The Greatest Mission Trip Ever Taken

“Everyone should go on at least one mission trip in their lifetime!” I have often heard that statement made. I do not know much that has a more rapid and profound spiritual impact than leaving one’s comfort zone and going to an unfamiliar land on mission. It will change lives…primarily yours. God dealt with me on the shores of Mombasa, Kenya in 1995 in ways that changed me to this day. Since then I have been blessed to lead & participate in mission trips to five of the seven continents over the years. When God leads me to Australia and Antarctica I will have a complete set (maybe I will get a set of steak knives). I already know the language of Australia, “Mate” but I may need to go to Antarctica first. If Al Gore is right it may be underwater soon.

Mission trips involve leaving familiar surroundings, people, customs and comfort to spend time and spread the love of God to others. As we enjoy the familiar surroundings, people, customs and comfort of our usual Christmas season remembering ‘The Greatest Story Ever Told’ it is fitting to remember ‘The Greatest Mission Trip Ever Taken’. Jesus left the familiar surroundings and comfort of Heaven to come here to change our lives for eternity.

I have gone through some long and uncomfortable travel. I have ‘enjoyed’ accommodations that are not quite ‘Four Star’ sleeping in different ‘beds’ (that is what they called them). I have had the ‘exhilaration’ of automobiles in traffic & driving styles that I never imagined, from racing down unpaved roads in vans with steering wheels on the wrong side to sitting on the back of scooters in the busy streets and rice patties of Cambodia. I have dined on crocodile, python, zebra, antelope and other cuisine that was unknown or cannot be listed (tasted like chicken).

Nothing compares with the mission trip taken by Jesus that began with the first Christmas. He left the comforts of Heaven to journey here ‘on mission’. I find it hard to mumble about sleeping arrangements I have experienced when the first bed of Jesus was an animal feeding trough. In spite of being out of my ‘comfort zone’ I was usually made welcome as people in those distant lands usually welcomed and treated me like family. It would be difficult enough to be rejected by strangers in a foreign land but can you imagine the sadness revealed in the first chapter of John’s Gospel as it tells us Jesus “was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.”

In spite of that sorrow and hardships we cannot imagine, He remained faithful on His mission trip. Although He was the creator and ultimate King, He humbled Himself by “taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2) He knew His mission trip held our eternal salvation in the balance so He gave His all. As we pause to reflect on life this Christmas let us follow our ‘mission’ and focus “our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” (Hebrews 12).

By taking the greatest mission trip ever taken, He left the greatest home ever known, suffered the greatest shame and punishment ever experienced He demonstrated the greatest love for us ever known. His mission trip, suffering, shame and ultimate punishment for our sin gives the opportunity to be to all who “receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.” (John 1). The greatest story ever told is about the greatest mission trip ever taken to present you with the greatest gift ever offered. Receive, open, let His gift change you then share His gift as you go on mission in the days ahead.

Have an Intelligent and Smart Christmas

I have been driving a car for 43 years. This is the first time I had to read the manual to learn how to use my key. It’s called an ‘Intelligent key’. Actually it is not a key at but resembles a key remote (reminds me of the one I had when I lost my last set of car keys. Now, I don’t feel so dumb losing those keys and remote. They were the ones not ‘intelligent’). Anyway, once I put the remote, excuse me… once I put the ‘intelligent key’ in my pocket the car senses when we are close enough to unlock. When inside the car I still do not have to remove the ‘intelligent key from my pocket. The car senses it is in the car, I push a button and the car starts. While I am driving the car figures gas mileage, the average speed and how much further I can go on this tank of gas, tells me the outside temperature and even senses when a small child is in the front seat who would be endangered by the passenger air bag so it disables that air bag until the child gets out of that seat. I quit reading the manual after learning those things. I have had enough of being intimidated by my car’s superior intelligence that seems to threaten my own.

My car is not the only clever device in my life. My daughters call me on their ‘smart’ phones. I have yet to go that route. I don’t want a phone so arrogant that it even brags on being smart with its name. Although, I have had some 23 years of formal education (no, that does not mean I wore a tux to class.) I don’t go around crowing or calling myself ‘smart’ or ‘intelligent’! (Perhaps those who spend time around me and know I still have not found my keys and remote to my old car, as well as a growing list of other things that humble me, understand why I don’t go around claiming to be ‘smart’ or ‘intelligent’ like some cocky phones & keys.)

We have become accustomed to ‘smart’ or ‘intelligent’ devices that can help us in our daily life. They answer the phone for us, watch favorite TV programs when we are not home (and even skip over the commercials we would not want to watch). Nevertheless, there is a point I want to make as I continue to marvel at all the devices that that have come into our lives that seem to be so ‘smart’ or ‘intelligent’. Since we can create such ‘smart’ or ‘intelligent’ devices to aid our lives why can’t we be smart or intelligent enough to realize that a holiday that was set to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ should be known as Christmas?

Although Jesus was probably born closer to September on our calendar, historically December 25 has been set aside as a holiday to acknowledge and celebrate his birth. This is not unlike the way we set aside a day in February to acknowledge and celebrate the birthdays of President Washington and Lincoln, neither were born on Presidents’ Day but the purpose of the day is to remember both. It would not be ‘smart’ or ‘intelligent’ to ignore Lincoln or Washington on that particular day. The original purpose of the day is to recognize both men…Duh! Long before this commonly accepted practice, as well as other similar holiday celebrations, the precedent of Christmas to remember the birth of Jesus was historically set. So, how ‘smart’ or ‘intelligent’ can it be to assign or promote some nebulous “Holiday Greeting” to seek to avoid the real meaning and purpose of Christmas? It is stupid to do otherwise. Enough already!

