First of all I want to thank God for his protection over us. Some areas in the Eastern region were hit hard but most of us who are living in MD and VA weren't as affected. I heard that so many people died, lost their houses, businesses, and many are still without power in some states. I pray God's love and peace will fill everyone's hearts and mind as the victims are suffering from their losses.
One good story I heard on the radio this morning is that the utility workers in our area are volunteering to go help with restoration projects in the New York and New Jersey area. We always have people who sacrifice and go out of their way to help the ones in need in times of trouble. Every time we have a natural disaster hit us or even when the terrorists attacked our country, people like policemen, fire fighters, utility workers and even civilian volunteers have sacrificed so much for our country. My deepest gratitude goes out to all of them. And I specially want to thank Pepco for their continued effort over the past few years to improve their service and reliability. It certainly paid off this time because I, along with many Pepco customers, appreciated having power during the time when the hurricane hit our area.
Do you remember how crazy it was last weekend? People were getting ready to face the storm in many different ways. Every grocery store was out of water bottles and gas stations ran out of gas. My parents and I filled so many buckets with water in case of emergency; we are still trying to get rid of those buckets of water.
Speaking of getting ready for the storm, we as a NCFC congregation had a very special service last week to prepare ourselves for the storm as we heard the story of Jesus calming the stormy water. We sang a song together, "When the oceans rise and thunders roar, I will soar with You above the storm, Father you are king over the storm, I will be still and know You are God." It's amazing how God's word and a passage that was selected many months ago could fit perfectly with the current events and even the natural disaster that was about to happen. I'm not trying to spiritualize it too much but I can't help but be amazed by the timing of the message.
Lastly, i want to give a shout out to the church maintenance group over at MD campus for working so hard to restore the damage made by Sandy. It was a rainy, windy and very cold week to work outside but the weather did not stop them from showing their dedication and love for the Lord and His church. Good job and thank you!
From Pastor Brian’s Heart
November 04, 2012
It is hard to believe that in about three days we will know who will occupy the White House for the next four years. I hope everyone who is eligible to vote has already cast their vote or is definitely planning to do so on Tuesday. Who should you vote for as the next president of the US? If you haven’t made up your mind yet, you should definitely vote for my candidate, the candidate of God’s choice!
With all kidding aside, I hope everyone prayerfully seeks God’s guidance in selecting the next president. I happen to live in the “swing” state of Virginia, where one vote is likely to make a difference one way or another on the outcome. However, many states – including Maryland – historically lean heavily one way, making voters of the opposing party feel as if their votes will not make any difference.
Often times we feel insignificant and unable to make a difference whether it is at home, at school, at work, or at church. “What can I do? I am just one person,” is often the excuse we use to avoid getting involved with a cause that we feel strongly about. In times like those I remind myself of the Genesis account of Abraham pleading to God to spare Sodom and Gomorrah from destruction. Ultimately the two cities are destroyed completely by fire and brimstone because not even ten righteous men could be found in these cities of tens of thousands of people. Am I saying that ten extra people showing up to vote will definitely make a difference in this presidential election? No, although that is possible. What is important to keep in mind, however, is to never underestimate the power of one - one idea, one vote, or one conviction. No matter how impossible the odds seem, we who have been called to be the salt and light of the world should continue to “expect great things from God and attempt great things for God” as William Carey did.
Just as heated as the presidential election itself, seems to be the fight over what is known as “Question 7” on Maryland ballots. I do not know all the details, but basically it is a vote on whether to make gambling more accessible to Marylanders and nearby residents. The plan includes building a new video lottery facility in PG County, increasing the number of lottery machines, and allowing video lottery facilities to operate 24/7. People with good intentions on both sides of the issue argue why voting for or against Question 7 will benefit the residents of Maryland. The proponents say the proceeds from the expanded gambling industry will benefit the public schools while the opponents say it will further ruin the lives of those who are already susceptible to gambling.
I am sure this is a complex issue with multiple dimensions, and I have not formed my opinion based on thorough research. However, my gut instinct is against Question 7. Why? Simply put, I do not believe “the end justifies the means.” When King Saul defeated the Amalekites in 1 Samuel, he spared the best of the sheep and cattle to sacrifice to the LORD despite God’s command to destroy everything. King Saul’s intention might have been honorable, but he disobeyed God in the process. So my beloved MD church family members, regardless of where you fall on the political spectrum, pray hard for God’s perfect will to be done for the nation and for your state. But do your part; go vote.
From Pastor Sara’s Heart
November 4, 2012