Jonathan Moore
Psalms 92:12-15
The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green, proclaiming, “The Lord is upright; he is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in him.”
There's a lot to be said for just hanging in there! In a youth-obsessed culture, maybe not, but in an environment where maturity and experience is a help and not a hindrance, we should not be so hasty in sidelining the senior saints. Wisdom and stability comes from a lifetime of worship, study, and service. Physical energy may wane, but enthusiasm and encouragement need not. 'Retirement' sometimes means we replace the 'have to' with we 'get to', and that benefits the community enormously. We can "Finish Well"!
Prayer from First Presbyterian Church Grenada Heavenly Father, we know that wind, water, rain , sleet and snow àre yours. This Sabbath we come before You with humble hearts, seeking Your protection and grace.
We pray you will place Your mighty hand over this storm and calm its force. Shield us from the fury of the wind, rain, snow and ice. Care for those in the grip of the storm and keep them from harm. We pray for the safety of every person, home, and community at risk. We lift up all rescue workers, police, firefighters, and utility crews, asking for clear minds, steady hands, and safe passage as they heroically assist others in dangerous situations. Calm the anxious thoughts and steady the restless hearts of those filled with fear. Remind them of Your constant presence, that even when life seems dark and stormy, You are with us, guiding us to safety. In the wake of the storm, we pray for swift recovery and restoration. Provide essentials like water, food, and adequate shelter, and inspire communities to come together in support and care for one another.
We trust in Your unfailing love and mercy, knowing You are our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. We pray in Jesus Name. Amen
🌿 Parable: The Two Lanterns
In a quiet village, two neighbors lived side by side. One carried a lantern that burned bright but warm, lighting the path with a soft golden glow. The other carried a lantern that flickered with a lively, dancing flame — small, but full of spark.
Each evening they walked home alone, their separate lights guiding them through the dusk. But one night, a strong wind swept through the valley. The first neighbor’s lantern dimmed. The second neighbor’s lantern sputtered.
They looked at each other, unsure of what to do. Then, almost at the same moment, they stepped closer.
When they brought their lanterns together, something unexpected happened — the flames leaned toward one another, touched, and suddenly both lanterns blazed brighter than before. The wind still blew, but now the light was strong enough to withstand it.
From that night on, they walked home together. Not because they needed to… but because joy is fuller when shared, and light is stronger when joined.
And the village noticed. People said the path seemed brighter these days — not because the lanterns had changed, but because the hearts carrying them had come together.