The Island of Worry

Back in the 1980’s,  I went to several pastor’s retreats in rural Virginia off the Blue Ridge Parkway near Ferrum, Virginia.  Barney Davidson, my District Superintendent (pastoral supervisor) had a home there and he was gracious to invite myself and many other pastors there.   It was a time of singing, worship, reflection, and the telling of stories  that were perhaps part truth and part fiction.    A good number of those pastors are not with us anymore having gone from the church militant to the church triumphant.  Out in front of Barney’s house was a small pond.   While some ponds serve as fishing spots, this pond served more as a place for reflection.  In the middle of the pond was a small island that was accessible through a planked walkway from the mainland.  I remember well a small sign that was on a stake on that small island that said:  “You can bring your woes and worries to this island.   But when you leave, leave them here knowing that the hands of Jesus are adequate to hold them all big and small.”  I made the trip to the island of worry several times in my times there on those retreats.  There were times in my life in those days when my worries seems large and massive.  Sometimes, I would leave them there.  Yet, I confess sometimes I would later pick them up again. 

  

In these days, many folks have found themselves filled with worry as they have faced public health concerns, loss of jobs, civil unrest, and  uncertainty about the future.   While you may have never visited that home near Ferrum, Virginia before or  you are not a pastor, know this truth:  you have a place where you can lay down the worries of your life in these days and everyday.  It is at the feet of the Lord Jesus who is able to do more than you ask or ever imagine.  There are a lot of things in life that often seem massive and great;  whatever they might be, know that the God we know is greater.  Psalm 55:22 puts it this way:   “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you;  he will never let the righteous be shaken.”   Have a joy-filled week and I will look forward to next time.-  Pastor Randy Wall  

PRAYER :     O God,   we confess that sometimes the cares of this life get us down.  Lord, I believe;  help me in my unbelief.   I place myself and my cares in your hands;  through Jesus Christ our Lord.   Amen.