Monday, May 11, 2020
Scripture for the Day
“The Lord went in front of them in a pillar of cloud by day, to lead them along the way, and in a pillar of fire by night…”
Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Our scripture today reminds us of God’s faithful and sustaining presence in times when we find ourselves in the wilderness. Those who study and appreciate history, know there is great value in remembering our past. We gain perspective when we look back. We grow in wisdom when we learn from those who have gone before us. We then have a broader perspective at our disposal in how we might live our lives. For people of faith, who have seen God’s faithfulness in the past, we can be filled with comfort and inspiration for today.
Many, many years ago, God was present and leading the people of Israel through the wilderness. As they wondered where to go and as they asked if God was still with them, they looked to the sky. Either a pillar of cloud or a pillar of fire continually led their way as a reminder of God’s presence. I pause to think about times in my life during this covid19 pandemic wilderness that I have known that God is with me and leading the way. So often it is when I turn to God through the scriptures and in prayer or when I seek to draw near to God with others that I am reminded that God is with me and leading the way. These days it is during intentional devotional times with family and loved ones, or zoom small groups, or livestream worship when I feel God’s presence. Sometimes it is in the middle of the night when I wake up and read scripture and journal my prayers. Are you able to name a time when you have known of God’s presence and leading in these days?
Many years ago, this time only looking back to Sunday, May 10, 1953, which was also Mother’s Day, God was present and leading the people of First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta. Sixty-Seven years ago was also the day that the new Senior Pastor, Rev. Dr. Harry Fifield, began his work at our church. (I would be THRILLED to know if you have a personal or family story about that Sunday!) First, I love the fact that this happened exactly 67 years ago. Second, I give thanks for the ways that God was faithful through uncertain times in the 50s and 60s at the First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta. Third, I recall the times that FPC Atlanta chose to stand up for what is right, to risk safety for justice, to work to include all people in the life of the church, and to remain committed to serve the most vulnerable in our midst. I pause to think about times in the life of our church during covid19 pandemic when we have leaned into this courage and action. Praise the Lord!
Any pastor or ministry leader at FPC Atlanta is ready and able to help you connect more fully into the life of our church. Consider this an invitation to reach out this week. Let us bear witness to the ways we see God present and leading us today. Let us follow in the way of Jesus with courage and grace. Let us unite together as God’s people celebrating our diversity and how God draws near to us in one another.
