Blessings to all of you as we prepare for the special season of hope during Holy Week.  It's always amazing to me as I am reminded what Jesus suffered for us. When we first came to 1st Church many years ago and experienced one of the Men of Faith Good Friday services , I was overwhelmed to witness the congregation slowly walk up front and nailing pieces of paper with their "sins" to the cross.  The image of what Jesus sacrificed on that dark day so long ago, to give us the ultimate goodness, forgiveness of our sins, and especially the promise of eternal life, really impacted my faith. I have undergone many serious health situations and surgeries and I always find myself reflecting on that gift of hope I was given,, and somehow my fears and pain don't seem quite as intense.  Our hope for Easter Sunday is in celebrating this Jesus -- the One who conquered death and rose again, who sees us and is with us not only in joy but especially in our grief and fears. We remember the message: He is risen. He is life. He is with us always. Because He lives, we always have hope! When challenges are coming at us from all sides , I try to look at it as an opportunity. Believe me. I used to wish I could go back in time, but I know that I can call out to our Father for help and together we can handle anything.  I'll admit, my way to handle problems is never sufficient but I only need to get on my knees and and a sense of peace surrounds me. This all leads me to encourage each of you to take advantage of the opportunity to sign up for one or more hours of prayer during our 24-7 Prayer Vigil.  I've called it a challenge, but truly it's a gift. Invite a friend to join you for one time slot. You'll be surprised how quickly the hour passes.  

   

Don't forget daily Lord's Prayer at noon - and invite your friends and family to join us in prayer for our world. I'll be praying for you!