Day 4: May 8Scripture: Isaiah 54:1-3 Isaiah tells the people of Jerusalem that the future population of Jerusalem will exceed what it was before as they anticipate the restoration of the nation. He calls for them to “sing” and “sing loud” as they look forward to this restoration but they will need to lengthen the cords and strengthen the stakes of their tents as they prepare for this population. We also need to “sing” and “sing loud” in joyful anticipation as we length our cords and strengthen our stakes as we develop new Faith Communities throughout the Virginia Conference. This task we face is not a burden, it is labor of love as we offer opportunities for more young people, more diverse people and more people to find a “restoration” in their lives that can come to them only through Jesus Christ. Prayer: Most Gracious God, accept our gratitude for working beside us and through us as we face the daunting task of expanding your Kingdom in our Conference. We know we will struggle but we also know we will prevail because with you as a foundation we cannot fail. Jim Branscome |