Fields United Methodist Church

Side by Side with Jesus.                                                      Pastor Tom Joyce

January 27, 2021

“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff—they comfort me.”  Psalm 23:4

The seasons of life are ever-changing; one day it seems the sun never stops shining and the next day dark, ominous clouds obscure the light.  No matter whether there is the warmth of the sun on your back, or the chill of a cloudy day God is still with you, and will guide you through all the seasons of life. What is your “darkest valley?” Are you caring for a loved one and guiding them through a difficult time? Do you feel isolated and alone as the world deals with the pandemic? Do you long to gather with family and friends without fear of COVID19 or the need for wearing a mask? Are you lonely, dealing with financial or job uncertainty, or just plain tired? In other words, are you walking through a dark valley in your life? “Fear not” is said to be in the Bible 365 times, 365 times!  God is reminding you every day not to fear! Never a day goes by when God, through our Lord and Savior Jesus the Christ, is with you, guiding you, walking with you, loving you no matter where your path of life seems to be leading or the challenges that you may encounter along the way. Life doesn’t always make sense and is not always easy but the God who created you and set you free to live a life of grace, joy, hope, and peace has promised to be with you “even to the end of the age,” no matter the darkness that surrounds you. Time after time when Jesus healed, he reminded the people, “go, your faith has made you well.” It is all about faith in Jesus Christ; the most precious gift you have ever received. You are truly God’s beloved and God has promised to be with you, and is with you, as you journey through the darkest valley or celebrate life on a cloud-free sunny day.

Rev. Tom Joyce