Therefore, if my car keys can be ‘intelligent’ and our phones can be ‘smart’ why can’t we be bright enough to just be done with all the foolishness that seeks to avoid Jesus, especially at Christmas and have a Merry Christmas? How dumb can we be? Now, if I could just find my glasses I could address some Christmas cards to share Christ like love and greetings. Oh well, I guess I will have to do the ‘smart’ or ‘intelligent’ thing and honor the birth of Jesus by living a life that brings “peace on earth and good will to men”!
Merry Christmas!

Gonna be a good day!

I am at the place in life where some parts wake up quicker than others every morning. Years of “hey let me try this” and attempts at sports I was not deemed to play have taken a toll. However, I still wake each morning with exercise. If I wake on my face I do a push-up. If I wake on my back I do a sit-up. It is easy to wake and find reasons to complain as the body responds slower. It is easy to find reasons to complain as the TV is turned on and the morning news is gloomy. However, it is easier to find reasons to rejoice when one reads and listens to words from the one who created me.

He tells me to “Rejoice always”. I Thessalonians 5:16 is the 2nd shortest verse in the Bible (‘Jesus wept’ is the shortest, found in John 11:35). The commandment to ‘rejoice always’ (it is not a suggestion…’give a shot to rejoicing always’) is not only short but it is effective in changing your entire outlook. It is followed by a second verse that helps me know how to rejoice, “Pray always”. When I find it hard to rejoice I am reminded that I can take all my cares and concerns to a higher authority who has power and wisdom well beyond me to take care of all things in perfect order according to His power and wisdom. Philippians 4:6-7 tell me, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God and the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” In other words, don’t worry about anything but pray about everything and you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will then protect our hearts and minds as we live in Christ Jesus.

Without a deliberate decision to rejoice or celebrate constantly one can find reason to despair in almost every direction in this sin scarred world. However when one follows God’s command one develops a new perception. I have discovered the following truth, 'When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change'. One can find a reason to delight as the third verse of the important trilogy in I Thessalonians 5, verse 18, guides us to be thankful in all things for this is God’s will in Christ Jesus.

It is truly impossible to be thankful ‘for’ everything in life however, it is possible, helpful and commanded by our loving Father to give thanks ‘in’ the midst of all things. In everything we can find a reason to look up and be thankful. I am thankful that my aching body is able to get up each morning. I am thankful for the breath of life that starts my waking hours. I am thankful for the fun and life I enjoyed (which is better than I deserved) and now can look forward to exulting (“Rejoice always”) in the day ahead because no matter what faces me I am not alone. I can share it with the creator and ruler of the universe (“Pray without ceasing”). When I commit my life and day to Him I know that whatever happens is in Hands and I can be glad (“in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.”)

Gonna be a good day!

If You Have To Swallow A Frog...

I have a poster in my office with a picture of a large ugly frog and the following caption, “If you have to swallow a frog, don’t look at it. If you have to swallow a bunch of frogs, take the biggest one first.” Looking an ugly frog in the face with the knowledge that you have to swallow that sucker does not make the unpleasant task easier. Hopefully none of us will have to take that phrase literally but we know what it is to have unpleasant tasks staring us in the face. Putting things off rarely helps when dealing with an unpleasant task.

It was my day off. I wanted to spend the day doing something enjoyable. I already had experienced a long week and knew a heavy work weekend was waiting. However, the leak under the sink (due to a leaking garbage disposal) needed to be remedied. I prepared to ‘swallow the frog’ of replacing the disposal by getting everything ready ahead of time. They did not teach plumbing in seminary but I knew I could handle the task…after all I am a man as well as a Doctor! :-)

I woke ready to begin the task by doing something that humbled me…reading instructions (after all I am a man. We shouldn’t have to read instructions or ask directions!). In a few minutes I was finished with no leaks, cuts or bruises. Now I had the rest of the day to enjoy myself and it was only 7:30 AM. Putting off unpleasant tasks is rarely helpful. “If you have to swallow a frog, don’t look at it. If you have to swallow a bunch of frogs, take the biggest one first.”

Psychologists call this delayed gratification. It is a system of doing the less pleasing things first to have something pleasant waiting ahead. For example, if you enjoy pie but the crust is not as enjoyable as the point of the slice where most of the flavor lies, delay your gratification and save the most flavorful bite for last. People who live following a system of delayed gratification are usually happier and see more hopeful results ahead. They get the least favorable work over first and look forward to enjoying more pleasant tasks ahead. Putting unpleasant tasks off is rarely helpful.

Putting unpleasant tasks off is also rarely helpful when the unpleasant task involves getting something corrected in a relationship. Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:22-25 to settle matters quickly when there is a problem in a relationship. The unresolved problem in the relationship will usually get worse if we put off or delay resolution and reconciliation. It also negatively affects our relationship with God as we cannot connect with Him properly until things are resolved with our brother or sister. He tells us to go and be reconciled with them then come back to Him.

Are there unpleasant tasks staring you in the face? Are there unresolved relationships that need to be resolved? If you need to forgive someone, don’t put it off or wait, go ahead. You will enjoy putting it behind you and enjoy the gratification you have been delaying. If you need to ask forgiveness of another and apologize don’t put it off. “If you have to swallow a frog, don’t look at it. If you have to swallow a bunch of frogs, take the biggest one first.”

Eat More Ice Cream & Less Beans

Sunday evening I shared God’s wisdom from the book of Ecclesiastes. This ancient book is as contemporary as today’s newspaper, in fact it is more current as it is scripture that is alive and applies to each of us in our daily life. The writer of Ecclesiastes shared his reflection from his experiences in his life that would seem ‘rich’ to most but actually was empty without God. Whether we realize it or not or choose to admit it, all of us are in a daily pursuit of fulfillment, purpose and joy in our lives. We, like the author or Ecclesiastes, seek this fulfillment in many ways. Sadly enough, many come to the end of life with regrets as the pursuits did not give us the life we thought they would. Others overlook and miss the daily joy of life as they have a desire for other things, as Jesus described with the seed sown among thorns in his parable of the soils.

