach that can instantly alter our lives in various ways. Like that bridge, we’re standing one minute, tall and strong. But the next minute, something unexpected happens. We’re hit with a tragedy and we go crashing down in despair and grief.

What we need is a repairer of the breach—someone who can quickly step in and rebuild that bridge and get us back on our feet again. In due time, normalcy is possible but until then, we seek the help of someone who will encourage us and give us the strength we need until this challenge of restoration is met.

There’s a Bible passage that comes to mind as I think about this need: Isaiah 58:12.

And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in. (King James Version, KJV)

This was written to those Jews who had returned from Babylonian captivity and settled back to their homeland. This was made possible because Persia rose to power and defeated the Babylonian empire in 539 BCE. Previously, Persian Kings Cyrus and Darius granted the Jews permission to return to their land and restore the damage that was done in their land during their 70-year captivity.

The rebuilding process included the Holy Temple, their center of worship, and the walls that had protected the city. But all of this took many years to accomplish. For one reason, the non-Jewish people who were then occupying the land were resisting their efforts. And, another reason is because the returned Jews often lacked the motivation to work, particularly when it came to rebuilding the Temple. They were too busy taking care of rebuilding their own homes and towns.

When Isaiah chapter 58 took place, the Temple had already been rebuilt and regular worship was observed for about fifty years. But because the Jews were still continuing “to struggle with Idolatry (57:1-13); hypocrisy (ch. 58), injustice (59:1-8) and spiritual malaise (64:1-7),” (New Illustrated Bible Commentary), there was still a lot more to do to restore them to the people God called them to be. Violence and dissention were causing an unstable economy (Nehemiah 5:1-8) and sky-rocketing taxes (Nehemiah 5:4, 15). And the walls of Jerusalem that had been destroyed still needed rebuilding.

Enter the Persian King Artaxerxes who seized control of the chaos. God, of course, was the one who was ultimately in control of the King just as he was when Cyrus and Darius were in power. It was through the Prophet Isaiah that God spoke loud and clear concerning his challenge to get on  with the work and repair the breach that still needed to be finished according to his plans.

In Isaiah 58:12, we see how God challenges not only his own people to repair the breach left by those who oppose him and his holy standards. He also uses leaders and others who may not necessarily be among his special people. In this case, if his people don’t step in, then he calls persons like King Artaxerxes, a Persian no less, to be, “the repairer of the breach; the restorer of paths to dwell in.”

One Bible commentary says,

“Artaxerxes’ destiny to fulfill the assignments first given to Cyrus (Isa. 44:26; 45:13) and to Darius, his grandfather (49:8b-9a) will come about when he has acted to meet these social and economic needs. Age-old ruins in Jerusalem will be rebuilt and foundations of walls generations old will be raised up. His reputation will include the title Repairer of the Breach in Jerusalem’s walls, as well as Restorer of paths in which to dwell. That is, urban development in Jerusalem and in the villages of Judah will be attributed to him. Ezra 4:7-24 and Nehemiah 2:1-9 attribute the work of Ezra and Nehemiah in part to the support of Artaxerxes,” (Word Biblical Commentary).

God continues to use people today to be “Repairers of the breach.” That’s because God has a plan that concerns his people and his work and his coming Kingdom. As conditions and events continue to develop regarding the fulfillment of his grand and glorious plan, it’s our aim as Christians to follow that plan—the plan of his salvation—not work against it. We don’t want to ignore it and fall into the kind of rebellion that led others in Isaiah’s day away from the Lord.

The breach we’re challenged with comes down to sin. It’s the reason we go through hardship and grief. It’s the culprit that weakens and destroys and leaves a wide gap between us and God our Creator. But there IS Someone who bridges that gap and repairs that breach and rebuilds our lives to be even better than before. I’m referring to God’s only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. First Timothy 2:5-6 says,

“⁵ For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, ⁶ who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time,” (New American Standard Bible, NASB).

