March 1, 2026

Thinking this morning about “making a difference” in this world … being a “light” … so, I share a prayer …

I read the words in our first lesson for this morning—Psalm121: “The Lord will protect you from all danger; he will keep you safe. He will protect you as you come and go now and forever. My help will come from the Lord.” The Jewish people were in captivity … away from their sacred temple. They were scared … and they found hope in their deep faith in God’s presence. I’m scared, too. There is so much conflict in our world. Our conflict with Iran is boiling over. And each one of us has “stuff” going on in our lives that can take a toll on our soul. I look at the words on our sign this week: “Oasis of Hope.” That’s what and who we are. A place, a community, a humble temple … and at the very foundation of who we are is HOPE. Hope grounded in the spirit of a “humble carpenter” … who walks every step with us. Yes … the pain and uncertainty are always with us. But we are not alone. We have each other … we have our shared faith … and a “higher power” we know as the “good Lord” —- it all gives us the inner strength to face what today may bring. Our opening song this morning is “This little light of mine … I’m gonna let it shine.” We need that “light” more than ever. Peace … yes, peace … to all — Don