This week’s worship service at First Presbyterian Church in Sterling centered on finding strength, rest, and courage in God in the midst of life’s storms. The service opened with a warm welcome to the congregation and several community announcements, followed by a special Blessing of the Backpacks and Briefcases for students, teachers, school staff, and others beginning a new school year. Those receiving the blessing were reminded that they are never alone, are deeply loved, and are fully equipped for the journey ahead. The congregation also prayed for peace, for those experiencing grief and hardship, and for the needs of the wider community.

The sermon focused on Matthew 14:22-33, the story of Jesus walking on water and Peter stepping out of the boat. The message explored the exhaustion Jesus experienced after giving so much of himself to others and his need to withdraw, rest, pray, and reconnect with God. From there, the congregation was invited to consider the storms in their own lives and the importance of seeking God as the source of strength, courage, grace, compassion, peace, and life. Peter’s experience becomes a powerful reminder that even when fear causes us to lose sight of Jesus, Jesus never loses sight of us. The service concluded with prayers for the country, the natural world, those experiencing grief and hardship, and the community, along with music, birthday celebrations, and a final encouragement to live in faith and love.