Jesus is the ultimate “Repairer of the breach,” who will indeed restore us and make our lives worth living as we confess him as Lord and Savior of our lives and put our faith in God through him.

Good News to YOU!
Pastor Michael
P.S. Here’s Casting Crowns singing, “The Bridge,” https://youtu.be/odxPj1_LuMQ

Living Under God’s Wonder-Working Power

I was researching the amazing ways God works through his Power (a.k.a., The Holy Spirit). In the process, when I picked up one of my sermon illustration books, I came across something inside the front cover that piqued my interest.

There, folded in half, I found an old typewritten sheet of paper with a story that just happened (Not a coincidence, I’m sure.) to relate to the subject I was researching. It’s amusing in some way, and its veracity could even be questioned. Yet it has a neat message that demonstrates God’s wonder-working Power whether you believe the story or not:

Dwight Nelson [?] recently told a true story about the pastor of his church. He had a kitten that climbed up a tree in his backyard and then was afraid to come down. The pastor coaxed, offered warm milk, etc.

The kitty would not come down. The tree was not sturdy enough to climb, so the pastor decided that if he tied a rope to his car and pulled it until the tree bent down, he could then reach up and get the kitten.

That’s what he did, all the while checking his progress in the car. He then figured if he went just a little bit further, the tree would be bent sufficiently for him to reach the kitten. But as he moved the car a little further forward, the rope broke.

The tree went ‘boing!’ and the kitten instantly sailed through the air – out of sight.

The pastor felt terrible. He walked all over the neighborhood asking people if they’d seen a little kitten. No. Nobody had seen a stray kitten.

So he prayed, ‘Lord, I just commit this kitten to your keeping,’ and went on about his business.

A few days later he was at the grocery store, and met one of his church members. He happened to look into her shopping cart and was amazed to see cat food.

This woman was a cat hater and everyone knew it, so he asked her, ‘Why are you buying cat food when you hate cats so much?’ She replied, ‘You won’t believe this,’ and then told him how her little girl had been begging her for a cat, but she kept refusing.

Then a few days before, the child had begged again, so the Mom finally told her little girl, ‘Well, if God gives you a cat, I’ll let you keep it.’

She told the pastor, ‘I watched my child go out in the yard, get on her knees, and ask God for a cat. And really, Pastor, you won’t believe this, but I saw it with my own eyes. A kitten suddenly came flying out of the blue sky, with its paws outspread, and landed right in front of her.’

Lesson learned… Never underestimate the Power of God and His unique sense of humor.

This story has been called an “Urban Legend” and other versions have allegedly been in circulation since the 1980’s according to Snopes. under the title, “Catapulted Cat,” by Barbara Mikkelson.

But whatever there is to learn from this story, there is one thing for certain: God’s Power can never be underestimated.

In an article by Our Daily Bread Ministries, God’s Power is compared to a grand symphony. Every note of God’s work is unique. It creates “a harmonious masterpiece” in at least five different ways. With this list, I’ve inserted some Bible passages for you to click on to verify these examples:

1. Supernatural Works: God still performs supernatural feats. He orchestrates events beyond our comprehension, weaving miracles into our lives. These divine interventions leave us in awe and wonder. (Deuteronomy 3:24; Job 5:8-9; Psalm 77:14; Matthew 19:26)
2. Life Transformations: God’s power dramatically changes lives. Like a sculptor shaping raw stone into a masterpiece, He molds our hearts, renewing our minds and spirits. The once broken find healing, the lost discover purpose, and the hopeless receive hope. (Psalm 51:10-12; Acts 2:38-39; Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Galatians 5:16-24)
3. Influencing Events: God’s hand subtly guides events. He aligns circumstances, opens doors, and closes others. Sometimes, what seems coincidental is actually His divine orchestration, leading us toward His purpose. (1 Chronicles 29:12; Isaiah 45:7; Romans 8:28)
4. Answered Prayers: God responds to our heartfelt cries. He provides, heals, and directs. When we receive answers to our prayers, it’s not mere coincidence—it’s His powerful touch. (Matthew 7:7; Ephesians 3:20; 1 John 5:14)
5. Remember the Source: As we rejoice in what we receive, let’s remember that every good gift comes from God. Whether it’s provision, healing, or hope, it’s His grace at work. (Philippians 2:13; 4:13; Hebrews 13:20-21; James 1:17)

