"I am the alpha and the omega," says the Lord God, "who is and who was and who is to come." (Rev 1:8 NRSV)

It is a beautiful morning here in Morganton, NC where I am visiting my friend, Brenda. I am sitting on the front deck, in the midst of a little patch of paradise, surrounded by God's beautiful mountains, a pair of cardinals at the bird feeder, a few other birds flitting about from tree to tree, and several butterflies fluttering on the gorgeous butterfly bush in the front yard.

With a cup of coffee in my hand, I am enjoying the serenity of my early rising, contemplating on the words I read in the "Inspirations of Daily Life" a perpetual desk calendar setting on the vanity in the guest bath. A beautiful message speaks to me each day. Today's message is, "Christ is security."

What a comforting message to receive in this ever changing chaotic world in which I live. Contemplating on these words I am taken back to our sanctuary at APLC.

I visualize the two beautiful stained glasses windows depicting the Alpha and the Omega hanging high on the wall behind the altar. At worship on Sunday's, after taking Holy Communion and thanking God for His grace in cleansing my soul at the meal, I have a moment or two to gaze at the Alpha and Omega and silently pray the scripture " I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end -------Who is, Who was and Who is to come." This is His promise! CHRIST IS MY SECURITY.

Gracious and loving Lord, thank you for the promise you have given me in this Scripture from Revelations 1:8. You are my security blanket remaining the same yesterday, today and forever!. Amen

NRSV Ps 102:25-27: Long ago you laid the foundation of the earth and the heavens as the work of your hands. They will perish, but you endure; they will all wear out like a garment. .You change them like clothing and they pass away; God you are the same and your years have no end.

Contributed by Joyce
Monday August 31 2015
Liturgical Year B: Week 40
Liturgical Color: Green
Sunday Gospel reading: Proper17
Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost