April 30, 2021
Pastor’s letter
Weekly Wonderings…Joey Olson’s Devotional
A few years ago, Ole and I had a chance to worship at Hamilton United Methodist Church in Los Angeles. This African American congregation was celebrating its 95th birthday. We were delighted to experience thirty minutes of singing to open the service. One song we sang touched me deeply. It can be found in the African American Heritage Hymnal.
Somebody prayed for me,
Had me on their mind.
Took the time and prayed for me.
I’m so glad they prayed, I’m so glad they prayed.
I’m so glad they prayed for me.
During this COVID time of uncertainty, many people are finding their coping resources stretched to the limit. Keep in mind that the brain does not relish uncertainty. God has given us a powerful, precious resource in prayer. As we pray for one another, for those who have been stricken with this dreadful disease, those who are lonely and afraid, we trust God’s healing power through our risen Lord.
I always experience a deep sense of comfort when someone reminds me that they have prayed for me and my family! Think of the power that is rallied when we expand our prayers to those in our inner circle. How often do we pray for our enemies? For those we really don’t like? Don’t get along with? For those who are literally struggling mentally, physically, emotionally to survive?
May our prayers become actions of love, kindness, reconciliation. May we find tangible ways to move beyond our Covid discomfort to be and become the body of Christ for those who need him the most.
Sunday I will be preaching from Psalm 23. Find time to read it prayerfully. Give thanks for this shepherd who leads us in the paths of righteousness to live in the house of the Lord forever.
Some Concerns that we have:
- Pastor Brad and Dorothy for healing following Pastor Brad’s heart attack.
- The family of Jamestown S’Klallam Tribal Elder Kurt Grinnell – to his mother, Tribal Elder Elaine Grinnell, and to the entire tribe for Kurt’s tragic death. Extended prayers of comfort, love, and healing are requested. He was a personal friend of Jim Stoffer’s and a friend of our Church and Community.
- For those who continue to go through physical struggles, those who are dealing with cancer, or other health situations.
- Prayers for those who are emotionally feeling lost and alone.
- For all those who are ill from the COVID-19 virus; for those families who have lost loved ones to the virus; for all the first responders/essential workers; and for those who are nervous about getting shots.
- For peace in our country.
- For smooth delivery of the vaccine. And please pray for all of the volunteers.
- For Katherine Parker, missionary to Nepal.