Maintaining Perspective
I have just returned from a family holiday in New Zealand. We had the privilege of seeing some sights that are truly stunning. Beautiful lakes surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The relentless power of glaciers. The intricate design of ferns that fill a forest. The immensity of the starry sky on a dark night. Waterfalls cascading into the huge space that is Milford Sound. These are some of the images of Nature that I now carry as memories. The Bible tells us these bear testimony to the glory of God. The grandeur of creation points to the greatness of the Creator who designed and made them. How awesome God is.
On returning to my work as a Pastor, I am reminded of the challenges people face - worries about work and money; relationship difficulties; health concerns and so on. I am tempted to try to escape into my holiday memories. But such escapism achieves nothing for others. It is much better to remember that the God who created the wonders, cares for us in our worries. That is one of the things Jesus taught us about God. When we remember how great God is, it puts our concerns in perspective. It also gives us hope. Since God is greater than anything in the world, and God cares for us, we can always find hope in God.
So as you enter this year of challenges and opportunities. Worship your Creator. Invite God into your personal world. And you will find the hope and strength you need for 2011 and beyond.
Rev. David Devine
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