Rabbi Harold Kushner wrote “When All You Ever Wanted Isn’t Enough” based on Ecclesiastes search for a life that matters. I loved one sage piece of advice he shared from an unlikely source when he wrote, “I remember reading an interview once with an 85 year old woman from the hill country of Kentucky, who was asked to look back over her life and reflect on what she had learned. With that touch of wistfulness that inevitably accompanies any statement beginning ‘If I had it to do over…,’ she said, ‘If I had my life to live over, I would dare to make more mistakes next time. I would relax. I would be sillier, I would take fewer things seriously…I would eat more ice cream and less beans. I would perhaps have more actual troubles but fewer imaginary ones. You see, I one of those persons who never went anyplace without a thermometer, a hot water bottle, a raincoat, and a parachute. If I had it to do again, I’d travel lighter.’”

Jesus says it this way in Matthew 11:28-30, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." The writer of Ecclesiastes searched for meaning in life and became obsessed with death. He saw the grave as the great equalizer awaiting all. He never knew anyone who came back from the grave, therefore much of life seemed to be meaningless and a great burden from his perspecitve. The 85 year old from Kentucky looked back and thought of a more enjoyable way she could have traveled along life's journey.

Jesus tells us to learn from him. He has experienced life, death and came back to share the way to find meaning in this pressure packed life that often overburdens us. When we come to him and learn from him taking his mission as our undertaking we find rest for our souls. As we look for purpose and meaning in our journey let us learn to lighten the load by trusting all completely to Jesus. So when you feel as if the pressures of life are so heavy to the point that it seems as if you are under a personal attack take a breath and look to Jesus who tells us in John 10:10 that there is one who comes to rob and deprive us of life but “My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.”

Change is good...you go first!

Recently I ran across an old devotional poem I had saved from ‘Bless This Mess and Other Prayers” by Jo Carr and Imogene Sorley. I am beginning to preach a new series dealing with the real change (transformation) of a life that is truly in Christ as stated in II Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!”. Strangely those who profess to follow the greatest change agent in history (Jesus) often seem to be the ones who struggle most with change. I thought this old devotional prayer was worth sharing.

But Lord,I’ve always bought brown sugar in square boxes with brown letters on the box.

I saw the plastic bags of sugar in the grocery store yesterday. I could tell by looking that this was a better way. The strong air-tight bags would keep the sugar soft and usable.

But I’ve always brought brown sugar in boxes…but I reached for the box. Now, back at home, I wonder why.

Lord, why are we…why am I…so reluctant to change old ways? Some old ways are valid, but some need changing. And I cling to square boxes with unthinking tenacity, just because I’ve always bought square boxes.

That is not reason enough. Times have changed – and are changing so fast it makes my head swim. I am obligated to face my days intentionally! The container that brown sugar comes in is no great thing. But there are other, weightier matters that require rethinking – and perhaps revising. If I am going to live significantly, I must make my big decisions purposefully, intentionally, comprehensively.

“New occasions teach new duties; time makes ancient good uncouth. They must upward still, and onward, who would keep abreast of Truth.”

Forgive my square boxes.

Amen.

Counting Blessings

As I was driving to work today I realized how blessed I am. There is an old hymn I grew up singing in church called, “Count Your Blessings”. It is not only a classic hymn but good psychology. The more one counts their blessings and names them “one by one” the better one feels. I began realizing my blessings as I thought of my oldest daughter and her husband who are leaving on a special trip to Paris today. He gave it to her as a birthday present. They, like most young couples, have to watch their budget but he told me, “She is so good to me and never asks for anything.” I am blessed to have a great daughter and son-in-law. I thought of my other daughter, who recently earned her Master’s degree and is a counselor for children in Texas. She is also excited about being able to buy her first new car. I am excited that I don’t have to make the payments! Then I thought of my wife who is more of a loving companion to me today than when we started this adventure together 30 years ago. Not only am I blessed with my family, I began to realize and count the blessings I have just living in this country and being able to drive to my job. The drive to work became a joy rather than a frustrating navigation through traffic.

Last Sunday I shared a teaching from Psalms. The first Psalm speaks of the blessings for one who meditates day and night and delights his heart in following the ways of God. The Psalm says, “Whatever he does prospers.” This does not refer to a ‘Prosperity Gospel’ that is not in the Bible but often heard on from some pulpits, radio & TV as a ploy to gain ‘financial prosperity’ (usually for the one preaching that false gospel). The prosperity the Bible DOES speak of in Psalm 1 and other places is prosperity of life’s spiritual blessings, the blessings of living a life seeking to be righteous and loving as God commands, for his glory as well as our own blessings.

My prosperity is not found in material wealth (I balanced my check book last night and found reason to rejoice. Small numbers are easy for me.) or wonderful health. Although I am able to go at a good pace, for a man my age (I hate it when my doctor uses that phrase!) I have many health concerns that could cause me to become depressed if I sat down and listed them, as many choose to do (You know the people who think the greeting, “How are you?” is an open invitation to list all their problems as they seem to enjoy doing). However, I have breath and life today! That is a blessing from God. There are many who did not get out of bed today and have not lived as long as me. Also, there are several reasons I should have been in the grave years ago.