The article includes this wise insight,

“God’s power has often been misunderstood….In other words, we tend to think of God’s power in terms of physical strength, omniscient knowledge, or as a wealth of resources at His disposal. But the power of God is demonstrated by His ability to accomplish His will in every situation, both real and potential, through any means He chooses in order to glorify Himself. God’s power is centered on His will and His glory. We just need to know where to look.”

Certainly, God’s infallible Word comes to mind on where to look. Hebrews 4:12 says,

“For the Word of God is living and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart,” (21st Century King James Version).

I also add another wonderful way God’s Power is revealed. The Apostle Paul says in Philippians 3:10-11,

^“ 10 …that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; ¹¹ if somehow I may attain to the resurrection from the dead,” (New American Standard Bible, NASB).

Paul the Apostle not only displayed all the above five examples in his own life in Christ, but he testifies of his hope in the Power of the resurrection when Jesus returns in Power and Glory. That’s the kind of wonder-working Power that sees us through any suffering or sorrow we experience in this mortal life.

Last Sunday, Christian believers celebrated the real and genuine truth of Jesus’ resurrection from death to life immortal. Through his Power, God brought his Son to life again (Acts 2:24, 32; Romans 8:11; 10:9). And not only that, all the dead in Christ will be raised to immortal life through that same wonder-working Power when Jesus comes again (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).

To some doubters the truth of God’s Power and how it works might sound unbelievable and not taken seriously like the story of the “Catapulted Cat.” But the Christian faithful don’t need to question God’s wonder-working Power because we’ve experienced it ourselves in more ways than one. All it starts with is that child-like faith like the kind that led the little girl to simply pray for a cat. And we can expect even greater things to come by the Power he reveals in us!

Good News to YOU!
Pastor Michael
P.S.  The wonder-working Power we claim as believers comes only through the One who shed his blood that we might live eternally —Jesus Christ, God’s Son (Hebrews 9:14). Here’s the Smoky Mountain Jubilee Choir singing one of my most favorite hymns, “There Is Power in the Blood,” https://youtu.be/y2VhXwpANgI

Christ the First-fruit—What it means for YOU!

²⁰But now Christ has been raised out from the dead, the firstfruit of those having fallen asleep. ²¹For since death came by a man, so also by a man has come the resurrection of the dead. ²²For as indeed in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive. ²³But each in the own order: Christ the firstfruit, then those of Christ at His coming, (1 Corinthians 15:20-23, Berean Literal Bible, BLB).

Christians all over the world will soon celebrate one of the holiest days of the year—the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. This sacred day is the climax of Passion week that began with Palm Sunday one week earlier when Jesus entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey and hailed as Savior of the Jews. But within days, Jesus was rejected by the Jewish leaders and their supporters who mocked him and had him  beaten, whipped, and finally crucified on the cross upon which he died.

Although Jesus himself was without any sin or wrong doing, the Bible says he took our sins upon him thus sparing all those who believe in him from eternal death (2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 4:15; 1 Peter 2:22-25). Thus, Jesus gives all those faithful in him the hope of receiving eternal life.

The Apostle Peter called it a “living hope” because Christ is our living Lord who will give life to all who confess him as the Son of God, Savior and Lord of their lives. In his greeting to the scattered Christians throughout Asia Minor (modern day Turkey) and everywhere else, the apostle wrote,

 ³ Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, (1 Peter 1:3, New American Standard Bible, NASB).

