First Presbyterian Church, Oak Ridge TN

Sabbath Psalm – Rest for the Weary

Psalm 116:7 Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the LORD has been good to you.

The first few verses of Psalm 116 encourage us to place our faith in God and become aware of God’s mindfulness over all that we experience and do. It’s a psalm of assurance, so it is often a ‘go-to’ passage of scripture for folks during difficult times and painful moments.

I like today’s highlighted verse because of the ancient Hebrew word for ‘rest’ which is menukhah. It is a place of peace and tranquility, relaxation and stillness. It is the rest that weary travelers seek at the end of a long journey; it is the repose that most folks yearn when they get home from a busy day at work; it is the peaceful place we retreat to in order to replenish our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It is also the final resting place that faithful people seek when the leave the surly bonds of Earth and look into the eternal loving face of God.

Perhaps you’re presently experiencing some anxiety; maybe there are problems and issues in your life which disturb your peace; perhaps you’re constantly worried about the turbulent times we’re living in and are just looking for some assurance. Well, God can sustain us with the stability and strength that we seek, and the ancient words of the psalmist can encourage and guide us to the rest – the menukhah – we require today. This is also why Christ Himself once said to His followers: “Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

Point to ponder: What things are currently wearying and worrying me? Am I willing to hand them over to God in order to find rest?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You know us completely and are aware of all things that disturb us. Grant us peace and grace, comfort and strength. In Your Holy Name, we rest and pray. Amen.

Pastor John

Our service did not stream on Facebook this morning. We invite you to watch the service on our YouTube channel, First Presbyterian Church of Oak Ridge.

5/13 Midweek Message – The Gift of Encouragement

Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (NIV)

Dear Friends,

One of the greatest gifts we can share with one another, especially during a pastoral vacancy, is that of encouragement. Whenever we meet on Sunday mornings, at classes, or other church gatherings, our presence and friendship strengthens the family of faith and helps others, as well as ourselves, during some very critical times. The bonds of friendship are particularly important for the spiritual well-being of many folks in our congregation. Worship enables us to draw closer to God; fellowship encourages us to draw closer together.

As each week passes, we are getting closer to the time when a new pastor will be approved and invited to serve the congregation. The vacancy process has intentionally been a long one to enable us to value and support one another as God’s people. We have grown spiritually together throughout this time and have increased our commitment to Christ and one another. Our church has welcomed new people and families, as well as new ministries and ideas. We have built up our faith with hope and love, as well as continually reaching out to the wider community with gifts of acceptance and deeds of compassion. God has blessed us in many ways, so we are almost ready for that approaching day when our new pastor arrives.

This gift of encouragement will also be essential to enable our new minister to settle in. When Evelyn and I came among you at first, we didn’t know what to expect. Your friendship and warm welcome, your support and love have helped us immensely to enjoy our time here. We discovered a whole new body of friends and have felt blessed by your encouragement, humor, and faith.

So, First Presbyterian, keep on doing what you do best – meet together in faith and encourage one another in love.

May God bless you and all your loved ones in Christ Jesus.

Pastor John

Join us at 10:30 this morning in the fellowship hall!