The point is this; we can all find reasons to complain. When we do we create a downward spiral as we become more negative and find even more reasons to complain. However, the best way to live is to find the reasons to rejoice daily in the good things. As we look and count our blessings we transform our mood and see even more blessings creating an upward spiral that begins to make the whole situation better. Paul, the Apostle, was falsely imprisoned when he wrote Philippians where he encourages those outside of his prison cell to, “rejoice”. He also writes that he learned the “secret of being content in any and every situation”. He knows Jesus is there with him, even in prison. As we daily walk with and come to know Jesus more and more we find, as Paul wrote, “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” Jesus transformed every funeral he encountered into a time of resurrection, especially his own. He has the resources to resurrect and transform any situation in life. Knowing, following and sharing the love of Christ can turn any situation around as we discover with him and in him we have the resources and can do whatever we need to do “through him who gives me strength.”

God IS Great!

On September 11, 2001 Islamic extremists slammed hijacked jets into the Pentagon and World Trade Center Towers as they shouted the words, "Allahu Akbar”, (God is Great). This cry preceded the most horrible terrorist attack on our land and the mass murder of over 3000 people. The FBI released a handwritten hijackers' letter found in three separate copies—at Dulles, at the Pennsylvania crash site, and in Mohamed Atta's suitcase. It included a checklist of final reminders for the 9/11 hijackers. An excerpt reads: "When the confrontation begins, strike like champions who do not want to go back to this world. Shout, 'Allahu Akbar,' because this strikes fear in the hearts of the non-believers." This phrase is recited by Muslims in many different situations. For example, when they are very happy, to express approval, to praise a speaker, as a battle cry, and during times of extreme stress. In the Islamic world, instead of applause, often someone will shout ‘takbir’ and the crowd will respond "Allahu Akbar" in chorus. However, these Islamic extremists used the phrase as a terrorist battle cry. This set them apart from anything Godly or great. Murdering over 3000 people is not Godly or great.

As we acknowledge the memory of those who were murdered by these terrorists nine years ago I am reminded that there is still much confusion and anger in our nation. People condem one another and divide over religious differences. Confusion, violence and division over religious experiences have been with us since Eden. The first murder recorded on earth was over a difference in worship when Cain killed his brother Able. The battle between and within religions and denominations to determine who speaks for God has a long history.

“God told me...” is a phrase that is frequently heard to verify something. “I feel led...” or “I have been praying and I have a peace about...” are also popular phrases to validate a word or action. All too often these phrases mean, “This is how I want to obtain MY mandate”. I like to tease and ask “What did His voice sound like when He told you? Did He have an English accent or deep voice?” or “Is ‘felling led’ similar to the sensation you feel when you bite into a peppermint patty?” Call me a skeptic but when anyone claims a direct or exclusive word from God as if they just got off the phone with Him, I worry. I am also not always impressed when “having peace” about doing something is declared. Even a two-year old has peace when they get their own way. The truth and peace of God is affirmed by scripture, prayer, circumstances and the church, not simply the whim or feeling of a single individual or group.

God does speak and lead. However, I am cautious when ‘His leadership’ is used for a personal agenda, idea or desire. God’s leading should never be used lightly or to promote a political or personal agenda, idea or desire. Too many have been turned away from Jesus due to the poor witness of a church or a person who claimed or misused the name of Christ but did not display His love or Spirit in their daily life.

So, how does one know what God is saying or to whom God is speaking or leading? Who does speak for God? You see, God still speaks quite nicely and clearly for Himself through His Word, the Bible. Henry Blackaby said it well in his book,'Experiencing God'; “God speaks by the Holy Spirit through the Bible, prayer, circumstances, and the church to reveal Himself, His purposes, and His ways.” So it is our task to accurately interpret and follow God’s word, as we pray, read, study and obey what He has already said rather than claim or look for a new word or cause harm to those who have not yet found Him or disagree with us. Don’t be fooled. God is indeed great and He speaks quite well for Himself. His voice is most clearly heard through love. As we live our daily life and as we remember those murdered on September 11 let us respond and react in a way that reflects the ‘way, truth & life’.

CFIT

“Hey - what's happening here?” These were the last words of Captain Robert Loft, on December 29, 1972, before crashing his Eastern Air Lines flight 401into the Florida everglades. He became so engrossed in a matter that seemed important at the time that he involved his whole crew in the distraction while no one noticed that they forgot the most important thing. No one was flying the plane! A new aviation term was created to account for such errors. Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT) describes an accident in which an airworthy aircraft, under pilot control, is unintentionally flown into the ground, a mountain, water, or an obstacle. Pilots with any level of experience, even highly experienced professionals, may commit CFIT. Pilot fatigue, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation may play a role when the pilots get distracted and forget the main thing...like keeping the plane from crashing into the terrain (Duh!). CFIT may also apply to other events in life.

Recently I attended a meeting of some 500 pastors in my state to discuss the future of our convention. The subject of declining churches and denominations and ways to address this matter was to be the focus. Many reasons were shared to explain such things as 70% dropout rate when churched kids get to college age and can make their own decisions about going to church as well as the fact that real Spiritual growth is seen in only 11% of today’s churches. During the meeting I was reminded of CFIT and thought of Captain Loft’s final words, “Hey - what's happening here?” I wondered could it be possible that we have become so involved, distracted and disoriented in ‘religious activity’ rather than developing our relationship with God that we have become distracted like the pilots who forget to notice their primary task?

Jesus only mentioned the word ‘church’ twice; once when he established the church as his assembly of those who know him for who He really is, in Matthew 16, then later in Matthew 18 when he talked about our relationships with each other. We often get so caught up in religion and the bureaucracy of our organizational systems that we frequently have a ‘loss of situational awareness and disorientation’ and forget that the primary purpose of the whole thing is love, not our own expectations or following certain religious rituals. People don’t drop out when they are transformed by the greatest love story of all time. Constantly following and reflecting the love of Jesus will keep us from crashing into the terrain.