Note Peter’s connection of a “living hope” with Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. This underscores the point that the Apostle Paul was making in his remarks in First Corinthians 15, also known as “The Resurrection Chapter.” The title of this chapter is appropriately called, “The Fact of Christ’s Resurrection.” Here, Paul sets out to prove beyond a shadow of doubt that God, indeed, raised Jesus from the dead and what this means to the Church (1 Corinthians 15:1-4).

In the context of this chapter, Paul makes a reference to the order of resurrection according to God’s plan for those in Christ. The very first feature in this order is when God raised Christ [or, Messiah] from the dead, whom he calls, “the first-fruit [other translations read, “first-fruits”] of them that slept.”

What did he mean by “first-fruit”? According to the Pictorial Bible Dictionary, “first fruits” were,

“In acknowledgement of the fact that all the products of the land came from God, and thankfulness for His goodness, Israelites brought as an offering to Him a portion of the fruits that ripened first, these being looked upon as an earnest of the coming harvest. Such an offering was made both on behalf of the nation (Leviticus 23:10, 17) and by individuals (Exodus 23:19; Deuteronomy 26:1-11). These first fruits went for the support of the priesthood.”

To apply this phrase to the risen Lord, the Apostle Paul was saying that Christ Jesus is like the first-fruit of the harvest, the first person resurrected from death to immortality by God (Romans 6:9).  Other persons, like Lazarus (John 11:38-44), were previously raised from the dead before but they were not raised to immorality. The next event in this resurrection order is the great harvest when all those “in Christ” will be raised to receive immortality at that time (Psalm 126:4-6; John 4:35-36). In First Corinthians 6:14, Paul said to his fellow Christians,

“Now God has not only raised the Lord, but will also raise us up through His power,” (NASB).

What a wonderful promise! It’s why we call it the Good News. We can have victory over the power of sin and death because Jesus is the “first-fruit” among those who’ve died and are asleep in their graves until he comes again. As Paul pointed out, it’s on account of Adam the first man who sinned that we all suffer the penalty of sin which results in death. So, it took the second or “last Adam”—in other words, Jesus Christ—whom God gave, to free us from the curse of sin and death when our Savior comes again (1 Corinthians 15:45-49).

While we mortals know that death is imminent (Ecclesiastes 3:20; 9:2-4; Hebrews 9:27), we as believers likewise know that “in Christ all shall be made alive.” In God’s order, Christ the first-fruit has risen first as our example and then the next time he will raise the rest of “those who are Christ’s at his coming,” (1 Corinthians 15:23).

According to the Bible, no one has received the reward of immortality as yet. The dead are in a state of rest in an unconscious sleep, just as the Scripture says (Psalm 146:4; Ecclesiastes 9:4-6, 10; John 11:11-13).

The fact that Jesus is the first-fruit of those who have fallen asleep gives us the reason to be comforted when someone—especially someone close to us—succumbs to the enemy, death. Paul shared this in First Thessalonians 4:13-18,

¹³ But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about those who are asleep [in death], so that you will not grieve as indeed the rest of mankind do, who have no hope. ¹⁴ For if we believe that Jesus died and rose from the dead, so also God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep [in death] through Jesus. ¹⁵ For we say this to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will not precede those who have fallen asleep. ¹⁶ For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. ¹⁷ Then we who are alive, who remain, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. ¹⁸ Therefore, comfort one another with these words. (NASB)

Paul also offered this comfort and reassurance at the end of his “Resurrection Chapter” when he declared,

“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord,” (1 Corinthians 15:57-58, NASB).

Without Christ, we are lost; with him we are found (Luke 15:24; 19:10). The Lord invites each one to come to him (Revelation 22:16-17), to receive him through faith (Romans 10:17; Ephesians 2:8-9), repentance (Matthew 3:2; Acts 2:38), and baptism (Mark 16:15-16; Romans 6:1-11; Galatians 3:27), as we look forward to that Great Day. As surely as Christ is the first-fruit of those who are asleep, we can be completely confident he will come back to complete the Harvest! Hallelujah! Amen!

