Faith @ First - July 11, 2025
Driving to the church this week, I had my usual route planned—turns I’ve taken a hundred times before. But just a few miles out on Route 32, I was met with an unexpected bright orange “Road Closed – Detour” sign. I had to stop, re-route, and trust that the unfamiliar roads ahead would still get me to where I was going.
Isn’t that so much like life?
We map out our plans, our dreams, our goals—and then suddenly, we hit a detour. A job ends. A diagnosis comes. A relationship shifts. A path we thought was certain suddenly closes, and we’re left wondering where God is in it all.
This is where unexpected faith comes in. Faith not based on what we can see or control—but on the One who sees the whole journey.
Think of Joseph, whose dreams were delayed by betrayal. Ruth, whose faith led her to a new land and unexpected love. Or the disciples, called from fishing nets into world-changing ministry. Their lives didn’t follow a straight path—but God was present in every twist and turn.
Maybe you’re on a detour right now. If so, you’re not alone. And you're not off course—you're on a different route where God is still at work.
This Sunday, we’ll gather around this very theme: Unexpected Faith. We’d love for you to join us—either outdoors at 9:00 at Teter Farm, surrounded by God’s creation, or in the sanctuary at 10:30, surrounded by God’s people.
As you navigate whatever road you may be on I invite you to pray this prayer :
God of every road—
When the path shifts and the way is unclear,
give us courage to trust You.
Remind us that even detours can lead to grace.
Walk with those navigating the unknown today.
May they feel Your presence with every step.
Amen.
