Words of assurance

Good morning brothers and sisters,
        Psalm 139 is one of my go-to readings at times like this (opening verses from Contemporary English Version):
You have looked deep
into my heart, Lord,
    and you know all about me.
You know when I am resting
    or when I am working,
    and from heaven
    you discover my thoughts.
You notice everything I do
    and everywhere I go.
        When my son was 7 years old, I took Desmond and his older sister on a walk through some woods. I thought I knew the paths well. I didn’t. When my son began to fade, I was still trying to act like I knew where I was going. My acting job didn’t work. Desmond collapsed to the ground with a wail and tears. His mind was overtaken by worst case scenario. “We’re going to die.” he sobbed.
        I said, “No my little man, we are not going to die, I’m just confused and a little lost – we’ll be home in time for supper.”
        We are slowly emerging – maybe - from the worst of the corona virus pandemic. Yet, confusion reigns. We still feel a bit lost. Many important decisions face us. Difficult emotions grab hold of us. Fear still plagues some of us. Impatience among others is growing.
        People, these are very challenged times. Psalm 139 assures us, we can find hope, faith, and courage trusting that God knows all about us - fearful, impatient, confused… God casts his loving gaze on each of us…on all of us.
Grace and peace to all,
Pastor Michael