Rev. Zach

First Presbyterian, Lafayette Louisiana Year C, Ordinary 17 7/25/10   Today's texts speak of something that fascinates me, the idea of talking directly to God.   We find this more in the Old Testament than the New, for in the New Testament Jesus becomes the presence of God for all time and space.   In the past I have asked people in classes and conversations to tell me if they feel they have ever experienced God's presence directly.   Not many people are willing to say they have.   Perhaps in church we might, but what if you were talking with a friend who is having a tough time in life.   Maybe they've had a difficult medical diagnosis or they have a child or grandchild going through some difficult times.   Take your pick because life is full of it: divorce, job loss, illness, the economy, ecology, politics...   Now, I imagine that most of us make the assumption that God is a part of these things and in the midst of all of our joys and suffering.     ...

Today is a very exciting day! My family and I have been on a road trip from Louisiana to Virginia.  We came up here so that I can perform the wedding ceremony for a friend.  Along the way we have had many adventures, connected with old friends, and shared a lot of quality time in the car.  Unfortunately the car has not enjoyed the quality time as much as we have.  We have had some minor trouble, but it is enough to get it checked.  So, I am now at least third Ford dealership that I have contacted, as they are the first to have been sympathetic. So here I sit waiting on my friend, Todd, to come and rescue me.  What a blessing it is to have friends!  Hopefully they can just reset the computer (because that seems to beat a problem), and we can we are on our way.  For now we have a packed schedule connecting with old friends, marrying and joining people together.  And for that privilege we give thanks! The rest will be as it will be, and God will see us through. Amen. Zach Sass...