Good News to YOU!
And have a most blessed Resurrection Sunday!
Pastor Michael
P.S. Here’s a timely song that reminds us, “Christ the First-fruits,” https://youtu.be/M1e9hQTOByg

A Time to Rejoice!

At a time when Israel is still at war with terrorists since last October 7, and under a lot of heat even by those supposed to be their closest allies, we could hardly call this a time to rejoice. Rather, it’s a time for distress, division, and downright deceit, not to speak of death and destruction no matter whose side one is on. And it doesn’t appear to be getting any better very soon—just worse.  

I noticed in the news where Israeli spokeswoman, Tal Heinrich, said that, “Either you’re with us or you’re with terrorists.” The comment came after US President Joe Biden and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., made some serious demands against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli government.

Schumer even called for a “new election” labeling the Prime Minister, an “obstacle to peace,” according to latest news reports. Thus, more fuel was added to the fire that was already raging in the Middle East.

On the other hand, we should not be too surprised that if there was a time to rejoice it’s among the terrorists and all their sympathizers who hate Israel and want to see the nation destroyed. I wouldn’t doubt they’re cheering with delight to see more people attacking Israel’s leader and their government, especially from someone like Schumer, Washington’s highest-ranking Jewish official. Ironical, isn’t it?

Not only that, we can be sure that most if not all of Israel’s enemies would like to see freedom-loving, God-worshiping, patriotic Americans who back the Jewish nation go down in the process, as well.

Now, I know that doesn’t sound like Good News. And, I confess, it isn’t. But, as they say, it’s always darkest before the dawn. “So, what’s the dawn beyond the dark? You might ask.”

I believe you have to go back about two millennia ago, to a place in Israel—the City of Jerusalem. It was there that a grand event took place. It’s called,  “The Triumphal Entry.” It was then that a very famous man many called a “prophet” came riding into the city on a donkey attracting a lot of people. The crowd gathered there looked on with great praise and expectation. The man of the hour was Jesus of Nazareth.

A great crowd was lining the street cheering Jesus as their hero. They waved palm branches, and spread them and their cloaks on the street as was the custom for honoring kings in those days. The people were excited, joyfully shouting, “Hosanna,” to him which means, “Save us!” Here’s the way Matthew described it:

⁸ Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others were cutting branches from the trees and spreading them on the road. ⁹ Now the crowds going ahead of Him, and those who followed, were shouting,
“Hosanna to the Son of David;
Blessed is the One who comes in the name of the Lord;
Hosanna in the highest!”
¹⁰ When He had entered Jerusalem, all the city was stirred, saying, “Who is this?” ¹¹ And the crowds were saying, “This is Jesus the prophet, from Nazareth in Galilee.” (Matthew 21:8-11, New American Standard Bible, NASB).

Rejoicing was in the air that day we now call, “Palm Sunday.” The occasion signifies something wonderful to come that is worth our rejoicing. And in these perilous times of “wars and rumors of wars” (Matthew 24:6-8) we desperately need it—especially in the midst of the war going on in the Middle East today. Why? Because Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem that day gives us a glimpse of hope we have for the future—hope beyond the suffering and loss that grieves us now. That first Palm Sunday is but a small taste of the REAL rejoicing that will come in God’s time.

Speaking of time, it’s like we’re told in Ecclesiastes 7:4 and 8,

⁴ A time to weep and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn and a time to dance.
⁸ A time to love and a time to hate;
A time for war and a time for peace. (NASB)

Palm Sunday reminds us that a better time is coming. Sorrow will turn into permanent joy on the Great Day that Jesus Christ returns and enters Jerusalem the next time. For Jesus will then fulfill the promise of the ages—to reign as King of kings, and Lord of lords over Israel and all the nations. He will defeat the terrorists; put a final end to all evil; and grant eternal life to all the faithful in him, according to the Scriptures. Peace will come. And we can rejoice!

