SPPC Today

News for Sunday, July 26, 2026

My trip with my brother last week to Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks in Utah once again left me in awe of the beauty and grandeur of God’s creation. The Scriptures remind us that the natural world actively declares God's glory. As the Psalmist proclaims, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands” (Psalm 19:1). Whether we are in the dramatic canyons of Utah or among the towering trees and wave washed shores of the Saanich Peninsula, we witness what Reformed theology calls general revelation. Creation is an invitation to worship, drawing our eyes from daily anxieties to the eternal Creator who delights in splendour and abundant life.

This perspective offers a profound foundation for our modern concept of recreation. In Scripture, rest is not a luxury but a holy command rooted in the rhythm of the Sabbath. True recreation is quite literally re-creation—a sacred time to restore our weary souls and realign our perspective, just as Jesus frequently withdrew to nature to pray and be renewed (Luke 5:16). As we enjoy these summer days, I encourage you to intentionally seek out God's handiwork. Allow this time of rest to re-create you for the faithful service to which we are called.

Worship this Sunday

Our worship service this Sunday begins at 10:00 a.m. You can participate in person or connect with our community online via the live stream. The link is available here.

The Scripture readings are:

• Psalm 125—Surrounded by God

• Philippians 4:1–7

This week our solo is There is a balm in Gilead, an African American Spiritual arranged by Harry T. Burleigh

Announcements

• We are gathering for Friendship Coffee on July 30 at 10 a.m. Come and join us for this wonderful time of fellowship and bring along a friend.

• Vancouver Island Presbytery Summer Camps 2026: These long weekend escapes are a camping ministry for people of all ages. The time and location of the final camp is Rathtrevor Provincial Park from July 30 to August 3. For inquiries concerning the camps, you can connect with the Camp VIP Registrar at jermareng@outlook.com

May the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all!