We all know that we face trials that are intended to increase our faith. We also know that we usually learn by experience, as we can better understand how others feel when we’ve been there ourselves. This reminds me of our heavenly Father, who wrapped himself in flesh and walked among us; so that even HE could truly understand his own creation and ultimately become a living sacrifice for our sins.

If we study His example, the way He dealt with the negative in life was to stow away from the crowd and refresh his spirit by talking with his father. He then, time after time, returned to the crowd and ministered to them. He seemed to understand their needs and made it his mission to fulfill them. Having been through many struggles and having many needs myself, I am so thankful for my brothers and sisters in Christ, and for all my church family in the Oswego FBC. I believe we are a church that is becoming committed to being the light of the world, offering Christ to all who will accept him.

We do this by turning to our heavenly Father and allowing him to be our source of strength. Then just as Christ did, we too can return to those in need and lift them.  After all, we all need lifted from time to time. Once again, I am so thankful for my beautiful wife, family and close circle of friends who have lifted me up in my times of need. Remember, if you are in someone’s life, God may have placed you there to serve as HIS hands to lift them. When they are struggling, downhearted, broken … that’s when they need your compassion the most.

When I was a young boy, my dog, Gunsmoke tried to bite me. It broke my heart as I was only trying to help him in his time of need. He was sore because he had just been hit by a passing car. When I picked him up it hurt him even more, thus he lashed out at me. I say this just as a little reminder that when we are trying to help someone, it’s typically because they are wounded. You get the picture, if they lash out at you, it’s probably because they’re a little sore……that is why you’re there to help them…..through God’s eyes!

Love you all,

Pastor D