And I brought him to your disciples, but they could not cure him." (Matthew 17:16 NRSV Bible)
There were times in the disciples' lives when everything seemed to go wrong. People rejected their message. Some even tried to kill them. There were times when they did their very best and no one responded. Sometimes they were run out of town. Being a follower of Jesus required patience and endurance. It still does.

Faith in God is important when things get rough. I remember reading about an 86 year old woman who was flying for the first time in her life. She heard the following announcement over the plane's intercom: "This is your captain speaking. Our number four engine has just been shut off because of mechanical trouble.

However, there is nothing to worry about. We will continue our flight with three engines and will land in Chicago on schedule. Also, I have some really reassuring news for you. We have four bishops on board."

The 86 year old passenger, who had been listening apprehensively called the flight attendant. "Would you please tell the captain that I would rather have four engines than four bishops."

Where do we get the ability to keep going even when everything appears to be going wrong? From God and God alone. In times of need we receive help from beyond ourselves. Thus we persevere and live one day at a time.

Dear God, thank you for giving me the ability to fulfill what you have called me to do. Help me to be faithful to your call. In Jesus name, Amen.

Ron Newhouse

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