A NOTE FROM PASTOR BOB
St. Pete First family,
As I sit here in a darkened room this evening without power, I am writing you this note recognizing how so many in our community and church family have been hit so hard by Hurricane Helene and now Hurricane Milton. Darkness reminds us of our ever present hope for light. It is out of darkness that light emerges to bring new things into our focus.
Just today as Patti and I had worked hard clearing debris from our yard and spending time checking on our neighbors, I was reminded how in the midst of chaos, something good always comes. I had taken a breather and was seated on our outside deck. In the background were the sounds of chainsaws and generators. To say the noise was overpowering would be an understatement. It’s funny how our loving God chooses to respond in these kinds of moments.
Less than 24 hours before, the outside world was filled with the sounds of the angry and blustering 100+ mile an hour winds of what has been described as the hurricane of the century here in Tampa Bay.
It was hours of raging winds to a few hours of chainsaws and generators and I was reminded that in the midst of the noise and chaos, God does hear us and sends us objects to remind us He is indeed near. Even though today was drowned out by the sounds so many of us were hearing in our neighborhoods, there was a solid hour where I heard nothing but the birds of creation. Chaos was brewing and then God’s created order sprang to life with sounds that soothed my soul. It was truly remarkable and I am thankful for the gift.
Know in the days ahead, Patti and I along with your whole St. Pete First UMC staff are praying for you. My hope is instead of hearing the chaos of the storm that came and went, you will hear the sounds of God’s voice through creation reminding you that you are His beloved.
I hope you will connect with us this week as I give a special message on Hope.
Peace and grace,
— Pastor Bob
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