September 23, 2021

“The grass withers, the flower fades; but the word of our God will stand forever.” – Isaiah 40:8

One day, while at home with my daughters and while my wife was at a workshop, one of the girls was being persistent in asking to do something. I told her we would not be doing what she was asking to do that day. I also reminded her that I knew her mom had already said, “No” before she left home. She quickly told me, “Well, Mom is out of town.”

I have forgotten what the content of my daughter’s request was, but I do remember our brief conversation. I told her that although her mom was not standing right in front of her, her words were still as meaningful. I understand that a parent’s presence makes a big difference. A mom has a way of just looking at her children and bringing them in line. However, a parent cannot always be with their children. The hope of all parents is that their children will remember their words and exercise good judgement accordingly.

After our conversation, my thoughts turned to the Bible. I was reminded that, although Jesus is not standing right in front of me, I have the gift of his words. Even though my eyes do not see God standing by my side, I have God’s authoritative wisdom found in the pages of the scriptures. As a child of God, I was reminded that God wants me to remember His words, to study His words, and make my decisions accordingly.

We have a wonderful gift, found in the pages of our Bibles. These words remind us of God’s love. Until we are home with God in heaven, we can be at home with God in the great story of our faith. In the scriptures, we find God’s presence and promise for our world and for each of us, His children.

– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship