February Newsletter, 2025
“What, me worry?” is a slogan associated with the fictional character Alfred E. Neuman, the mascot of American humor magazine Mad. The character’s distinctive features include a gap-toothed smile, freckles, red hair, and protruding ears. He first appeared in advertisements for painless dentistry and has been one of the most recognized cartoon faces in the world since 1956. Although the phrase means, “I’m not worried” it appears to be a contradiction to a world where worry is epidemic.
Will Rogers, actor and humorous social commentator said, “I know worrying works because none of the stuff I worried about ever happened.”
I don’t think that Alfred and Will ever met, but they shared a common understanding that worry is pointless. So why do we do it? Perhaps it’s because we question who is in control of our lives and especially our tomorrows.
There is no doubt that as we travel down the path of life we experience difficult things. Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 NIV) He preceded that sentence with, “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace.”
When I was a young pastor I came across this phrase…
“When in a fix…Philippians 4:6”
I can’t say whether it is original or not and if I knew the source I would certainly give credit, but nonetheless, it’s a good one! Trust me, I’ve been in plenty of “fixes” in my seven decades of life and it works. It is the antidote for worry.
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication,
with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;
and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding,
will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
PRAYER STICKERS AVAILABLE
As a prayer aid we have PRAYER STICKERS. Since we introduced these last month supporters of the ministry have responded and now they’re appearing everywhere, like the tail-gate on this Texas truck! The PRAYER STICKER is not only a reminder to pray for Rick McPherson RESTORATION and the ministry; it is also a conversation starter that will help you tell the RESTORATION story of Jesus and what a difference He has made in your life since He made you new. (Rev. 21:5)
If you would like a sticker or two or three, please use the reply envelope or the website: pacificnwoutreach.org and indicate what stickers you want. Use them anywhere; laptop, water bottle, bumper, mirror or fridge. Be creative!
You can even send me a picture. Have fun! If you can chip in with a donation to help defray the costs, that would be great.
*****
