Hello, my friends!
Did you know that throughout the history of the Jewish people, the Torah, or the first five books of the Old Testament, weren’t just recited and memorized, but sung? Much like the Psalms, these words weren’t merely spoken but savored, like honey on the lips. They were songs of hope and deep meaning. They spoke to who we are and who we are becoming. God was rescuing and redeeming his people. This was their story and it is ours.
Throughout the old manuscripts are musical notations. For instance, a selah, that reminds us to pause and reflect. Another of these is called a shalshelet, and this one is used only four times throughout the Torah. It is a symbol indicating duress and emotional strain. The protagonist in the story has reached a defining moment, and his future will be determined at the cost of considerable effort.
One of the four shalshelet moments happens to Joseph is Gen. 39:8 with Potiphar’s wife. This moment is certainly an immense trial for Joseph, and yet one we might overlook. We might prefer to think that Joseph’s heart is so filled with integrity that there wasn’t a moment of doubt. But the truth is, Joseph, strains against the temptation and barely succeeds. But as he flees, he steps closer to the destiny God has called him to.
I wonder how many of us are in our shalshelet moment? This is a time of crisis and even despair for so many. We are deeply confused and are losing hope in the things that once felt so secure. Which is one of the reasons that Joseph is such an incredible example of us today in 2020. Joseph doesn’t merely overcome temptation. Instead, he surrenders everything in unconditional trust to God. And so must we.
This trust requires us to stand firm in our integrity. To not lose hope. To not spiral into anxiety and blame, but instead, to continue to choose the things of heaven over the things of earth. To live in peace with each other, to sow seeds of peace, and to love those who are difficult to love. As we do, we grow, and our stories continue to unfold…part of God’s very plan to rescue and redeem the world.
And along the way, there are so many wonderful little glimpses of His hand at work. I am overjoyed at how many new people we are meeting through our times down at the beach. This past week, I was marveling at all the new faces we’re seeing. I just want to say again how welcome each of you is and what a joy to connect, especially during this season of so much disconnection.
And as we are opening up our sanctuary, we’re feeling a bit more adjusted to what we can accommodate. At this point, there is no need to email or reserve a spot. We do ask that you would wear a mask. What a gift to be worshipping together! We’d love to see you there!
And this coming Sunday, I am so pleased to announce that Daniel, our new youth pastor, will be preaching. I can’t wait! He’ll be continuing our previous theme of the lessons we are learning during this season of disruption, and I know we’ll all be so blessed to hear his heart!
So keep pressing on, my friends! I sure love you guys!
Jeff