Daily Devotion Focusing on the Missions Supported by First Pres

Isaiah 32:16-18

Then justice will dwell in the wilderness, and righteousness abide in the fruitful field. The effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever. My people will abide in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places.

In the midst of our busy lives
We know you’re with us, O Lord

In the midst of laughter and fun, joys and celebrations
We know you’re with us, O Lord

In the times of sadness and grief
We know you’re with us, O Lord

When we are at home, at worship, at work, at school, at camp, among family and friends
We know you’re with us, O Lord. Thanks be to God!

Cedarkirk is our year-round camp and conference center, owned by the Presbyteries of Tampa Bay and Peace River. It is located on the Alafia River within 170 acres of woodlands, wetlands, and uplands. Cedarkirk is dedicated to providing a place for individuals and groups to have the opportunity for spiritual renewal and growth in a natural environment.

Its mission statement is to be a place apart to build up the body of Christ. To that end, Cedarkirk strives to create a place free of distractions, where conversation around the dinner table, canoe trips on the river, and walks in the woods revive and feed your spirit. Their facilities are used for retreats, meetings, conferences, leadership training, camping, outdoor experiences, and more. They serve a variety of church related groups, family reunions, public and private schools, community service agencies, and non-profit organizations. At Cedarkirk, in a place and time apart from busy lives, people find a variety of ways to recharge and grow in God’s love.

For nearly 50 years, our church has enjoyed a rich connection to this unique ministry. We have sent summer staff, campers, attended retreats as children, youth, and adults, and held choir and congregation-wide family retreats. In particular, the congregational retreats have always been a special time for our family of faith to gather together in fellowship, sabbath, and worship in the beauty of God’s creation.

You can learn more about Cedarkirk by joining us for the next family retreat. You can also help this ministry by giving a financial gift for camper scholarships or their new capital campaign.

Prayer

Holy God, we thank You for sacred spaces like Cedarkirk. We praise You for places where lives are transformed and where people can grow closer to You. In a busy world, we lift up this ministry at Cedarkirk that allows Your people to slow down and focus on their relationship with You and one another. Amen.

For more information, visit www.cedarkirk.org.