I fear that our ‘loss of situational awareness and disorientation’ can be a major factor other areas of life. This concept of CFIT applies not only to my profession. Government, whether state, local or national can forget their real purpose and ‘crash into the terrain’. Our government exists best as an entity “of the people, by the people, for the people”. When we forget and get away from our founding principles we can ‘crash’ as other nations have seen in history. Hopefully we are not already getting too close to the ground to pull up.

Marriages ‘crash into the terrain’ all too often when couples become ‘distracted, disoriented and have a loss of situational awareness’. The primary purpose for marriage is companionship (See Genesis 2:18). CFIT can happen in a marriage when couples become too caught up in other things and forget the main focus of the marriage is building their growing companionship. Couples must never lose sight of doing all they can to delight in doing things together growing closer as friends building a life-long companionship. Keeping Christ as the center and joy of each life and head of the marriage will not only keep each life soaring but will also keep the marriage from crashing.

Isaiah 40:31 speaks of keeping our focus on God and soaring to great heights with renewed strength an energy for the journey. Forgive the personal paraphrase, but I believe ‘those who focus and trust completely in the Lord will soar on wings like eagles and not crash into the terrain.’

Get Happy!

One of my favorite quotes says, "I want to get the most out of this life because I am going to be dead a long time." That is not saying that I am not looking forward to the next life, Heaven, which will be better beyond description than this life that has been marred by sin. For me that quote speaks of all the things and experiences I enjoy from this life that I want to maximize by making the most of each day I am here.

I usually try to have fun each day with most every experience. I know that every event in life is not always fun. As a pastor, I am involved with crisis, sickness, tragedy and death on a regular basis. I have also had my own personal dealings with life's difficulties, both personal loss and health issues. My next surgery will be my tenth. However, there are many who are half my age who have trouble keeping up with me, physically and emotionally. It comes from a deliberate attitude to focus on the joys that God has given each of us each day. The Scriptures teach me that I fall short of God's plan (Romans 3:23) and my remuneration is death (Romans 6:23). However, that same verse tells me that God gives me the gift of eternal life in a relationship with Jesus. So each day I wake up with breath and life is a gift, and by following Jesus I have eternity when this life is over. Why not be happy? Ecclesiastes 3:4 says, there is "a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance." In my heart I am a great dancer!

Years ago, I taught a Bible study using Minirth & Mier's book, "Happiness Is A Choice". Rick Foster & Greg Hicks have written an excellent book entitled, "How We Choose To Be Happy". However, long before those good books were published a guy named Paul wrote a book we call the book of Philippians where he wrote, "I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation." Remarkably, this sentence and the rest of this fascinating book was written from prison. Paul had not committed a crime, in fact, he was in prison on false charges and completely innocent. Yet he never complained but found reason to rejoice as he realized he was exactly where God wanted him and God was with him. He knew he could do whatever he needed to do and face whatever he needed to face as long as he knew Jesus who gave him strength.

As you go through the uncertainty of the day make a deliberate decision to make the most of each day and rejoice as often as you can. Make a deliberate decision to know Jesus on a personal basis, forgetting all the bad in the past and pressing on to all the good that is ahead, as did Paul (Philippians 3:10-14). Make a deliberate decision to rejoice always (see I Thessalonians 5:16). This is the only chance you get at this day. Why waste it not being happy?

What's Wrong With This Picture?

From time to time I read disturbing statistics concerning the church. Millions leave the church each year. 75-80% of the churches are not growing. Serving as a pastor in today's church creates so much stress that half of those who are serving as pastors considered leaving the ministry in the last few months. 50% of the ministers starting out will not last 5 years. 90% will NOT retire as a minister. Over 1,700 pastors quit each month. 90 percent feel they are inadequately trained to cope with ministry demands. As a professional minister of some 30 plus years and a believer of some 50 years I often wonder, “What is wrong here?” Not only do I have degrees in theology but I have a degree in marketing. To use marketing terminology, we have the best ‘product’ one can offer; eternal life, forgiveness of ALL sin, love of fellow-man and a personal relationship with the God of the universe. Why should we have such stress, conflict, anger and misery that drive people away?

Could it be that we are doing some things wrong? Ya think? The more I read the Bible the more I fail to recognize its influence and life changing truth in much of what we call church today. The Bible speaks of life changing peace that passes all understanding, love and grace for our brothers. There are and have long been many misunderstanding about church. Jesus only used the word twice (Matthew 16 & 18) in the New Testament. Once he spoke of the church when he founded it (16) and then he talked about the way we should relate to one another (18). The church He established is a gathering of transformed people who worship Christ and follow His mission. Transformation happens when God takes hold of a life. We are moved from darkness to light, orphan to adopted child, sinner to saint by the work of Christ. Every thought & action begins to change (II Corinthians 5:17). Values & attitudes soon follow. Our mission in life changes. This does not happen when one 'joins the church' as one does any other organization. The church Jesus established is a living body of transformed people who think, behave, relate, love, forgive & get along in a way the world cannot do nor understand.

Jesus did not establish religious institution, organization or denomination. He used the Greek word ECCLESIA in Matthew 16 when establishing His church. An Ecclesia was a political term, a call out assembly; an assembly called out for a purpose. We, followers of Jesus; His church are called out of our everyday lives to assemble for his purpose. His purpose is simple yet profound and life changing, to love God with all our heart, soul and mind and love our brother as we love ourselves. We are then called out to teach everything He commanded as we make disciples wherever we go. We are called out to be the living body of Christ on earth. As His church we are to be His loving hand, smile and word wherever we go.

