As I’m writing this update, Mr. Joe Biden has been sworn in as President of the United States and is speaking to the nation in his inaugural speech. It is a rousing address full of calls for unity, promises of prosperity, and HOPE for the future. That’s exactly what an “inauguration” is supposed to do… look forward to the future.
According to Merriam Webster, the word “inaugurate” comes from the Latin word inaugurare, which means “to consecrate by augury,” referring to the rites connected with reading omens. In ancient Rome, the main method of augury was the observation of the flight of birds, known as an auspice. For example, when looking for signs about a military or political decision, the augurs would observe the direction of the flight of birds as a good or bad sign.
While we might laugh at such a silly method for a look into the future, what other options are there? Everyone trusts in something – fate, luck, karma, human ingenuity, hard work… it’s the nature of human beings to look for guidance and security, in short, for hope. No doubt, with all the chaos and destruction we’ve seen over the last year, our nation and our world desperately need HOPE.
The apostle Peter gave us a rock-solid source of hope for the future when he said, “Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ” – 1 Peter 1:13. Notice the action Peter has in mind, but don’t miss where our hope is rooted. It’s grace! This Sunday we’ll dig into that source of hope and the difference it makes in our lives.
I’m very happy our new president asked our nation to pause and pray. I’m thrilled that “Amazing Grace” was sung over the capital. No doubt for many who were there and who watched remotely, it was a genuine and heartfelt cry to the God of the universe. My prayer is that it was more than just a ceremonial rite, like looking for omens in a flock of birds.
Don’t forget, we’ll have ONE outdoor service this Sunday at 10:45 AM. Bring your own lawn chair and/or blanket. Please Register ASAP for the 10:45am Church on the Grass Worship Service with this LINK. Please read through the instructions on safety before you attend. If you are unable to join the outdoor service, please attend one of our two online options. Just visit valleychurch.org and click on the colorful Join us online banner.
Also, Coffee Connection groups are available on various days and times during the week. Grab your computer and a cup of your favorite beverage and join us for fellowship, reflection, and prayer. Please contact info@valleychurch.org for information on how to participate.
In Christ,
Kurt