Pastor’s Corner – June 2021

While crossing the Atlantic on an ocean liner, F.B. Meyer was asked to address the first-class passengers. At the captain’s request, he spoke on “Answered Prayer.” An agnostic who was present at the service was asked by his friends, “What did you think of Dr. Meyer’s sermon?” He answered, “I didn’t believe a word of it.” That afternoon Meyer went to speak to the steerage passengers. Many of the listeners at his morning address went along, including the agnostic, who claimed he just wanted to hear “what the babbler had to say.”

Before going to the service, the agnostic put two oranges in his pocket. On his way, he passed an elderly woman sitting in her deck chair fast asleep. Her hands were open. In the spirit of fun, the agnostic put the two oranges in her outstretched palms. After the meeting, he saw the old lady happily eating one of the pieces of fruit. “You seem to be enjoying that orange,” he remarked with a smile. “Yes, sir,” she replied, “My Father is very good to me.” “Your father? Surely your father can’t be still alive!” “Praise God,” she replied, “He is very much alive.” “What do you mean?” pressed the agnostic. She explained, “I’ll tell you, sir. I have been seasick for days. I was asking God somehow to send me an orange. I suppose I fell asleep while I was praying. When I awoke, I found He had not only sent me one orange but two!” The agnostic was speechless. Later he was converted to Christ. Yes, praying in God’s will brings an answer.

I’ve learned something humbling about prayer during the last several weeks. We often speak about the power of prayer, as many have gone through hard times and stood up in church thanking all for their continued prayers. I would reinforce the notion of prayers power as an  encouragement for all to pray, as scripture tells us, “Without ceasing.”

I have to admit there are times when those words of encouragement just rolled off my lips with very little thought or feeling behind them. Sometimes, I admit to paying “lip-service” to the notion of how powerful prayer is.

Leading up to my surgery, I didn’t really give it much thought. I knew it had to be done, and I didn’t think I was nervous or apprehensive at all. Then, on the Sunday before the surgery, my friend Pastor Doug, and Patti came to my door with communion. Then Patti handed me get-well cards with prayers and well-wishes from so many of you.

I was overwhelmed. I think, for the first time in my life, I truly felt the power of prayer; it’s a good feeling! My friends, never underestimate the power of prayer. It truly helped me through the surgery and especially through my recovery. I am so grateful to you all. Please keep the prayers coming!

Blessing to you all from your recently humbled pastor,

Cory