We are to be more like a mission outpost being missionaries wherever we go rather than a religious institution that is likened to a permanent structure or an earthly organization. One of the best analogies I heard compared the church, a mission outpost, to a M.A.S.H. Unit rather than a sterile hospital, a permanent structure as a religious institution. The Mobile Army Surgical Hospital (M.A.S.H.) goes wherever hurting people are, spending time near the front lines, operating near the end of its resources to help those who can’t get help any other way. The permanent structure uses much of their recourses keeping the building ready to help those who are able to come in the doors. The mission outpost operates by faith, as the pastor equips workers to serve and release their Spiritual gifts so each one can do their part. The religious institution operates by tradition, rules, majority, constitutions, business models, Pastors & deacons serve as executive officers & directors. Actions are a priority. They are always busy. They want others to be busy, join and be ‘like us’. In a mission outpost relationships are the priority. One becomes a part of the family by having a relationship with Jesus as we become like Him. In His church we grow in relationship with Him and others by becoming real in our walk with Him as we are open and honest with others in accountable growing relationships. This church, His Church, is not failing. It just has not really been tried or practiced as much as we think.

Fenced Dogs Yapp Most

Someone asked me how should one respond to when others make negative comments and share or hold negative opinions about you. I guess they knew me well enough, as a pastor and a plain spoken person, that I must have had plenty of people who have had negative comments and negative opinions about me. First, we should not live our lives being concerned or directed by other opinions. There is only one that will judge me. As long as God is pleased with me I should be OK and not worry about what some other person says or thinks. As I love God with all my heart and I seek to share His love with my fellow man I will seek to treat all with the same love and respect. However, all will not respond in kind and will not hold the same opinion of me.

I once read that opinions are like arm pits, we all have more than one. Preachers are often like football coaches who get more praise than they deserve when the team does well and more blame than is theirs when things do not go as well as people think they should. All of us who do anything will receive comments and criticism from others. One should keep an objective ear to comments but never let the negative comments discourage you or keep you from doing your best.

I learned an important lesson from my pets several years ago. I owned Cocker Spaniels that I kept in our fenced back yard. Early one morning I heard them barking loudly and aggressively. I went to the back door to investigate. I saw a large dog walking leisurely through the unfenced area of my back yard. My dogs, imprisoned by the fence, were yapping loudly at the free dog as he enjoyed his walk. He walked their way and looked, which drove them wilder, and casually walked away never barking once.

I walked away smiling at the lesson God gave me. Those who often ‘bark’ loudest are those who are least free. I try to live my life as the one who barks least and enjoys the free walk God gives through His grace. So, next time you hear the ‘yapping’ of those negative voices, think of my dog story. Walk over, sniff at them in their fence then turn and walk away. You need not respond to all the yapping. The negative voices of those yapping in their fences will grow more faint and distant as you walk away enjoying your freedom.

Graduation Day

I just returned from my 40th High School class reunion. It was my first. Life’s events kept me away for the previous 39. It was wonderful to see friends I had not seen in such a long time. We caught up on old times & swapped memories, as we could at our age. Before the reunion the planning committee sought to gather information to form a booklet to help class members catch up on one another. One section of the information sheet asked for ‘Memories’. Still being somewhat mischievous and realizing that others laugh at me so I might as well get a head start, I wrote my memories as follows; “I remember being 6’ 4”, being elected Most Handsome, Wittiest, Most Likely to Succeed, Captain of the Football & Basketball team, Valedictorian and Mr. Lee High. However, I have taken a lot of prescription medication and consumed a number of Diet Dr. Peppers with aspartame over the years so I may have forgotten a thing or two. Funny, I looked back in the yearbook and they only listed me as Sports Editor.”

Obviously those memories are a bit exaggerated but I thought it would give a chuckle to those who bothered reading the book after the reunion. Little did I know the MC began the program & and my introduction, as the class member who would pronounce a blessing or Invocation on the evening, using my ‘memories’. She then introduced the 6’4” ‘Pastor Billy Drees’ to pronounce the Invocation for the evening. I walked up to the microphone, barely taller than the MC and former head Cheerleader to an immediate call from the crowd to “Stand Up!” It is great to be humbled before all your friends. I loved it!

As I turned to the more serious Invocation I referred to Ecclesiastes 11:9 as the Scriptures tell us to be happy in the days of our youth and relish those days as we follow the ways of our heart. The night was to be a night of being happy, remembering and relishing those days. I also touched on the importance of relationships. Our relationship with Jesus determines our eternal destiny. I received several positive comments on my remarks. I was shyer in High School. Many would be surprised that I could stand and speak in front of a few, especially Mrs. Brewer, my former speech teacher. I also received much good natured ribbing about being 6’4”. On my best day, I am 5’7”. Several girls my height, or taller, had photos taken as they stooped to make me look tall. The best moment was Larry Swartz, one of the real athletes who is a legitimate 6’6”, walking over for a photo. I was a little taller than his belt. It was great!

It was a wonderful night as it was meant to be. I didn’t share the rest of the verse that evening as the evening was intended to be a totally fun evening. Ecclesiastes also tells us there is a time for everything. That evening when the band got too loud for me to visit Cathy and I danced. A friend said, “Is a Baptist preacher going to dance?” I reminded him of Ecclesiastes 3:4 (“...a time to dance.”). Now it’s time to complete the invocation & verse 9 as it tells us to enjoy our youth following the desires of our heart, “But know also that not just anything goes; You have to answer to God for every last bit of it.”

In school there comes a day of accounting for action, graduation. If one does not do the proper work and does not make the grade one does not graduate. I almost learned those lessons the hard way. I must confess a love to have fun & joke than a love to study in those days. I finished near the bottom of the class of 70. In college those finishing with lower grades than me in 1974 graduated in 1975. God got my attention when He called me to seminary. I was a much better student gaining my Master’s and Doctorate degrees.

