Israel’s arduous 40-year journey of deliverance to the “what’s next” has been instructive.  My main takeaway is that the Lord provided.  Day by day, food, water, protection, strength, and direction were given as needed. More enduringly still, God provided God’s “word,” an even more important nourishment than bread for living in new community.  Exodus 15-20 tells the story.

It took Israel a long while to figure it all out on the journey to “what’s next.”  Similarly, countless hours have been invested by our generous deacons, committees and staff- seeking together to discern how to safely move our faith community forward, yet again, in these highly unusual and uncomfortable times. 

I am aware of the weariness many of us feel.  I hear our longings for deliverance.  I share them. I offer a trustworthy word from fellow minister, Asaph, when his community of faith was especially weary from their world falling apart.

"My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." 
Psalm 73:26  

I also find hope meditating upon Jesus’ first words to his weary, traumatized followers in similarly uncertain circumstances, “Do not be afraid… I am going ahead of you… there you will see me.”  (Matthew 28:5-7)

Let us draw near to God today, that He may draw near to us, and continue leading us to what’s next.  I look forward to worshiping with you Sunday.  Meanwhile, let’s hear Paul’s counsel to the Philippians as that community of faith sought likewise, to press forward into the future (Phil 4:4-9).