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This past Saturday, we had a wonderful time at our Monticello Sliding Party. It was full of laughter and joy. But on the way back, I had a small problem. My car got stuck in the middle of a hill. Pressing the accelerator and turning the wheel did not help. It seemed hopeless.
But help was on the way. Bob Lyons and another gentleman came alongside me. One pushed from the front, and the other guided me from the back. After several attempts, the car was finally free.
That moment made me reflect. During Sunday’s message, I shared how God often lifts me out of the emotional pits during my morning prayer time. Again and again, I learn this truth: it is not about trying harder; it is about relying more fully on God. When we work, we work. But when we pray, God works.
It is said that Martin Luther spent two hours a day in prayer. When his schedule became even busier, he said, “I have so much to do that I shall spend the first three hours in prayer.” Instead of reducing prayer when overwhelmed, he increased it.
I remember something my mentor, Eugene Peterson, once shared in his book Contemplative Pastor. When I said I was very busy, he gently replied, “You are busy because you are lazy.” At first, I did not understand. It sounded unfair. But over time, I began to see the truth.
Many times, I was busy because I was being driven by my schedule and my to-do list. But when I pray, God gives vision, clarity, and direction. Prayer helps me move ahead of the schedule instead of always feeling behind.
If we do not want to live in constant busyness, we must pray. If we do not want to be dragged by our schedules, we must go ahead through prayer. Let us say, “I’m too busy not to pray,” instead of, “I’m too busy to pray.”
This past Sunday, we explored 1 Corinthians 13, the Love Chapter, within the real struggles of the Corinthian church. If you missed it, you can watch or listen here:
Services
Message
May the Lord meet you in quiet moments this week. And may His strength carry you forward.
Pastor Victor
P.S. This Wednesday is our Lenten Soup & Devotion at noon at Houlton UMC. The Houlton Community Handbell Choir will offer special music, and Pastor Joyce will lead the devotion. All are welcome.
P.S. 2 If you have not yet returned your Baby Bottle for the Pregnancy Care Center, please bring it next Sunday. If you already have, thank you for your generous partnership.
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