God’s Word in the Desert

Do you miss connecting with the people of St. Philip’s Church in person? I do. The welcome, joy, mission and purpose when we’re together is contagious and uplifting.

But right now, the ways we have to connect are less than they used to be. How can we stay close to God and each other? The story we tell of what we’re going through will give it meaning, good or bad.

The Bible, in Exodus, tells how God freed the people from cruel slavery. Those miracles broke captivity but began a time in the desert which was hot, dry, and wearisome, much like our days of pandemic lockdown.

Instead of impulsively fetching luxuries on the Master’s whim, life in the desert provided basic food and water while following leaders trying to navigate massive unknowns.

“Remember our history, … our ancestors were led. They went through the waters, … They all ate and drank identical … meals provided daily by God. They drank from the Rock, God’s fountain for them that stayed with them wherever they were. And the Rock was Christ.” 1 Corinthians 10: 1-4 (The Message)

The Holy Land God led them into, was beyond their imagining. The grueling journey taught God’s people to rely on God. Daily work, prayer, study, and acts of kindness gave a life structured as never before.

Somewhere in our future, God’s promise of blessing for faithful following will show itself in an abundant life never before known. Until it reveals itself, let’s work, pray, study, and act with all the love we can.

Keep the faith!

Pastor Mike Krewson