My brothers and sister, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance.

James 1:2-3

Our Florida Conference Bishop, Ken Carter, recently wrote about the difficult summer we have been through as a people of Christian faith. He mentioned the upcoming February General Conference for United Methodists to address key issues regarding the LGBQT community which has already caused rift and divide in our denomination. He mentioned the latest revelation from the Pope regarding the sexual abuse, even at the high levels of the priesthood, which continues to haunt the Roman Catholic church. He spoke about the removal and continuing allegations against the lead pastor of the Willow Creek Community Church which has been a devastating blow to many evangelical Christians.

It has indeed been a challenging summer for those who take their walk with Christ seriously. Bishop Carter shared this prayer which I hope will speak to all of us:

O God,
You are our judge and our hope.
In Jesus You have come to live among us, full of grace and truth.
 
Give us a faith that has integrity
and a witness that has clarity,
so that all may know You
and Your love, and the abundant life
You have come to give us,
and that Your will may become a reality on earth, as it is in heaven.
 
In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

Peace,

Cliff