Dear SCC & Friends,
I am the light of the world; he who follows Me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life. ~John 8:12
Update #27
Each of us can reflect on certain events or points in time that could be called a defining moment. I’m not speaking so much of events that are ceremonial or customary in nature such as weddings, graduations, birthdays, etc. Rather, I’m referring to those unplanned or unexpected moments that by effect create a paradigm shift of how we see things. Frank Koch relates this humorous story from an article at the Naval Institute – Two battleships assigned to the training squadron had been at sea on maneuvers in heavy weather for several days. I was serving on the lead battleship and was on watch on the bridge as night fell. The visibility was poor with patchy fog, so the captain remained on the bridge keeping an eye on all activities.
Shortly after dark, the lookout on the wing of the bridge reported, “Light, baring on the starboard bow.”
“Is it steady or moving astern?” the captain called out.
Lookout replied, “Steady, Captain,” which meant we were on a dangerous collision course with that ship.
The Captain then called to the signalman, “Signal the ship: We’re on a collision course, advise you change course 20 degrees.”
Back came the signal, “Advisable for you to change course 20 degrees.”
The Captain said, “Send, I’m a captain, change your course 20 degrees.”
“I’m a seaman second class,” came the reply. “You had better change course 20 degrees.”
By that time, the captain was furious. He spat out, “Send, I’m a battleship, change course 20 degrees.”
Back came the flashing light, “I’m a LIGHTHOUSE.” We changed course!
A great story that saved both captain and crew. Forty-eight years ago, God changed my course for which I am eternally grateful. It was a defining moment, which has led to many other defining moments in Christ. If someone told you following God would be all smooth sailing…they lied. What He promised was to never leave us or forsake us, even when we feel distant or disconnected. He understands our condition and is intimately acquainted with all our ways. Nothing escapes His eye! COVID and its challenges have affected all of our lives, but He is in this! There is no problem or present situation beyond God’s reach or purview. Jesus is both the light and the lighthouse! Let’s take courage that in Him there is no shadow of turning…the same yesterday, today and forever. Next week’s update will have our plans for restarting regular church services. Keep up the good work! We were made for such a time as this…God bless you!
Yours in His love,
Kevin