November 23, 2025

This morning I read the words in the first lesson for today … Psalm 46. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea.” This morning my heart is with a young girl named Juniper. Nine years old … full of life and smiles. And now … she is fighting a rare disease called transverse myelitis. The “earth has changed” for her and her family.

The “mountains shake” in her world. And today we will pray for Juniper and her family … the “love bucket” is there to let them know we care. Yes: God is our refuge and strength … a very present help in trouble. And I think of those words that grab my heart everyday: “Be still, and know that I am God.” It’s dark outside. I turn the key and walk into the “light” of our humble temple. l see Juniper’s picture next to the love bucket. It’s why we are here: to be reminded of God’s grace and presence in our lives. Knowing we are connected to a young girl named Juniper … knowing that in the darkness of tough times —- God is our “refuge and strength.” Peace and hope to all —- “see you in church”!!!! Don