I have a print hanging in my office that serves as a regular reminder of Psalm 46.

La Jument is a photo of a famous French lighthouse taken by Jean Guichard. The photo shows a lighthouse keeper standing at the door of the lighthouse, as giant waves crash around the structure. The lighthouse keeper’s pose is relaxed. He is not worried for his safety. The waves that seem so threateningly large are wrapped around the lighthouse like a blanket, but the place where he stands is untouched. They will not overtake his refuge.

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the…waters roar and foam.”

God himself is our place of safety, our source of strength. Whatever you are facing right now, may any fear diminish because of his ever-present help in your life!

This Sunday I’ll be sharing a compelling parable in Jesus’ words that sheds light on how your life can make an impact that honors him. As always, we’ll express our love for the Lord in worship as well.

We have 54 people who plan to be baptized this Sunday at Beulah Beach!  If you’ve given your life to Jesus and still need to take that step in your journey, it’s not too late to sign up!

You may have seen the rain predicted for this weekend… we’ll be making the final call on Sunday morning (prior to 9 AM), and will announce whether the picnic has been postponed to the following week.

2 other opportunities to take new steps in your growth journey. First, the Men’s Ministry Fall Kickoff will be Monday, Aug. 29th, 6-8 PM in the MH Campus Activity Center. Come enjoy a Mission BBQ buffet, a brief message from me about living out our true identity as men of God, and several testimonies from guys about how God is at work in and through our Men’s Ministry. Anyone can get involved!

Looking ahead, we’re hosting a simulcast of the Live2Lead leadership conference on Friday, October 7. Speakers include Doris Kearns Goodwin, presidential historian, international keynote speaker, and Pulitzer Prize-winning, New York Times #1 best-selling author. Also, Patrick Lencioni, pioneer of the organizational health movement and author of 11 books, translated into more than 30 languages. Church members can register here.

Whatever you’re facing this week: in joy, in sorrow, may the Lord be your refuge and strength in these stormy days.

– Pastor Jonathan Schaeffer