Still is God’s hand that leadeth me

Notes from the Pastor…

I am amazed that fire can be both frightening and comforting.  When in the back country, and especially when alone in the wilderness, fire can bring a sense of security; a sense of safety.  Paradoxically, when the winds howl and a spark hits dry timber, fire can be like a hungry dragon devouring everything in its path.
For those who were in the path of the White Fire, please know there are many prayers offered on your behalf.  I was surprised to find out that Sharon Watkins, the President and General Minister of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), knew of the Ruidoso fire and lifted us up in prayer.  When I talked to a friend of First Christian Church, Charlotte Lord, she expressed gratitude for all of our prayers, because it seemed that
Jesus himself kept the fire at bay from her home and horses.
Nevertheless, we know there are others who suffered great loss to property and structure.  Tangibly, First Christian Church in the coming days and weeks will join with other faith communities discovering ways we can show compassion to those who lost much.  If you know of an unmet need, please inform the church office; likewise, we will keep you abreast of any community efforts.

The emergency personnel assigned to the White Fire are quite optimistic; however, they expressed to the public:  “contained” and “extinguished” are two different things.  Therefore, let us pray for those fighting the fire —
May the Good Shepherd protect them, even though they work in the valley fraught with danger.  Let us pray for those who suffered loss  — May the Good Shepherd lead them beside the still waters of peace and restore their souls.
This week, let us take to our lips the “Prayer Hymn” that rang through our sanctuary on Sunday:
       He leadeth me: O Blessed thought!
       O words with heavenly comfort fraught!
       Whatever I do, wherever I be,
       Still is God’s hand that leadeth me.
Grace,
Pastor Ryan