August's Stewardship Message
Tapping into God's Strength
Peter really meant it when he promised loyalty to his Lord: "Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you" (Mark 14:31). We mean it, too, when we make promises to God: "I'll give more when I get that promotion." "I'll serve on that committee when the kids get older." "I'll go to visit that homebound parishioner next week." And like Peter we suffer anguishing pangs of conscience when we fail. But we have no "high priest who unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are-yet was without sin" (Hebrews 4:15). Jesus, our High Priest, has made that ultimate sacrifice to take away our sin and stands ready to strengthen us for his service.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I thank you for loving me in spite of the poor choices that I make continually. I so often do what I shouldn't do and don't do what I should be doing. I thank you for your sacrifice that forgives me for my sinful ways. Empower me, Lord, to do your will. Open my eyes and heart to opportunities to serve and help others. Amen.