Daybreak | Dec. 18th

"On the willows there we hung up our lyres."

Psalm 137:2

Tucked away in our basement in storage are a violin and saxophone, instruments from our children's younger years. I am sure many have instruments hidden away in some forgotten spot. There is no longer a desire to play; other hobbies have replaced it.

The Psalmist describes a more dismal circumstance. How can one sing when in a land of captivity? There is no reason to rejoice, and one does not have the faith to comfort oneself or others through song.

Beloved, such seasons befall us. Times in which it is hard to rejoice or worship. Do not allow the enemy to condemn or keep you in despair. Lift your weary heart and hands to God. Seek His refreshing and the hope that comes from God's promises. Weeping may endure for a night, but joy will dawn on the darkness. God is with you and will put a new song in your heart.

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Wight

The Planting of God

"For as the earth brings forth its sprouts, and as a garden causes what is sown in it to sprout up, so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to sprout up before all the nations."

Isaiah 61:11

The garden of life may appear dormant and lifeless. There is no color to captivate the eye or evidence of a harvest to come, but beneath the surface lies the seed. Soon, what is unseen will sprout forth, and the barren place will be filled with life.

Do not grow weary beloved. Be not dismayed or persuaded to give up. The harvest of life will soon come. Where there is sorrow, the Lord will bring joy. Fear will be overcome with peace and strength. Hope will brighten the heart and strengthen the hands. God is working all things for your good and you shall see what He has prepared for you in lovingkindness.

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Wight

The Sleep of Sorrow | Dec. 13

"He came to the disciples and found them sleeping for sorrow, and he said to them, ' Why are you sleeping? Rise and pray that you may not enter into temptation."

Luke 22:45-46

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There is a sorrow so profound that it wearies the soul and body. One can only imagine the strain on the disciples that night. To hear Jesus speak of His suffering, to know that one would betray Him, and soon, Jesus would not be with them. To observe and hear the agony of Jesus praying in the garden was more than they could bear.

It is understandable that they were in this condition. Yet their loving Savior and Friend encouraged them to remain faithful in prayer. This would be the remedy for their heavy hearts, and strength would come through the grace of God. Jesus was not scolding them but encouraging them.

Beloved, perhaps some great sorrow has wearied your heart. The trials of life have become more than you can bear. You have lost your hope and slipped away into the sleep of sorrow.

May you hear the loving encouragement from your Savior. Though the flame of faith is faint, He will not snuff it out. Bring yourself in prayer before the throne of grace. Call to the Lord He will answer you. Christ is in the dark garden of sorrow with you but He has overcome and will lead you out in victory.

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Wight