In our current situation, I find myself cleaning my house with more detail than usual. I want to clean all those germs away, especially with all of us staying home! When I was growing up we had Saturday chores. My mom would put records on the stereo, turn up the volume and we would each do the jobs that were assigned. We dusted to Steve and Eydie, cleaned the bathroom to Robert Goulet and vacuumed to Doris Day. I learned lyrics to songs I never knew I would sing to! Many of you may not even know of these singers!

When my own children were at home, I followed this same example with them- Saturday cleaning to music. I’m showing my age now, but my children know all the words to songs from Carole King’s Tapestry album. 

As I was cleaning the bathroom last Saturday the song “You’ve Got a Friend” came on (Carole King of course). As I listened (and sang) the words, I couldn’t help but think of this song in a Christian vent, with Jesus as messenger:

When you're down and troubled
And you need a helping hand
And nothing, nothing is going right
Close your eyes and think of me
And soon I will be there
To brighten up even your darkest night
You just call out my name
And you know wherever I am
I'll come running, to see you again
Winter, spring, summer or fall
All you've got to do is call
And I'll be there,
You've got a friend
If the sky above you
Should turn dark and full of clouds
And that old north wind should begin to blow
Keep your head together
And call my name out loud now
Soon you'll hear me knocking at your door

These days we need Jesus as our friend more than anything. Knowing we are not alone and that God is in the midst of our struggle and anxiousness is reassuring.  It is comforting when we feel afraid or alone.

Peace I leave with you;
my peace I give you.
I do not give to you as the world gives.
Do not let your hearts be troubled
and do not be afraid.

– John 14:27

Listen to your favorite music – music can always make us feel better! Maybe there is a song you love that too can be thought of as Jesus encouraging and uplifting you! You’ve Got a Friend!

– Julie Hanson, Director of Children's Ministry

PRAYER:

Dear God,
Thank you for being near when we need a friend. Thank you for letting us lean on you in the midst of pain, struggle and feeling alone. You are our comfort, strength and source of hope! We are not afraid because you are with us. Help us to find peace in you! Amen