Monday, March 19, 2012

by
Rev. Dr. Dawson B. Taylor
Executive Minister Devotion Monday, March 19, 2012 - Isaiah 43:1 - Rev. Dr. Dawson B. Taylor - Executive Minister - Cathedral of Hope UCC Dallas Texas

Scripture
“But now thus says the Lord, who created you, O Jacob, who formed you, O Israel: Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.” Isaiah 43:1

A Word of Hope
I’m not superstitious, but when you are defending your doctoral thesis that represents three years of reading, research and writing, you want every advantage you can get. Before I left Dallas last Sunday night, I knew that I wanted something tangible to hold and remind me of why I was doing what I was doing. As I left my office after worship last Sunday, I took a pocket piece that sits on a shelf in front of my desk.

Almost four years ago, a long-time member of Cathedral of Hope who was volunteering in the church office came into my office that morning with a small wrapped gift. It was the pocket piece that I took with me to Chicago and it reads: “Fear Not For I Am With You.” It was given to me by John Neel.

John was one of the most faithful and delightful people I have ever known. He could recite poetry and anecdotes like no one else and had the penmanship of an angel. It broke my heart when I received the phone call that he had passed away almost two years ago.

That pocket piece reminded me that God was near and I had nothing to fear, that John was looking over my shoulder cheering me on and I found peace in the midst of my fear.

It seems to me, these days that fear is all around us. If you find yourself fearful today, I hope that you can remember someone like John who has impacted your life. But more importantly, I hope you will remember what the prophet Isaiah taught us long ago: you belong to God; no matter what.

Prayer
Everlasting God, thank you that you know my name. Amen.