September 30, 2021

Things to Come

“Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth.”

Psalm 46:10

As we move into October, the end of this year becomes an ever present reality. “Where did the time go?” It is a question we ask as we look at our children, grandchildren, and the young people we have been privileged to watch grow up in our congregation.

It is easy to become overwhelmed with what is left to do, what needs to be done, and what should take priority. It is at these times when the words of the psalmist holds great wisdom, “be still.” In all of our doing, it is possible to move from one thing to another without taking a “time out.” The danger in that, at least for me at times, is to just run away from it all. Not in a “be still, and know” kind of way but in an “aargh!” kind of way.

These words from God, as given by the psalmist, serve as not just a command but more of an invitation. It is at this point the verse above serves as a reminder and a call. The last word belongs to God as well as any of our plans: “For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope” (Jeremiah 29:11). “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established” (Proverbs 16:8). Trusting in the wisdom that comes from God, all our planning and work should be entrusted in His care. With that in mind, to know the will and way of God, means that at consistent intervals we need to “be still and know that I am God.” And the words of the song becomes our reminder and prayer: “Be still and know that I am God/I am the Lord that healeth thee/My boundless mercy shall endure/I love you with a steadfast love/In Thee, O Lord, I put my trust.”

Together in Faith,
Pastor Carolyn