Wednesday, April 22, 2020

Dear Church Family,

  My study of the Bible has led me to a one-step method to be at peace. Normally I am opposed to simplistic formulas for anything spiritual. However, during the virus crisis, I will now promote this formula and encourage you to use it for the rest of your life. Remember, what I am about to tell you comes directly from the Bible. Here it is:

“To live at peace, look out your window.”

  Before you think I have lost my mind, let me explain. Actually, the first two verses of Psalm 121 give the formula: “I lift up my eyes to the hills – where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” This formula assumes you have a mountain view. I do not have such a view at my house and must walk up to the ridge line.

  My office window faces south. Some of our beautiful hills stand tall to remind me of the wonderful truth that the Creator of all things is my help for every minutes of every day. He remains Lord of all and is in control of all. [For those who have not been blessed to live in our gorgeous mountains, either buy a picture of the mountains or gaze at the beauty of God’s creation to fill the void.]

  The psalm goes on to state that He is personal and will not let my foot slip at any time. He is all powerful and does not slumber or sleep. He watches over every one of His people that He knows by name. Nothing can bring eternal harm to God’s people – not the sun, not the moon or anything else in all of creation. God watches over us as we go out, as we come back in, and even as we socially isolate. He will do that “both now and forevermore” as the psalm concludes.

  My formula is simple, but profound. Today and forever you can live at peace by looking out your window to the hills from where your help comes!

In great hope,
Pastor Gillikin