Today’s Word from Pastor Jim…
“Who satisfies you with good as long as you live, so that your youth is renewed like the Eagles.” Psalm 103:5
This familiar verse touched me in a new way this morning; perhaps it was because I was watching a video last night featuring Joe Walsh. Where was I?
Robin got a new scooter. You may have seen it featured in our worship service last Sunday. Robin got a new scooter and she brought it to church to share with her friends. After a little good-natured teasing, I checked the L & I regulations, called our insurance company, and located our first aid kit. We were ready now. Robin was showing us the way, scooting around the nearly empty parking lot. Karl was a natural, Amy glided effortlessly down the sidewalk, Laura videotaped the frivolity, as we all took turns turning back the clock to younger, simpler days.
When the play was done, we returned to work. The work is always there waiting for us. But as we returned, we were refreshed, smiling more, thinking more creatively. All because Robin got a scooter, decided to share it with us, and we took the time to play.
“Surely, all God’s people like to play.” John Muir, American Naturalist
“To the art of working well, a civilized race would add the art of playing well.” George Santayana, American Philosopher.
“Play is hard to maintain as you get older. You get less playful. You shouldn’t of course.” Richard Feynman, Physicist.
This pandemic has robbed us of many things. Play, in the midst of isolation, can be hard to come by. I pray that we will all find some way to connect with our younger selves this week. See if we can rekindle playfulness; it will most certainly improve our disposition. I am not suggesting that you all get a scooter, at least not without reviewing your insurance coverage, locating the first aid kit, putting 911 on your speed dial, and checking the occupancy rate at local rehabilitation facilities. But perhaps, you could play a game or a practical joke, call a childhood friend, or make s’mores using your gas grill.
May your youth be renewed like the Eagles! I am going to check in to Hotel California. Checking out might not be so easy!
One day closer,
Pastor Jim
