SAINT JOHN'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
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from the prayer journal of fr. jack tolley

1/23/2019

 
This is from my 2006 Prayer Journal.  I think you will enjoy it.
Blessings and love, Fr. Jack.

"Preparing the Heart."
"As far as the east is from the west,
so far has he removed our transgressions from us."
(Psalm 103:12) 

Confession does for the soul what preparing the land does for the field. Before the farmer sows the seed he works the acreage, removing rocks and pulling stumps. He knows seed grows better if the land is prepared.
Confession is the act of inviting God to walk the acreage of our hearts.
"There is a rock of greed over here Father, I can't budge it. And that tree of guilt near the fence? It's roots are long and deep. And may I show you some dry soil, too crusty for seed?"
God's seeds grow better if the soil of the heart is cleared.
And so the Father and the Son walk the field together, digging and pulling, preparing the heart for fruit.
Confession invites the Father to work the soil of the soul.
(Max Lucado's book of inspirational thoughts titled, "Grace.")

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Saint John's Episcopal Church 
760 First Ave.  Chula Vista, CA 91910
Office: (619)422-4141

Office Hours 
Monday-Thursday
9:00 am -3:00 pm

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  • Home
  • Welcome
    • Welcome to St. John's
    • Our Church Campus
    • Our History
    • Our Rector >
      • Rev. Roger Haenke
    • Clergy and Staff >
      • Clergy and Staff
      • In Memoriam
    • Our Organist/Choir Director
    • Vestry
    • Our Stained Glass
    • Photo Gallery
  • Worship
    • Worship Schedule
    • Lectionary Readings
    • Sunday Hospitality
    • Life Celebrations >
      • Baptism
      • Confirmation / Reception
      • Marriage
      • Funerals
      • Quinceañera
    • Previous Services
    • Previous Sermons
    • Prayer List
  • Our Centennial
  • Serve
    • Liturgical Ministries >
      • Our Ministries
    • Care Ministries >
      • Pastoral Visits
      • Prayer Quilt
    • Outreach Ministries
    • Men of St. John's
    • Women of St. John's
    • Daughters of the King
    • Veteran/Military Friendly Congregation
  • Grow
    • Morning Prayer and Bible Study
    • Prayer Journal and Reflections
    • Spiritual Gifts
    • Childrens Sunday School
    • SD Episcopal Cursillo
    • ECS - Head Start Program
  • Connect
    • Calendar and Events
    • E-Newsletter
    • Connect!
    • Small Parish Groups
    • Support Groups
  • Resources
    • Forms and Policies
    • Facility / Hall Rental
    • Columbarium
    • Annual Reports
    • Vestry Minutes
    • Treasurer's Report
  • Give