Where to Go for Help
In faith, we often have questions, decisions to make or things to figure out. There are many sources of help to which we can turn for guidance and strength. With some of these we’re familiar, but some of these we forget so a reminder can be useful!
- We have the Bible. All 66 books are the revealed Word of God and, as such, carry a unique authority for our lives. We turn to Scripture to learn about the God we worship, revealed in Jesus Christ, the good news of the Gospel and to discover what it means to honor God with our lives.
- After Jesus ascended, God sent his Holy Spirit to guide us, empower us and give us gifts we need to follow Jesus and serve one another in love. It’s only by the power of the Spirit that we can live the Christian life.
- We have the Sacraments of Baptism and Eucharist. Jesus Himself gave us these two sacraments! Baptism was given as a sign and commitment of becoming part of God’s family and to receive the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. The Eucharist physically reminds and encourages us with bread and wine that Jesus gave up His body and blood for our sakes.
- As Episcopalians, we have the Liturgy of the Eucharist and the whole Prayer Book: the beautifully written service of Communion; the daily office services, as well as those for marriage, baptism and funerals; and general prayers for all kinds of situations. Liturgy can help us to find the words to pray we struggle to find on our own.
- We have Christian theology. From the early church, there has been reflection upon Scripture in relationship to experience of God in Christ. Theology helps us to apply what we believe to new and sometimes challenging circumstances.
- We have our pastors. The Episcopal Church has a threefold ordained ministry of Deacon, Priest and Bishop. Even in socially distanced times, we’re here to offer guidance and help on working out how to listen to God, and grow in faith and prayer. We’re here if you need us.
We are blessed to have been given so much to guide us on our daily journey through life! Which of these resources do you need to draw on today?
May the blessing of God Almighty, Father, Son and Holy Spirit be with you and remain with you always. Amen.
