Pastor Doug's Thought For Today 3/31

March 31st, 2025
by Doug Walter

Good Morning,
I spent the end of last week in Columbia. The Bishop gathered the largest 60 churches in our Conference to talk about vision and future. It was fun to talk with other pastors and learn from them. I have to tell you I am thankful to be serving Ashland, we have been very blessed. The Bishop wants our churches to be known as the most loving churches in every community, I concur. I also had an ortho consult on Friday. It was not the news I wanted but they concur with my doctor, Michael Smith the only answer is a partial knee replacement. Here we go. I don't have a time frame, but that is where we are headed. I do believe I will run again, but it will be a long-term commitment to rehabilitation. My parents always said anything worth having is worth working for. A busy week at Ashland, I hope to connect with many of you.
Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Isaiah 53:5-6 (New International Version)
But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.

Today's Thought

Think about this passage. This was written long before the birth of Jesus. God speaking through the prophet is laying out the plan. We will be reconciled through the one to come. He will pay the price for us. I read this with sadness and joy. The experience of Jesus should make us all feel empathy for what he experienced, but also thankful for what he did. How can we not be thankful and follow Christ? Just a thought for today!