July & August 2007 Message from the Pastor

Refreshed

After a good night’s sleep or a breezy walk on the beach, the world looks different. After a meditative period of prayer or an uninterrupted hour with a good book, our outlook is brighter. What is it that refreshes? What restores your soul?

What was David talking about when he pictured life beside the still water next to the green pasture? Obviously he envisioned a safe place, free from the threat of enemies. But even more basic than this, my theological wordbook says that the original meaning of the Hebrew here implies that God is giving life again. We often find ourselves out of breath and bruised from life’s battles. And powerless, we may only find new life if it comes as a gift, a miraculous rescue.

David’s psalm reminds us to fear no evil. That’s no small task and only possible for truly refreshed souls. The strength needed to do courageous battle with giant demons must come from a soul of great dimensions. David knew that divine soul; great and powerful and loving. He could write and sing his words knowing that this God was with him, comforting him and building him up.

I pray that you are finding still waters this summer. Don’t book yourselves so full that you fail to pause on the shoreline. Jesus, like David, knew the value of a time apart seeking the shores where life begins again. I know you Silicon Valley types are likely to work more and more and not realize that it’s taking a toll on your health, your families and your very souls. So take heed, slow down, sit there where God draws near.

Come September I want to hear your stories and see your pictures. The church should be the place where we tell the tales of God’s lifesaving work. Rescued from danger and grabbed back from the brink of death, we need to celebrate David’s God. Wide-eyed and passionate, we can live again with Christ’s Spirit in our souls.

Amen.