The State Fair tagline was re-branded the “Great Minnesota Get BACK Together” and yesterday the gates re-opened at the fairgrounds. I suspect there were thousands who celebrated their returns by taking in all the sites, many familiar and some new, and over-stuffing themselves on innumerable fried, frozen, and frothy delights.
We pray that this beloved tradition proceeds as safely as possible, and attendees take seriously the precautions for large gatherings in this time of a continuing pandemic. I’m sure I’m not the only one longing for these sorts of opportunities to return to beloved traditions while also carrying great anxiety about how we might be exposing ourselves to further hardship. I’m still on the fence on whether I’ll make a visit to the fair for my fix of cold milk & warm cookies.
The next featured story in our worship series, “I Love to Tell the Story” is from the Gospel of Matthew when Jesus walks on the water and Peter attempts the same. I would encourage you to spend some time with this story today. Like Peter, are there times when our eagerness to act might put us in peril? Does God really assume that we have what it takes to be called out of the boat? When the inevitable happens, do we trust that God will still act?
The uncertainties that continue in our world are like an unsettled sea. Do we have faith that the boats we’re sailing will keep us safe? Let’s give thanks that God comes to ease our fears. May our trust in God be greater than our doubts. And, if we go, may the milk be cold, and the cookies be warm.
May God’s peace come to you this day. -Pastor Peter
Let us pray…
Gracious God, come to us when we are unsettled and uncertain. Help us to trust in your mercy, that with confidence we may face the challenges of this day. Keep us and those we love safe, healthy, and able to share your love with those in need. Amen.