I began thinking of all the millions of people out of work and all the spill off and fallout from this recession. The media does not let us relax with the relenting tales of woe in our country. There must be a lot of fear, anxiety, and panic out there. We are told things may get worse before they get better and nobody really knows if the bailout will work or if and when this slide will come to an end. We may be nearing double digit unemployment. I have felt nervous lately. I have people depending on me. I have a mortgage to pay. I am sure I am part of a vast group of people feeling the same way. It is frightening.

And then I thought of a Bible verse and I almost become angry. The verse talks about the fact that God knows the number of hairs on our head, and God takes care of the birds, so surely He will take care of us. Then, the verse says "Seek first the kingdom of God and all these things will be added to you. " "Don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will take care of itself. " Excuse me! What does that mean! I cannot help but worry. Should I cloister myself in a room and pray and suddenly all my needs will be met? And worry is not like a switch that can be shut off. Such a call not to worry made me feel even more anxious. What was I to do? What is anyone, gripped by fear, to do?

If you or a friend has ever faced bouts with worry, anxiety, or depression, there is no easy way out. Here are some things that have helped me and I pass them along as a fellow traveler on the Way:
1. You must talk about your situation with friends.
2. Find someone to pray with you.
3. Faith in God's help does NOT mean that we do nothing.
4. Do something each day to address your situation.
5. "Change the tapes. " Some of the things you are telling yourself are not true.
6. Try to develop a plan of action (with a friend?) to address the situation.
7. Give yourself permission to feel anxious. That is just where you are at, and you don’t need to feel anxious about being anxious. It’s not a sin!

There are many other avenues you may need to explore, to help you in and through anxious times.

Now, back to those Scripture verses mentioned above. A heart and mind focused on God and His kingdom does not sit back and wait for God to rescue. Seeking God’s kingdom takes commitment and energy. Seeking God's kingdom means that you want to provide for your family, so you may need to send out 100 resumes. Seeking God's kingdom means that your sagging heart needs encouragement, so you call a friend and talk. Seeking God's kingdom means that God is actually IN what you are in, and He wants to hear your prayers, concerns, and misgivings. You can unload on God. We cannot change tomorrow, which will have its own issues, to be sure. But we can seek God's kingdom today. The circumstances do not automatically or magically change, but maybe we will. Even if it is only a little at a time.

Recently, I have needed to talk to a friend and ask for prayer. I have tried out some new ideas and ways of thinking. Circumstances have not changed. But I have. I still have plenty to be concerned about economically. This is going to be a very tough time. But I am beginning to change. New ideas breed new ideas. Energy gives birth to more energy. There is less paralysis and more action. I believe God hears my prayers. I believe anew and afresh that He cares.

Interestingly, looking back, I have sought God and His kingdom without even realizing it. I have been praying more, talking to more people, writing in my journal more prolifically, and actually looking forward to daily Bible reading. Circumstances have not changed. I remain concerned about the future. But I have changed. Maybe the "things" that will be added to those who seek God's Kingdom are "things" such as peace and hope and the ability to cope. It really is a wonderful verse of Scripture: Seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and all these things will be added unto you.

In the dead of winter, in a bad and worsening economy, let us remember to turn our eyes upon Jesus. We cannot know what tomorrow will bring. But God’s eye is on the sparrow, so I know He watches you. I pray for the “things” of God's peace and hope to visit you this day and in these wobbly times. May his mercy and grace fill you. And, in His strength, may you seek and find what you need. Even if it is only a little bit at a time.

Rev. Brad Thompson

As January comes to a close and February is beginning, I am longing to see the signs of spring. I love the snow and the cold weather, but I have had enough of it; how about you?

We had a very good annual meeting in January, giving our review of 2008. I hope you had a chance to read the committee reports and have checked out the 2009 budget and the financial situation of our church. You will see that everyone has done a great job but, as always, there is still work to be done. As we begin 2009, we are re-visiting the purpose of our church. Our Council asked Pastor Brad to give us his thoughts on how we might increase our membership and he shared the following*:

"First, I foresee a person or small group in the church whose sole purpose is follow-up on those who have been absent from us and those who have recently visited us for the first time…. This says that people matter to St. Paul's.

Second, every time there is a social event (St. Paul's is good at these!), we would want to invite a friend or neighbor. People may be reluctant to attend a church service, but are often more willing to come to a church function that does not occur on a Sunday morning.

Third, we want to begin to think about planning something FOR the Community. What are the needs in Franklin Park these days? ....What do the people of our community need, and how can St. Paul's provide help?....”

The Council agrees that following these steps in the coming months will help us fulfill what it means to be the church. So, invite your family and friends to church or one of our events (Mardi Gras is just around the corner, February 21st!) and help us "…enlarge the circle and extend the love and grace of God. "*

Stay warm and peace be with you,
Debbie Wisowaty
Council President
* From the Pastor’s Report, The Year in Review 2008