First steps

Today’s Reading: John 13:15(NIV)

15 [Jesus said,] “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”

Good morning!

There is nothing more exciting than seeing a baby turned toddler take its first steps. Last night, Grandpa Jeff and Granny Deb sat on the soft carpeting of the living room floor, cheering and encouraging our youngest grandson Andrew on, as he took his very first steps to us. Rachel said that Andrew took two steps over the weekend, but had not been brave enough to try again. I think he needed an older, more mature audience. He was high-stepping it last night! It’s funny – the wee ones get so excited that they begin to laugh and then they lose their balance and fall down. It helps when there is someone there to pull you back up on your feet and encourage you to try again. Andrew really liked all the applause. He would stop midway between us and start to clap for himself, knowing we would clap along with him. Isn’t it great to experience some sense of accomplishment, even as you’re learning how to walk the steep path set before you?

I read an inspiring article today on the United Methodist News Service wire entitled, “Pittsburgh Church Helps Amputees in Sierra Leone” – the link is listed below:

http://www.umc.org/site/apps/nlnet/content3.aspx?c=lwL4KnN1LtH&b=2072

The congregation of Mount Lebanon United Methodist Church was able to watch a video clip and see for themselves their mission gifts of love at work. They experienced the wonder of awesome transformation as young children fitted with prosthetic legs are now able to walk, run and play with their families and friends. First steps are all the more precious when courageous hearts dare to make a difference in the lives of others.

Today, our nation celebrates and remembers its first steps on this Independence Day holiday. We are reminded of our country’s struggle toward freedom, the many times when we’ve fallen down, only to be helped up by an encouraging neighbor. We lend our support to help others who are struggling to get back up again, knowing that when we link hands and hearts together, we succeed in taking those crucial first steps of faith. Jesus said, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” May we find new ways each day to encourage and support each other, as we imitate the example of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. May our first steps begin and end in His love.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

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