Tomorrow evening, during our Holden Evening Prayer service, we will hear the comforting words from John 1: “A light shines in the darkness, and the darkness shall not overcome it.” COVID 19 has cast a shadow over our community, our nation and our world. But as promised, in that shadow there is still light.
Even in the times of great darkness, when it is difficult to see the good around us, I am reminded that God is always at work in the world. In times when I feel powerless, I know that God has a greater power. When I feel hopeless, I know that God’s promise has given us all the hope we need. And on the days when I feel anxious and afraid, I am reminded that in God we can walk without fear.
Here are three times this week that I saw the light of God working in the shadows.
Heidi Tkachenko, long time member of Grace and daughter of Bev and Dan Tkachenko, was all set for a destination wedding in Mexico last weekend. They made the difficult decision to postpone the trip and the celebration. However, they celebrated their love in the best way they could and got married here in Minnesota on Saturday. The wedding was small and different than planned, but their love and marriage is just as sweet. Congratulations to the happy couple and thank you for reminding us that we still have so much to celebrate.
Many people have found themselves with unplanned family time this week. College students and young adults are home and canceled activities for everyone means a lot more family dinners and a lot less carpool time. Patience can run thin and frustration can run high right now, but there are great moments of family connection happening all around our country. The Plumley-Cleland family (Sharon, Jennifer and their 5th grade twins) took time on Sunday to paint this beautiful reminder that God’s light is shining on us each day. Jennifer said it took several hours and lots of laughs to complete.
When Kris Miller’s 8-year-old grandson Mason was sad over his ruined birthday plans his mom jumped into action an emailed the neighborhood for some love and support. They responded in a big way! All day Mason was greeted by smiling neighbors dropping off homemade cards, small gifts and birthday wishes at the end of their driveway. Mason ended the day feeling so very special and loved.
These stories are happening all around us. God is still at work in our lives even when we feel the pressure of the world around us. Please share with us on Facebook how you are seeing God at work in our world.
