I cannot think of anyone better than the Apostle Peter to bring us comfort at this melancholic time in our lives. He comforts the early Christian church that was punished for believing in Christ! He also has words to comfort us in these days in which much has been written about the afflictions of our society. Peter had a long and rather curious walk with the Lord. He is entitled to tell us to believe in God’s promises.
On the first Sunday of a new Church Year, it is entirely appropriate to go over the basic rules that will govern the year ahead. Isaiah draws an analogy from a pottery and applies it to the church. He compares us to clay, and God, to the potter. In God’s pottery, He sets the rules by which we live.
Our pilgrim fathers brought the Christian faith with them. The Lord, obviously, blessed them and their descendants. Despite our weakness, the Lord has enriched us through America. Let us never neglect our prayers of thanksgiving, for truly, America is a divine gift to us!
As we approach a new church year and the turning of the calendar,we turn to Psalm 90 and a favorite hymn, “Our God, Our Help, in Ages Past,” for insights into God’s perspective on time, and our use of the time He gives us for His glory and service.
It is always best to be ready, but ‘Last Day’ preparations are most important. Since only the Father knows the day and the hour we need to be ready now. Jesus makes it possible for us to enter eternal life through his sacrificial death. Faith in him will allow us to enter.