Fields United Methodist Church

Day 33.  Take time to Be Holy

May 11, 2020

“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

Read: Philippians 4:10-23

As we were preparing for our mission trip to Joplin, Missouri to help those impacted by the F-5 tornado that devastated the town, a scripture came to mind that was our theme for the week; “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” We had no idea what we were going to do and only saw pictures of what we may be experiencing, but we put our whole trust and faith in the One who gave us all we needed to be the hand of Christ in that region and came away with far more faith, resolve, and strength than we ever imagined. Most all of us, if not all of us, have never lived through such a time as we are living in our nation today; businesses closed, parks and sports events closed, in-person worship not happening; all the while families are going through other illness beyond COVID19 as well as loss of loved ones to death. How do we cope? Where does our strength come from these days?  The fact is, we will overcome the pandemic and we will be comforted in our time of loss by the One who neither slumbers nor sleeps and the one who created the heavens and the earth.   Life sometimes can be like a sleepless night; time drags with every breath and the night never seems to go away, yet the sun eventually arises and God once again awakens a new day with new possibilities. Faith is all about knowing we will overcome the darkness that may at times overtake our lives, that the light of our Lord Jesus Christ will shine even in the darkness.  Take courage, you will be given strength that you never thought you had to overcome “all things” that life puts along the way.  When your eyes are weary with the cares and bitter crosses of life going in unknown directions, take comfort and courage that you are and will be strengthened and given all you will need even and especially now.  You are loved and cherished far too much to live this life alone; you have been given strength by the One who has redeemed you and has call you by name for you “can do all things through him who strengthens you.”

How have you felt the presence of Jesus in your life today?

When did you feel strengthened and wondered how you ever made it through a hard time?

How are you taking time to be holy today?

Prayer: Gracious God, I need you today more than ever; offer me the strength and the wisdom to live today in your grace and power. Open my eyes to see you with every step I take and celebrate your eternal presence in my life. Amen