The Pastoral Grind

(Originally written for Douglas County Publishing: Pastor's Meditation February 6, 2018) I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy.   Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live. The cords of death entangled me, the anguish of the grave came upon me; I was overcome by trouble and sorrow.   Then I called on the name of the Lord: “O Lord, save me!” The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion.   The Lord protects the simplehearted; when I was in great need, he saved me… Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.    (Psalm 116:1-6, 15) First of all, thank you to many of you who I’ve talked to, received cards from, know that you’ve been praying for me and my family in the recent passing of our newborn, Ellie Hope. We are grateful for your support and love, and for your care during the pregnancy and loss. Because of that experience, death has been in the front of my mind lately.   As I t