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Do you know why I am bad at napping? 
Because if you do, please let me know! When I was a teen and in my twenties I could nap like a champ. Since then, I've lost my touch. Is it coffee? Age? I have no idea. Most of the time its no problem. But when I've had a few exhausting days and then have some quiet on a day off, there are times I just wish I could settle into a solid snooze. 
Somewhat surprisingly, there is a place I can sometimes catch a nap. There have been several times when I'm out fishing (usually by myself) on a river somewhere in the wilderness and I'll stretch out on the bank... slowly start soaking up the warm rays of the sun... and ...start ...to ... ... drift ... ... ... off. (to sleep, not down the river... thought I should be clear about that). I usually am surprised that I fall asleep in that kind for a few reasons: I'm lying on rocks (no pillow) and the possibility of a bear or cougar happening upon me. 
I am reminded of some of the words from Psalm 23: 

"He leads me beside quiet waters" (vs 2) 
Can you remember what line follows next? 
"He restores my soul." (vs 3)

That's not surprising to me. Each of us have certain places or settings, or seasons of life that God has created to be refreshing and restorative for us. They are safe places of rejuvenation. 
As our church family knows, Pastor Trevor has been away on a special health-related leave for three months. This time has been an important safe space for his wellbeing and God's good work of bringing life and healing to the deepest places of his inner world. I have been journeying with Trevor throughout these months and am so pleased with God's work and Trevor's courage and determination to give time and space for God to do Psalm 23 work in his life in this time. As a church family we value "Wholiness" (health) and understand that it is so important to give priority to our whole wellbeing. In the last several weeks Trevor has been expressing an eagerness to return to his ministry role at CPC. I knew this was a great sign of God's Psalm 23 work in Trevor. We have been working on a plan to ease Trevor back into his role over the next few weeks. Some of you have already seen him around, visiting the potluck at camp, around the office from time to time during the week, and with the kids this past Sunday. We are thrilled! 
Here is a note from Pastor Trevor: 

Well, I have great news, I am back to work after a few months leave. I’m very thankful to the Pastoral staff and congregation for the continued prayers and support over the last while, my family and I are very appreciative and thankful for you all. I look forward to spending time over coffees/meals/church drop-ins over the next while. To those who are experiencing times of unrest and feeling hopeless I want to encourage you with a verse that has spoken life to me. Philippians 4:7, “Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”

 

In Christ,

Pastor Trevor


I want to thank our church for being a loving and supportive family for Trevor, the Finstads, and also for all who need God's Psalm 23 work in our lives (don't we all!?). I want to thank all our volunteers and staff who have stepped up in many ways over the last number of months. I also want to acknowledge the great work that Lorne & Heather Willms and Clair Farnell have been providing to cover for responsibilities and projects needing attention in Trevor's absence. They will continue to serve on our team in these capacities through August as Trevor transitions back into work and prepares for the Fall season in front of us. 
As I conclude today, let's all take a moment to consider the wonderful work only Jesus could bring to our lives through the words of Psalm 23: 

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures,

he leads me beside quiet waters,

he restores my soul.

He guides me along the right paths    for his name’s sake.

Even though I walk

    through the darkest valley,

I will fear no evil,    for you are with me;your rod and your staff,    they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me

    in the presence of my enemies.You anoint my head with oil;    my cup overflows.

Surely your goodness and love will follow me

    all the days of my life,and I will dwell in the house of the Lord    forever.


Nap time?
Pastor Mike