February 7th
OK, so what's so special about February 7th? We know that the 14th is Valentine's Day. What's the big deal about the 7th? Well, if you take the time to look up the historic temperature averages for the month you will discover that February 7th is the day that the average high temperature goes from 55 degrees to 56 degrees. From that point on, with the exception of just two or three days, the average temperature begins to climb. February 7th marks the tipping point, the day in North Texas when, on average, the world starts getting warmer!
I know that you are thinking, "We have a preacher who is a nut! Who could be so obsessive about the weather that they know the precise day when the climate starts warming up?" And, of course, you may be right. You probably wouldn't get an argument from my immediate family. But if you love the warm weather of spring, the greening of the earth, and outdoor activities, it just seems normal to me that this would be a red letter day on the calendar.
Just as nature has seasons and rhythms, so do our lives. There are times when we are living on top of the mountain, and there are times when we find ourselves in the valley. What we most need during those valley times is just a glimmer of hope, the knowledge that the day will come when things will start to get better. In other words, we need to know that a February 7th is headed our way. The dark and cold times are tolerable when we know that spring is inevitable.
That is the power of the Christian faith. It realistically acknowledges that life is difficult. For instance, we are now in the season of Lent, which is the liturgical equivalent of living in the valley. But we are always strengthened and encouraged by the promise of Easter, which is THE red letter day that infuses all of life with hope and joy.
As you read this, know that today is the day that the earth begins it slow journey toward the beauty and life-giving power of spring. Be reminded that God is at work in the world even when you can't perceive it. And that God is at work in your life as well, even during the darkest of times. Easter, sooner or later, always arrives!
Don Underwood
Sanctuary Services 8:45, 9:45 and 11 a.m. This Sunday, Rev. Don Underwood will preach "Journey Into Temptation." Contemporary Service (Christian Life Center Gym)  11 a.m.In Full Court Worship, Rev. Abe Smith will preach "Somebody, One Body." |
Miss the last message? "The Dream" by Rev. Don Underwood "Wise Eyes" by Rev. Abe Smith
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Members and attenders of Christ United Methodist Church will soon receive an email about MyCUMC. MyCUMC is a feature on the church website that will require a username and password. MyCUMC will enable you to register for events, schedule and manage contributions, volunteer and more. Every individual will have their own login and will receive their own login credentials via email. If the church does not have your email address, a letter with this information will be mailed to you. Stay tuned! |