She slipped into the back pew when the service had already started. I’m sure she didn’t want anyone to notice; but I couldn’t help but be drawn to her. And as the first hymn started, I slid into the pew next to her and quietly offered her a smile. My back pew ministry had begun.
Scriptural Context: (you can click on the links to read the full passages)
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.
Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Reflection:
Message in Music:
Healing Hand of God, by Jeremy Camp (full lyrics available here)
I have seen the many faces of fear and pain.
I have watched the tears fall plenty from heart ache and strain.
If life’s journey has you weary and afraid, there’s rest in the shadow of his wings.
I have seen the healing hand of God, reaching out and mending broken hearts.
Taste and see the fullness of His peace, and hold on to what’s being held out:
the healing hand of God.
Cast all your cares on Him for He cares for you. He’s near to the broken and confused.
By His stripes our spirit is renewed; so enter in the joy prepared for you.
Better than a Hallelujah, by Amy Grant (full lyrics available here)
God loves a lullaby in a mother’s tears in the dead of night
Better than a Hallelujah sometimes.
God loves the drunkard’s cry, the soldier’s plea not to let him die
Better than a Hallelujah sometimes.
We pour out our miseries. God just hears a melody.
Beautiful, the mess we are. The honest cries of breaking hearts are better than a Hallelujah.
Always love reading your blog! Thank you! Some days you just need it more too and today, as I have learned of a friend loosing a young son, the scripture spoke to me, I needed that. Thank you.
May you feel the presence of God’s healing hand today, Megg!