Poster - Worship Slides

Poster - Front-and-Center Slides

Poster - Event Slides

This September, our state found itself in the midst of the biggest natural disaster of the century. The floods that devastated the Front Range during those three days were of such a vast scale that it has been difficult to comprehend the scope of the damage. Thousands of our fellow citizens lost their homes, property and, in some tragic cases, life itself.

Embedded in the pictures of raging rivers and destroyed homes are countless stories of rescue and heroism. Skilled professionals as well as common folks reached out to those in harm’s way with commitment and compassion, demonstrating once again the more noble traits of our nature. Rebuilding roads and infrastructure will be costly and challenging, but the people of Colorado are resilient and resourceful. Rebuilding the scarred psyches of all those emotionally traumatized by what they have endured or lost is a challenge of a different nature, one that will take time and patience.

Throughout my life, at times of difficulty or challenge, I like to call to mind certain Bible verses. They help me focus spiritually and bring comfort and strength. Especially meaningful to me is Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.” In other words, in the midst of chaos and confusion, when people might be acting with panic and fear, take a deep breath and focus on these amazing words. Remember that God is still in control, despite all evidence to the contrary, and He will provide for our needs. It is not so much tragedy or devastation that can defeat us but rather how we choose to respond. This does not mean that we ourselves won’t be affected, but it does mean that “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” God wants us to turn to Him for peace and strength when the waters of life overwhelm us.

It is ironic that sometimes out of terrible events, blessings of an unexpected kind can be given birth. Perhaps that is one way that God answers our prayers. He can make us more compassionate to the needs of others. We can become appreciative of the gift of each day rather than taking so much for granted. The sun never looks so beautiful as it does when the clouds finally clear. Our responsibility as stewards of God’s creation can be sharpened as we think about better managing the resources God has given us and using discretion and wisdom in the building and management of our communities. People have the potential to become better than they were if challenge and loss are dealt with in a faithful and positive way. Never underestimate the blessings that the Lord can bring from trouble.

May our gracious God keep each of you safe and secure in His grace!

“Hesed” is a Hebrew word that means “kindness”, “mercy”, “loyalty”, “loving-kindness” or “steadfastness.” It’s the way God intends us to live together—a “love your neighbor as yourself”, active, selfless, sacrificial, caring-for-one-another brand of living contradictory to our fallen natures. The “Heseders” are continually looking to work together to share some small measure of God’s extraordinary love. Won’t you join us?