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Water is found in many places in scripture, including in tears. John 11:32-36 reminds us that Jesus experienced weeping, "When Mary came where Jesus was and saw him, she knelt at his feet and said to him, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died." When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her also weeping, he was greatly disturbed in spirit and deeply moved. He said, "Where have you laid him?" They said to him, "Lord, come and see." Jesus began to weep. So the Jews said, "See how he loved him!"
In the past few days, weeks and months we have experienced hopeful and exciting news as well as difficult and sad news, sometimes all in the same day. I have heard people reference our current times as a corona-coaster.
This week we are enjoying Backyard VBS in our cul-de- sac along with almost 40 families from our church and community doing the same in their driveways, backyards, porches and kitchen tables. The joy of VBS and sharing these messages with children is unlike any other gift in ministry, but this year there is grief and change as we are not able to gather with the whole group in one place and experience that energy of over 100 children dancing and singing together.
When I hear both types of news I am often overcome with emotion and questions. Are there places in your life of hurt or sadness? Are their places of joy and gratitude? What are the tearful places? Change? Transition?
I would invite you to take a moment to identify some of the parts of your life where there are tears. Listen to them and then place them before God.
"In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express." Romans 8:26
If you'd like to share Backyard VBS with your family or neighbors, there's plenty of time. We have kits and resources available for pick up inside the first set of glass doors at the main entrance to the church. Pick up 1 large Ziploc bag for each family, enjoy the experience and then share pictures with me of your highlights. All other info. can be accessed here. (https://jcpcusa.org/vacation_bible_school)
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