Tuesday, May 16, 2020

A secret sister once gave my Maycle a book of poems by Helen Steiner Rice.

A poem for the day:
“Thank You, God, for little things
that often come our way —
the things we take for granted
but don’t mention when we pray —
the unexpected courtesy.
The thoughtful, kindly deed —
a hand reached out to help us
in the time of sudden need —
oh make us more aware, dear God,
of little daily graces
that come to us with ‘sweet surprise’
from never-dreamed-of places.” –Helen Steiner Rice

A Reminder:
The corona virus pandemic has not faded away.  Wearing masks and social distancing is still vitally important.  The experience of a church in Ronceverte, Greenbrier County, makes that evident.  They had recently returned to in-person worship in their church.  Saturday’s news from the Capitol was that 17 people who had gathered at that church had been diagnosed with COVID-19.  Yesterday’s news reported that that number has increased to 28.

Dear Lord Jesus Christ, our hearts run out to You in gratitude that our congregation has been cautious.  Help us not to become complacent and relax our efforts to stay healthy and keep others safe.  We wear masks not out of fear, but to keep others safe and free from fear.
Good Shepherd, guide us to green pastures of healthful living, lead us beside still waters of concern for others.  Where we are angry, disgruntled, or weary of it all, restore our souls.  Lead us in paths of doing the right thing for others.  When our days grow dark with fear and anxiety, help us to remember You are with us and we need fear not, in Jesus Name.  Amen.

–Pastor John