Mountain Hike
Knees bending
High stepping
Boots grabbing
Rocks slipping.
Will this steep
climbing reap
seeing sun
head to sleep?
Five hours pass
energy sapped
walk slow with class
until flop for nap.
Cool air descends
oil lamp’s light extends
with gift of daughter, and
new friends, all transcends.
Stepping into cloud
white all around
we quiet down
God’s presence surrounds.
Matthew 11:25-30 (CEB). The Father and the Son
At that time Jesus said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you’ve hidden these things from the wise and intelligent and have shown them to babies. Indeed, Father, this brings you happiness.
“My Father has handed all things over to me. No one knows the Son except the Father. And nobody knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wants to reveal him.
28 “Come to me, all you who are struggling hard and carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest. 29 Put on my yoke, and learn from me. I’m gentle and humble. And you will find rest for yourselves. 30 My yoke is easy to bear, and my burden is light.”
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Two years ago, Kristin Camp came on as paid staff for Saint Paul after decades of working as a volunteer out of God’s love in her heart. Using her marketing and computer knowledge the newsletter took on a new look. Even more, she and Marta Brabec transformed the church interior. Just looking at what they accomplished physically wore me out! They tossed never ending layers of “stuff,” rearranged, helped us move and renovate offices and the parsonage, updated, and beautified. Perhaps you’ve noticed that there are hospitable spaces with chairs, tables, and artwork throughout the church where you can sit down and visit or read. No mere words can express the appreciation for the time we’ve spent working together. Knowing our friendship, and her church lady status will continue, makes me smile.
When our staff changes, we tend to step timidly into the fog of unknowns. We breathe deeply and take the first step, and there may a feeling of trepidation. But we do not fear when we let down our heavy load and share it with Christ and with others. Any help you can provide in the interim is much appreciated. Please let us know what your gifts are so that we can match you with what is needed. When we balance prayer and work, love becomes real.
Even when the sunrise or sunset occurs beyond the clouds, trust in God’s loving care. Know you are not alone.
Marta
Rev. Marta Wheeler
To view or download a PDF version of this devotional, click here: Devotional MW 2023-07-05