I'm really coming to realize that no matter how amazing the message/sermon/text...a thought can only be 100% realized when its your own. and I think this is what I was missing from high school- ya know? this blog is like an assignment but I'm finally in a place to take it seriously. it wasn't that way so many years ago.
my mom opened up and relayed thoughts about her father who we lost in the spring of '96 (if I'm remembering correctly). and her contemplation of the term "lost" lead me to contemplate that grampa lost us in just the same way! so as we Christians are waiting down here on earth for the chance to reunite in heaven with our loved ones // they are just as eagerly awaiting our arrival!
I’m but a stranger here,
Heaven is my home;
Earth is a desert drear,
Heaven is my home;
Danger and sorrow stand
Round me on every hand;
Heaven is my fatherland,
Heaven is my home.
Pastor had a sermon today on one of my favorite pieces of scripture because it is so vivid. I Peter 5:6-11 "Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. Be sober, be vigilant: because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen." The sermon reminded us to be sober (be serious, mature) and vigilant (watchful as a soldier on post) because of the craftiness of the devil (like a lion stalking you). Pastor reminded us that the devil will work through our 'pet' sins, the sins that are our weakness and that are the hardest for us to give up (worry, gossip, pride, dishonesty, etc.). Of course, along with this sermon comes one of the most comforting hymns to me, ELH 252. "I walk with angels all the way, They shield me and befriend me. All Satan's pow'r is held at bay, When heavenly hosts attend me. They are my sure defense. All fear and sorrow, hence! Unharmed by foes, do what they may, I walk with angels all the way." May the angels walk with you today, Janelle, and each day of your life as you serve the Lord with gladness and rejoicing.
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