In the WildernessO give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever…to him who led his people through the wilderness, for his steadfast love endures forever. (Psalm 136:1,16) Saturday, Third Week of Easter Father almighty, who is not served by men’s hands as though you need anything, but who delights in the worship of a contrite heart, grant us grace as we travel through life’s wilderness that we may shed the pride to which our hearts are prone, to remember that you have made us and not we ourselves, that you are the beginning and the end of our life. Grant us to know the limit of our knowledge that we may seek your wisdom, and to know the limit of our power so that we may glory in your strength which is made perfect in weakness. May we worship you in humility, and arise to the newness of life by fellowship with you. Amen Dear friends, We are traveling through a wilderness. In the wilderness scarcity is abundant. Lack of water. Lack of food. Lack of shade. The many resources found in well-watered places are not easily discovered in the desert. Our seven 1/2 week “stay-at-home” journey through the corona virus wilderness was just extended by the governor’s order. No relief in sight until the end of the month. Reopening will occur in four stages over more time. It is frustrating, to say the least. Some people agree with the governor’s decision, others do not. Wisdom is proved right by all her children. What is God teaching us through this wilderness journey? In ancient and current times, God often leads his people into wilderness situations in order to teach them important lessons, in order for them to be closer to Him. Abraham lived in a tent in the wilderness after God called him to leave his father’s family. Though God promised him a land and an inheritance, these things Abraham did not see in his lifetime, yet he learned how to have faith in God. Moses led the people of Israel into the wilderness to meet the Living God. There they learned God provides for them daily. David fled into the wilderness to escape from King Saul. There he learned God protects those who trust in him. Today God is leading you through a wilderness time. What is God teaching you? My prayer is that we learn humility and trust. This virus has successfully knocked over many things that we have trusted in. For many, all those wonderful resources that caused us to have a sense of security, have become scarce. Now what? There is One yet remaining who has promised to provide all that we need and more. Please note: God has promised to satisfy our needs, not our greeds. May He meet your needs abundantly. With great measure. Even in the wilderness. As our hearts cry out, “O give thanks to God, for He is good, his steadfast love endures forever…he leads his people through the wilderness!” Peace to you,
Pastor Langdon Reinke P.S. Hope you and your family are healthy and safe. We are in this together. We have help available if there are needs. Please let us know. | 