Here is the point. In all pursuits, there will come a day of accounting, graduation, judgment. Life is no different. As I visited my hometown and had fun with friends of my past I also visited a future site, my cemetery plot. That may sound morbid but I live each day reminding myself that I am headed toward a final graduation in this life where I will have to answer for how I have lived. Romans 8:1 tells me there is “now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus! A life lived by faith in Christ is proper preparation for that graduation. He is the only way to prepare for the final exam! That is a fact not a shaky memory. Trust me, I AM a doctor and that is on my diploma not just in my memory.

Always on Mission

I love mission trips. I often tell people the best definition I have found defining a Christian missionary is, “Anyone who is born again who goes anywhere to tell anyone about Jesus.” Now, I must admit some prejudice for that definition since I wrote it but it simply reminds us that each born again follower of Jesus is a missionary every day & everywhere. Recently we took a team of mission volunteers to KY and soon we will take a team to Trinidad. I tell each mission team things I have shared and learned over the years as a life-long missionary.

I tell them to “Be Flexible”. One never knows what God has in store. We make our plans but Isaiah 55:8 reminds us that our thoughts and our ways are not the same as His. The trees that are more flexible survive the highest winds and most severe storms. The more flexible we are in life, the more we are able to be missionaries, servants and experience the joy that God has in store for us as this sin-scarred world blows unexpected storms our way. We must remember, as His missionaries, His plan is for us to follow His wind no matter where it may blow us as Jesus told us through his conversation with Nicodemus. “The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit." (John 3:8)

I also tell them, "The mission trip starts ‘right now’ now when we arrive at the site or our destination". We need to be ready to reflect the light at all times. On the way to Kentucky we made our first stop for lunch at Wendy’s (my teams go first class). As we were traveling and trying to make time we breezed in for a quick lunch but a group of outsiders from another state always attracts attention. My wife & I were last in the line and a local man sitting at table with a friend asked where we were from. I told him Columbia, SC. He responded saying, “I know where that is. My son got shot there.” Well, that opened the door for conversation but another sentence spoke volumes. He told us his son-in-law committed suicide that very morning. After that stunning declaration he said, “He was a good man and a deacon in the church. I hate that he won’t go to heaven now.” This let Cathy and me know he misunderstood Biblical salvation. At that moment our bus driver came to get me with a problem. As the leader I had to be called away. As a missionary Cathy got to explain that one’s faith in Christ not one’s actions whether good or bad determines one’s eternal destiny. When anyone places their faith in Christ and becomes born in the Spirit their eternal destiny is determined by what Jesus did on the cross. We planned to swing into a fast food restaurant for a quick lunch and get back on the road. God had a divine appointment for a missionary that had eternal results. In our life as a missionary every day we need to be open, attentive, ready, flexible and willing to be used when God gives us the daily opportunity to be missionaries.

Today I was completing a hospital visit and headed to my car when I noticed a lady who seemed confused as she was receiving more confusing instruction from an attendant to the Sumter Street parking garage. I was parked in that garage so I interrupted (my wife corrects me for interrupting but she was not with me and I thought it would be OK this time) and said, “Follow me!” I pulled my Clergy badge from my pocket to let her know I was safe and was not hitting on her. (I stuff my badge in my pocket after my visits so no one looks at me funny when I get lost…preachers should know their way around hospitals. But, I get lost in my own thoughts and miss turns when I drive or walk…kinda like now). Anyway, as we walked to the parking garage she told me about her elderly mother whom she was visiting. She had recently moved her mother here to be her caretaker and it was becoming stressful.

II Corinthians 1:3 tells us our God is the “Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4who comforts us in all our troubles; so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.” As we walked to her car I told her of our recent experience moving my dad from MS to become his caretakers and was able to comfort her in her trouble with the comfort I had received from God in my recent “troubles”. I thought I was “being flexible” to do a good deed to help a lady find her way out of the parking lot but I wound up being a missionary to a sister who was struggling to find her way through a more puzzling corridor.

As believers we are simply ‘Beggars showing other beggars where we found bread’. Be flexible. The mission trip starts as soon you leave the door each time you leave the house. You are on a mission trip. Jesus is your passport!

Lessons of a Life (not yet finished)

Fifty eight years ago I began a journey on this planet that has given me more adventure, experiences, love, joy, pain, heartache and grace than I could have imagined. Life’s lessons are learned through all those emotions, feelings and experiences. I don’t know how many more years (or moments) I will have left. I am one of the few who would like to know how much time I have (one week before I go I would go on a strict diet of Oreo’s, Cobbler and Ice Cream). Regardless of that last statement, I do think I have learned some valuable lessons in my 58 years. Come to think of it because of statements like that, I have learned some things as well.

Socrates at his trial for heresy said, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” While never accused of heresy of on the level of Socrates I am an obsessive thinker and I try to think and learn from everything. I hope I have picked up a thing or two in my day(s). I have seen people search far & wide for purpose & meaning in life. Many seek purpose or meaning in relationships, success, power. These pursuits usually lead to emptiness. Others become frustrated and escape in depression, drugs and other methods of avoidance. Oscar Wilde said, “In this world there are two tragedies. One is not getting everything one wants, the other is getting it.”

As a pastor I have been with people in enough difficult situations, end of life moments and preached enough funerals that I have learned that life is precious and fragile. Psalm 90:12 tells us our days are numbered. We don’t know the number so we need to live each day is if it may be the last. You never know which breath, word or deed may be the final one. The only way to make sure you leave this world and your loved ones with a good word, deed or smile is to try to have a good word, deed or smile every moment.

