The following message from Dr. Jim Standiford, senior pastor, is from the most recent Outlook newsletter.

Different Perspective

One cannot help but be struck by the pictures of devastation coming out of Haiti. Many in our country are struggling with economic situations,
health concerns, and other issues; but our situation pales in comparison to what the people of Haiti have faced for generations and face now in exponentially greater magnitude.

Times like this give us perspective. What we faced yesterday and seemed huge to us, is suddenly greatly diminished today when we see what others face. The resources of media no longer allow us to view only down the lane in front of our home. We are forced to see the world and all therein. While the media pushes us, our faith in a God who loves the whole world invites us to embrace the larger picture. As God loved and loves, so we cannot ignore the conditions of life of those around us. It is a part of our faithful response to God’s grace that we graciously pray, give, and work for a better life for all.

This Sunday as a part of our sermon series on “A GPS for New Life,” both Molly and I will be speaking about “Set your Destination.” Our destination is the Kingdom of God, God’s will being joyfully lived and experienced by all humanity, all creation. Come and join us in either Water’s Edge or sanctuary worship and let us help each other with this setting on the GPS of our spiritual lives.

See you Sunday,
Jim Standiford