Psalm 118:24-26,
²⁴ This is the day which the Lord has made;
Let’s rejoice and be glad in it.
²⁵ Please, O Lord, do save us;
Please, O Lord, do send prosperity!
²⁶ Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord;
We have blessed you from the house of the Lord. (NASB)

Good News to YOU!
And have a blessed Palm Sunday!
Pastor Michael

P.S. Great rejoicing will take place on the day when Jesus comes again in the name of the Lord. Here’s a Palm Sunday song, “Hosanna,” depicting the kind of joy believers have to look forward to when his Day comes: https://youtu.be/YApEIjvE6S4

One Day at a Time

Charlie Brown is at bat. STRIKE THREE. He had struck out again and slumps over to the bench. “Rats! I’ll never be a big-league player. I just don’t have it! All my life I’ve dreamed of playing in the big leagues, but I know I’ll never make it.”

Lucy turns to console him. “Charlie Brown, you’re thinking too far ahead. What you need to do is set yourself more immediate goals.”

He looks up. “Immediate goals?”

Lucy says, “Yes. Start with this next inning when you go out to pitch. See if you can walk out on the mound without falling down!” (PEANUTS, Charles Shultz)

Lucy made a good point with Charlie Brown. You can’t expect to reach your far ranging goals without reaching your immediate goals first. And when it comes to tomorrow’s plans, you can only take them one day at a time. It starts with today.

Charlie’s problem was that he was so anxious about “thinking too far ahead,” as Lucy said, that he couldn’t achieve what he want to do in the game that day. It reminds me of what Jesus said:

“Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble,” (Matthew 6:34, English Standard Version, ESV).

In essence, Jesus is telling us the same thing Lucy told Charlie Brown. Don’t get overburdened worrying about tomorrow and its troubles. You have enough to take care of today. Your first goal is to make the best for today. Tomorrow’s another day.

We can avoid getting stressed out thinking about our future goals by working on our immediate goals first. One immediate goal is that we can put our trust in the Lord. Proverbs 3:5-6 says,

⁵“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. ⁶In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths,” (ESV).

Another achievable goal we can make now and each day is prayer. It’s a great way to start each day to find peace of mind. Philippians 4:6-7,

⁶“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. ⁷And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus,” (ESV).

Jesus tells us that if we make seeking God’s Kingdom our priority each day, we’re more likely to have a happier future. It includes putting God and his principles first, one day at a time. He said,

²⁵“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? ²⁶Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? ²⁷And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? ²⁸And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, ²⁹yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these….³³ But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you,” (Matthew 6:25-29, 33, ESV).

If we follow these principles one day at a time, then we will not only reach our immediate goals, but we will be more apt to reach our future goals as well. Speaking of this, an old song in our church’s hymnbook comes to mind— “Just for Today” (Words: Sybil F. Partridge; Music: Horatio R. Palmer):

Lord for tomorrow and its needs
I do not pray:
Keep me, my God from stain of sin
Just for today.
Help me to labor earnestly,
And duly pray;
Let me be kind in word and deed,
Father, today.

Let me no wrong or idle word
Unthinking say;
Set Thou a seal upon my lips
Thru all today.
Let me in season, Lord be grave,
In season gay [see * below];
Let me be faithful to Thy grace,
Dear Lord, today.

And if, today, this life of mine
Should ebb away,
Give me Thy resurrection hope,
Father, today.
So for tomorrow and its needs
I do not pray;
Still keep me, guide me, love me, Lord,
Through each today.
Amen.

In summary … [*] The overall message of these lines is a prayer for guidance in behaving appropriately, whether it’s being serious [grave] or joyful [gay], and seeking the Lord’s help in doing so—just for today¹².

Lucy’s advice to Charlie Brown teaches us what it means to take it one day at a time or, in his case, one inning at a time without falling down. The game of life goes better that way for us, too, if we seek God’s help, one day at a time.

Good News to YOU!
Pastor Michael
P.S. Here’s Lynda Randle singing, “One Day At a Time,” https://youtu.be/JhUvFqOY00I