By Paths As Yet Untrodden...

Lord God, you have called your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with good courage, not knowing where we go, but only that your hand is leading us and your love supporting us, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (from the Book of Common Prayer)

Isn't that what life is so often like?  "Life is a highway" as the song says.  We are walking along the way.  God, through Scripture and the Spirit, gives us two main things for this journey of life.  We have the Way we are called to walk, a Way of loving God and our neighbor, a Way of Justice for all and hope for the oppressed.  God has give us the Torah and shown us the best way to live this life.

But, that's not all!  God doesn't just give us a map and sends us on our way.  God promises to be there with us every step.  Jesus promised never to leave us or forsake us. God has sent us his Spirit to live inside of us.  We know that God is for us, so who (of consequence) can be against us?

So, as we set out on our unknown ventures and untrodden paths, let us remember each step of the way that the  God who loves us more than we can ever imagine is with us every moment, every breath, every heartbeat.

AMEN!

The Good News (REALLY!)

The true gospel (good news) that Jesus brings is this:  "God loves you, and..."

"God loves you, and will give you peace."
"God loves you, and will never leave you or forsake you."
"God loves you, and will keep you safe."
"God loves you, and accepts you as you are."
"God loves you, and forgives all of your bad choices."

The most important message that Jesus came to give was that each of us (YOU included) is especially beloved by the Creator and Sustainer of the universe.  No matter what is going on in your life, no matter what struggles or joys you are facing, you are infinitely LOVED.  Isn't that good news?

What is the good news you want to hear from Jesus today?