Paul wrote this greeting in a letter to Philemon (Philemon 1:3) “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
These words are so powerful that even today they are repeated before each sermon. As I sit in church each Sunday, I try to clear my mind and let these words wash over me. I tune into these words for two reasons. First, I listen to receive the gifts of Grace and Peace. With Grace and Peace in your heart what more do you really need? Second, I know that I also need to clear my mind and heart in preparation to receive God’s word. It may be the only words of encouragement and guidance that I receive all week.
Let us pray: Dear Lord, Help us to clear our hearts and minds in preparation to receive you in all places and not only on Sundays. Help us to hear you as we give encouragement and help to each other. Help us to see your beauty in the sunrises and to feel your power in the hurricane. Guide those on the coast through the storms and be with each of us as renew ourselves over the long restful weekend. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
