In Alaska there is a true story about a sled dog named Anna. Anna was a dog whose owner was uncertain that she was big enough or strong enough to serve on her team. As the team of dogs ran across the ice and snow they came across a patch of soft ice. Anna fell into the icy water. She was still connected to the team of dogs, putting all of them at risk. The other dogs began to pull and work together. In the middle of the crisis, Anna dug deep inside of her. She was determined not to give up. Eventually, with the help of the other dogs, she pulled her way out of the frozen lake back onto the ice. Anna shook off the icy water and was ready to run again. Her owner recognized the character and strength in Anna. She told her she was “big enough” and promoted her to lead dog.
This week I invite you to consider the times in your life when you need extra strength and power. What do you depend upon to get you through difficult times? When you face challenges at school, home, or work to whom do you turn?
On Pentecost the Holy Spirit came and blessed the community with power, the power of God. As Christians living in the 21st Century, this power is still available to us! God wants to move through us, giving us what we need, so that we can be empowered to be the hands and feet of Jesus.
Doug and I thank you for the warm welcome to Hyde Park Community United Methodist Church. We look forward to getting to know you and your loved ones and serving Christ with you in the days ahead. May God richly bless you this week!
Peace,
Pastor Cathy Johns