by Sylvia Hutchinson

Psalm 18:29:
“With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall.” 

Well I don’t think I can take this short passage literally. At 82 in the midst of a pandemic, I am not advancing against any literal troops, nor am I scaling walls of any height. However I am walking a little farther as I take my daily stroll (with the encouragement of my doctors). I am working in the yard a bit more (with the encouragement of the women gardeners who do the tough parts).

I am learning to use the computer for zoom classes which I never thought I would (with the incredible assistance of a colleague and students who are unbelievably patient and knowledgeable). I am cooking all my meals at home which I had not done in years and years (with the recipes from books and friends who are also vegan and gluten-free). I am cleaning out most of my closets which is a Herculean task (with encouragement from Rick and Amanda Martin who have painted and remodeled parts of my house).

I have not hugged any of you, but I have named you in my evening prayers. I have enjoyed your phone calls, emails, porch and yard visits.

All this is to say I am so grateful to friends, colleagues, students, all of you at Oconee Street UMC who give and give and give to others. You have encouraged me to find new ways of trying, to keep working to do a little more each day, to find new ways to share. This Christmas is a time of thanksgiving for me. I thank God for the support provided in praying and listening for answers. I thank my Oconee Street UMC family for being the sure instruments of our Lord.

Dear Lord, how thankful I am that I belong to your church, your Oconee Street Church, and have the grand opportunity to know and share with your messengers of hope and love. Help each one of us to listen for your call and follow where you lead. Amen