By God’s Side: January 20, 2021

Weekly Inspirational Reflections from the Reverend Dr. John A. Dalles

January 20, 2021: Trust in the Lord

By now, the word is out. After two wonderful years of the joy of serving you as your interim senior minister and head of staff, I will be concluding my service among you on Sunday, February 14. The Session, at the recommendation of the Human Resources Committee and the Pastor Nominating Committee (PNC), has determined not to renew my contract, because the PNC’s candidate is mostly likely on the near horizon.

So, with this news, from today until then, we can anticipate twenty-five more days of shared ministry. That is about half as long as the season of Lent lasts; and in fact, the season of Lent will begin the same week as my departure.

In a short time, I will have more to say about that, in my last By God’s Side article. Nevertheless, for now, I would like to share just a few words about trust. Because, in this season and in every time and season, our faithful attitude is one of trust.

Today, I am reminded of the disciples, asleep in the boat, when Jesus came walking toward them on the water. The always-impetuous Peter said to the Lord that if it was really Him, bid him come to Him on the water. And, for a moment, Peter was able to do that, without sinking — until he looked down at the waves, instead of at Christ.

How we move through a day or a succession of days is either filled with power or filled with fear. It all depends on where we are looking. When you are uncertain, when you are intimidated, when the waters that stretch before you frighten you, look to Christ. Be confident in the Lord, every moment. As Proverbs tells us:

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.” — Proverbs 3:5–6

The Reverend Dr. John A. Dalles
Interim Senior Pastor, Shadyside Presbyterian Church

About Dr. Dalles

Read more about Dr. Dalles.

Watch a brief video introducing a series of conversations with Dr. Dalles.

About By God’s Side

Shadyside Presbyterian Church publishes By God’s Side, a weekly series of inspirational reflections from the Reverend Dr. John A. Dalles, to support you in your spiritual journey. These pastoral messages appear in the blog section of the church website each week. (Our weekly e-newsletter includes an excerpt to remind you to read along with us regularly; click here to subscribe to the e-newsletter if you do not already receive it.) We hope this regular feature will help you to draw closer to God’s side in your life of faith.

Read more reflections by Dr. Dalles from By God’s Side.