Lately, as we begin any gathering here at Good Shepherd I have been asking this question, “How has Jesus been trying to get your attention lately?” For me personally, I believe that Jesus has been telling me to be more present in my life. To pay attention and see how God continues to work in my life every day!
Last week, I had to make a trip to a hospital that I had never been to before. I was VERY LOW on gas, SO on the way I was looking for a gas station. Unfortunately, I made a wrong turn on the way and by the time that I got to the hospital, the indicator on my dash board showed that I had “0” range left in my tank!
I made my visit with the family at the hospital and anxiously left to find a gas station. I had to drive about five more miles before I actually found a gas station. I was very HAPPY to pay the HIGH price for the gas! I realized that God was watching over me and would provide for me even if my car had run out of gas and I would have had to walk to the gas station. On the way home, I was much more relaxed knowing that God would continue to watch over all my needs. I was a lot more at peace…
After work on the way home, I stopped by the store to get some groceries. I was much more calm. I wasn’t worried about finding the “perfect” parking spot. I had to circle around until a spot opened and I was not stressed out. A kind lady walking to her car indicated that she was pulling out, so I gave her a wave and told her “Thank you” as I pulled into the spot. It was a very enjoyable moment. I was in no rush and I knew that God was in charge.
How have you seen God at work in your life? Maybe He’s just telling you to relax and to enjoy the gifts of the life that He is giving to you. In Philippians 4:6-7, St. Paul writes, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Is it really possible to find peace and joy in this fast paced, hectic world? God’s word says that it is! Do you need to find renewed joy in your life? I encourage you to open up God’s word and to enjoy a little peace with God and experience true joy!
Please join your Good Shepherd family on Wednesday, September 13, as we begin a new Pathfinders session. One of our classes is entitled: "Joy in Christ!" Join us as we delve into Paul’s letter to the Philippians, the “letter of joy!” We will unpack God’s messages of contentment, confidence, humility, and hope—all found in Jesus and infused with joy—in the mountaintop moments and in the mundane.
God’s Peace, Pastor Maske