Introduction

We are living through a strange and confusing season in our community, our country, and our world. We see the blush of light upon the horizon, but many are uncertain whether the light is waxing or waning, whether the sun is rising or setting.

We want this health crisis to be over yesterday, but it will not fade until some future tomorrow. Meanwhile, we are anxious about our health and wellbeing, about the future for ourselves and the ones we love, and for our personal "nances. We are lamenting some past decisions and celebrating others. #ese devotionals are intended to turn us toward the future that belongs to God. It is my small e$ort to increase our faith and to intensify our prayer life as individuals and as the church of Jesus Christ on mission in a rapidly changing world. We should not be anxious about tomorrow, even when it is the year 2020, the year of COVID-19. Jesus said that each day has enough trouble of its own. He urges us to enjoy the Father’s peace no matter what comes as the world turns.

Jesus also taught us how to use stories to bring home spiritual truths. Most of the stories to follow are vignettes of my life as a father, a pastor, and the second born of thirteen children. I wrote them over a period of years and edited them for this devotional series. #ey are glimpses into my life and maybe into yours.

If you read the Scripture reference, the daily devotional will take approximately nine minutes to complete. I hope these stories will make you smile, give you hope, and help you get ready for whatever is coming.