"In the midst of troubles and Challenges..." - By Bishop G

Dear Friends,

           This past week, the weather offered up a winter storm, disrupting our plans for work, home, church, and recreation.  Thus, we rescheduled the election of the 13th Bishop of Alabama for Saturday, January 31, at the Cathedral Church of the Advent.  The election completes the work of the 194th Convention, and we’ll make history by also then convening our 195th Convention of the Diocese on February 5-7, only five days later, at Camp McDowell.   As far as I can tell, this is the first time we’ve ever held two Diocesan conventions within the same week.  Thank you to all those who’ve worked diligently to do all necessary for these gatherings.

            In the scheme of life, disruptions from weather, busy meetings, or political turmoil, or war and rumors of war, illness, death, and strife are never far away.  The psalmist knew about times when life was overwhelming, unpredictable, and forces beyond our control seemed to reign.

             At those times, prayers were offered freely to God in thanks for the rescue that became visible, only in hindsight.  When we say the words of Psalm 18 aloud, doing so gives us a chance to give thanks, and these words become a corporate act of praise.  The words also remind us that God is always active, with us, even when we’re blind to God’s presence.  In the midst of our troubles and challenges, we can turn to our Lord, and God will be our haven, a rock we can trust, a shield, a refuge. 

            In the light of this third week of Epiphany, let us pray now and every day:

“Be our light in the darkness, O Lord, and in your great mercy defend us from all perils and dangers of this night; for the love of your only Son, our Savior Jesus.” 

           I look forward to seeing you at a Convention or at church soon.