Warning: I’m going to run a well-known and beloved saying into the ground with overuse. With that in mind… In the movie “Forrest Gump,” the lead character, Forrest, repeats an expression his mother had told him about life and the many surprises it brings. In what is now an iconic expression, Forrest repeats: “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you are going to get.” Referencing the box of assorted chocolate flavors, you just don’t know for sure what flavor you get until it’s in your mouth. Some you may like, some you don’t, and some you just want to get rid of. Expect the unexpected. However, there is one great constant in the box and in life. Every piece is covered with chocolate.

So in the variety of life, God is the constant — covering all the events, always present, even when the times are bitter to taste. We are never alone and always loved and surrounded by the presence of God.

Jesus has opened up the way of reconciliation between human and God. You could say the box of chocolate has been opened, the wrapper is off, and Christ has invited us to come and eat.

When we grab a bite that just doesn’t taste good, we are not on our own. The Holy Spirit is always guiding us into the kingdom of Heaven on earth where we are always surrounded by the love and presence of God. Even when we can’t see, hear, or taste the goodness of our Lord.

Sometimes it’s hard to hear God in the noise of life, or taste the goodness of life with Christ. But we can trust in the love and presence of God as we go through the good and the bad, the highs and lows, and sometimes the confusing nature of walking with God in a world that is not always sweet.

Join us Sunday as we open up a box of chocolates and take a look at some decisions made by the Apostle Paul. Together we will ponder life, salvation, and God’s love. Join us in the sanctuary at 8:45 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. or on Facebook Live at 11:00 a.m.

May the Grace and Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you!

Pastor Rick