Pastor's Desk

 

INSIGHT FROM GOD’S WORD   

INDEPENDENCE DAY

 

Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits. Psalm 103:2

                                                                                   

            When you think of what is important about the month of July, we Americans usually think about the celebration of our nation’s independence on July 4^th. I think it is rather fitting that this year the 4^th of July falls on a Sunday. It’s right that we should stop and show our appreciation for what God has done in our land and in our lives.

            That’s the way it was over 100 years ago when the preacher, Dwight Moody was reading the 103^rd Psalm. He came to the verse “Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.” That’s when Moody stopped short, and with a twinkle in his eye and a smile on his face, said, “You can’t remember all of God’s benefits, of course. But that doesn’t mean you should forget ‘em either. Remember some of them.”

            What he said is true. You and I can’t remember all of the benefits God has bestowed on this country and on us, his children. On the other hand, we can’t forget them all either. Consider saying thanks to the Lord for that grill you cook on and the abundance of food you cook on it. Thank the Lord for the freedom we enjoy and the responsibility to use it properly. And above all thank the Lord for being our Savior! The Psalmist goes on to say, “who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion”

            Moody was right, “We can’t remember all of God’s benefits. But that doesn’t mean we should forget ‘em either.” Take a little time out from the fireworks and give the Lord some thanks! 

(Adapted from By The Way Encore by Paul Devantier, VillageLutheranChurch, Ladue, MO)

 

            Gracious Lord, we thank for the benefits you have bestowed on this our nation. Continue to watch over her as she seeks to strives to be a banner bearer for freedom, liberty and justice. Thank you for calling me to be your child through faith in my Savior, Jesus Christ. May I be a banner bearer for you - one who readily shares the joy of salvation in Jesus Christ that is ours which is our greatest benefit from you. Amen.

 

                                                                                                                    Your Pastor,

                                                                                                                    Rev. Richard A. Salcido