Our Administrative Assistant, Sandy Crane is in the office each morning 739-1943 and I can be reached anytime at 315-447-3319.

Continue to reach out to each other, and to hold one another in prayer.

Grace and Peace,
Pastor Rhonda

*****

Thursday, April 2nd Daily Devotional

From The Upper Room 

Thought for the day: When the way closes ahead of me, God will uphold me. 

Forward in Hope 

Read – Isaiah 43:1-3 

Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.  – Isaiah 41:10 (NIV) 

   One morning on my walk to work, I saw a cute little bird walking on the pavement. I could not help slowing down to gaze at it. Then the bird started to walk toward the road which was filled with buses and trucks. I was alarmed and blocked its way ahead. It flew a short distance and then continued walking toward the road. I quickly blocked it again. It tweeted and flew to a branch nearby, looking at me reproachfully.

I was relieved that it had not been run over by a car, but that look reminded me that I can sometimes behave like the bird. At times I have attempted to move ahead, following my own dreams and desires, but obstacles block my path. In such times, like the tweets of that bird, I complain to God asking why my way has been blocked. But when I look on those times, I realize that each obstacle had a purpose. Those closures led me to where I am today. God has always been protecting me. Even when we experience difficulties or obstacles, we do not have to worry. We can walk on with hope in our hearts, knowing that God is with us. 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for your great love. Forgive us when we try to move ahead without you. Help us to follow Jesus’ example as we pray, “Yet not as I will, but as you will,” (Matt.26:39, NIV).   Amen.

Hisako Adachi (Kanagawa, Japan)

Prayer Focus: To trust God’s Guidance

*****