Each of us draws inspiration and encouragement from different sources - a good book, a thought provoking devotion, an interesting poem. I am very fortunate to have colleagues in ministry who regularly inspire and encourage me every week.
This week, I'd like to share one of those encouraging words from Rev. Dave Kivett, one of the pastors at Cedar Heights Presbyterian Church. I plan to share more thoughts from other colleagues in the future. Thanks, Dave, for sharing.
Peace, Pastor Amy
A NOTE FROM PASTOR DAVE
I’ve noticed that in times of sorrow and struggle, familiar words or phrases come to mind and give us strength. They may be words of scripture like the 23rd Psalm. They may be prayers we learned like the Serenity Prayer. They may be and often are words from a favorite hymn or song. The first such phrase to set up space in my heart and head as we face the very real concerns caused by the spread of the coronavirus was a line from the hymn “God of Grace and God of Glory.”
God of grace and God of glory, on thy people pour thy power;
crown the ancient church's story; bring its bud to glorious flower.
Grant us wisdom, grant us courage,
for the facing of thls hour, for the facing of thls hour.
It’s that last line that keeps stirring my soul – “Grant us wisdom, grant us courage.” That same turn of phrase, that petition asking for wisdom and courage, will be used in each of the five verses of the hymn. Grant us wisdom, grant us courage ..,
for the living of these days, for the living of these days.
lest we miss thy kingdom's goal, lest we miss thy kingdom's goal.
that we fail not them nor thee, that we fail not them nor thee!
serving thee whom we adore, serving thee whom we adore.
That petition for wisdom and courage is a prayer I pray for all our leaders – local, national and global. It is prayer I pray for all of us, for you and for me.
Grace, gratitude and peace,
Dave
