Good to be back.

I spent Wednesday and Thursday of this past week traveling back from Montana. After a gorgeous drive on Wednesday from Bozeman to Rapid City I spent some time with former members of the congregation Everett and Sandy Nordine. Everett graciously gave me the abbreviated yet wonderful tour of the Rapid City area and then we all gathered for supper. It was a joy to reconnect with this great couple.

I left Thursday morning early and traveled to Albert City arriving in the afternoon in time to prepare for board meetings that evening.

It was late when I finally connected with my family and the last two evenings I've been up later than I would normally choose but it has been good to catch up on what is happening with my family.

I'm looking forward to sharing from the pulpit tomorrow.

I read this morning some great verses from Psalm 125:1-2. "Those who trust in the Lord are as mount Zion which cannot be moved. As the mountains surround Jerusalem so the Lord encamps around those who fear Him." In these uncertain political and economic times it is comforting to know that the Lord is in control. It is comforting to know that God is watching out for us. In the middle of the chaos those who trust in the Lord are able to remain steady, unmoved, calm and confident because the Lord surrounds us with His protective and powerful presence working out exactly what He knows is best.That doesn't mean we are exempt from trial or difficulty, but that in the middle of our struggles we can stay steady knowing that God is watching over us. In Iowa we like to say that the only thing about the weather that is certain is that it will change. Every person trusting in the Lord can have confidence that His watchful protection will not waiver--His watchful care is as certain As the mountains that surround Jerusalem.
Those who are trusting in the stock market, in a particular political candidate, in their houses to appreciate in value, in the security of their job, and/or in the defenses of America to keep them safe have all been shaken, rattled, unnerved by falling stock prices, the fickleness of politicians, the bursting of the housing bubble, unexpected unemployment, and/or the vulnerability of being harmed as an American here and abroad. All of the things we are so eager to trust in prove to be fleeting, fickle, and faulty, but those who trust in the Lord cannot be moved. The secret to tranquility in the face of trouble, to peace in the midst of problems, to confidence in the midst of chaos is for us to truly trust the Lord--to actively believe that He is in control and that He will work what is best. Lord, help us overcome our doubts and fears so we can trust you fully.