I have learned it’s important to keep close relationships with family and friends. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 tells us, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”

I will always remember the 1st funeral I preached, as a young seminary student in my 20’s. The funeral home called to have a ‘minister’ because the deceased man was virtually unknown. There were only 8 people present. The man in the casket looked to be in his 50’s. I did my best. Afterward the only one of the 8 attendees in a suit, the one who paid for the funeral, came to thank me and told me, “He was a cousin we rarely saw who lived a hard life and I didn’t want him buried alone.” How sad that his closest family, at his funeral, did not really know him. What a lonely life. I once saw a forgettable movie but remembered a scene where a somewhat sensitive hit-man contemplated life. One can learn from many avenues. He said the following, “Look, in my business you’re surrounded by loneliness and finality. Now I don’t care what your take is on an afterlife, when people die its scary and they go alone. Now the people that I send off that have experienced love, they’re a little less scared. I mean they’re still scared but there’s calmness to ’em. I think that comes from a knowledge that somebody somewhere loved ‘em and cared for ’em and will miss ‘em.” It is vital to keep and maintain close relationships with friends and family. It is important to know and love people and know you are loved.

I have also learned over the years that pain is a part of life. There is a human tendency to avoid pain by any avenue (pills, drinking, denial, isolation, etc.) Avoidance is also a great way to avoid pain. God often uses painful situations to transform and teach. Read Hebrews 2:10. What is my loving Father teaching here? I used to be embarrassed easily so I avoided the pain of embarrassment by avoiding situations with that potential. I missed a lot of fun in the mix. Now I add my red cheeks to the fun. My wife saw a cute guy with red cheeks and found them attractive and was drawn to me and it became a plus. Sometimes going through the pain brings positive results.

Finally, remember that all things matter. Live each moment as if someone is watching and everything counts. Because someone is watching it does matter, Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 tells us that all things matter, even the things that we think no one sees. God never misses a trick…even the ones we hope no one saw. In those cases, we confess, repent and allow the work Jesus performed on the cross to wipe the slate clean. It is all good! Make the most of each moment living it as if it could be your last, connecting to people as much as possible, living and learning life’s lessons from pain knowing that all things matter! Have a great one!

When Everything You Trusted Goes Wrong!

Do you remember where you were when you first realized the world was not a just and righteous place and life is not fair, when your realized your government lied to you, your theology may be wrong, those your trusted had betrayed you and all you had once believed in may not be true? For some it was standing in a hospital when the test results literally caused our knees to weaken. Others had that moment when an action, discovery, letter or confession caused you to discover your spouse is found not to be the person you always thought they were. Perhaps your priest or pastor is found in a discretion that is unexplainable or the government leader who seemed so honest is found in the midst of a scandal. These are a few general examples of events when life tumbles in and the things you seemed to trust are now turned upside down.

Peripeteia is the term that describes the turn of events in a Greek tragedy where the hero suddenly finds that everything he thought he knew was wrong. There comes a time in most lives when we are smacked in the face with the terrible reality when the things and people in which we once placed confidence now are gone and we know the lost feeling of ‘Peripeteia’. When that time comes to our life what do we do? How do we move forward? Where do you find trust and security when you have been betrayed and everything you trusted or believed seems wrong or confused?

This may be the time when the real adventure of your life begins. When the things once trusted fade away one can finally look past illusions, superficiality, hopes, dreams and find real truth. It may be harsh but knowing real but truth will give you freedom. Once you know real truth you will never be dissapointed, dissalusioned, misled, abandoned or misguided again. “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” If you think that quote sounds too good to come from me, actually it does. Jesus said it and John recorded it in his Gospel (chapter 8, verse 32).

In fact, not only is that statement truth but the author of that statement ‘IS’ truth! He is the only one in whom you will never be dissapointed, dissalusioned and he will never abandon you. People, governments, institutions (even religious institutions) will all fail because they are human & founded on human beliefs and run by humans. Try as we may, we have faults and are finite. Our best efforts fall short. When we choose role models, ideals, institutions to idolize we set ourselves up for failure and dissapointment. However, once we find that feeling of ‘Parapettio’ we are free to look beyond the superficiality of all we once trusted and find real truth, brutal as it may be at times.

Real brutal truth tells us that as much as we exersize and eat right, eventually our bodies are going to be food for maggots (how is that for a start at harsh reality?). Real brutal truth tells us the only way we can experience love is to continue to open our hearts to be broken. Real brutal truth tells us the only way we can overcome being hurt is to forgive and forget, as God has forgiven us. Real truth tells us that the best we can do is have faith in God who teaches us to love Him with a love that goes beyond understanding and love our neighbors, ALL OUR NEIGHBORS, as we love ourselves (Matthew 22:34-40). Real brutal truth comes when you realize you don't have to put on an act, pretext or seek to please anyone because it is only what God thinks of you that really matters. Real Brutal truth is being completely honest with God, knowing He is real, honest with you and you don't have to put on a front with Him. Real brutal truth is found in facing the mirror first thing in the morning and seeing what Jesus sees and realizing He honestly said, “That is a face I would die for!”

My name is Bill and I am an addict

I am an addict. Since it is just us and I can trust you to keep this between us, I am making this confession. I have struggled all my life with my addiction. I confess my addiction to be hopeless. I am addicted to sin. Now before you begin to look down on me, you might as well confess your own addiction with me. All of us are addicts to some particular avenue of sin. Romans 3:23 tells us that all of us have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. You see many have too long thought of sin as “taking a smoke, drink, swear or chew and hanging with guys and girls who do”. Sin is actually anything that causes us to fall short of the glory of God.

The word most often used for sin in the Scriptures is the Greek word, HAMARTIA, which means to ‘miss the mark’. It is the picture of an arrow headed for the bull’s eye but landing short of the intended target. Of all that exists in God’s handiwork, we are the only entity that was created in the image and likeness of God. We were aimed for a high target. Aristotle also used the word Hamartia to describe tragedy, the fall of a noble man caused by some excess or mistake in behavior, not because of a willful violation of the gods' laws. Hamartia is related to hubris which means extreme haughtiness or arrogance. Hubris often indicates being out of touch with reality and overestimating one's own competence or capabilities, especially for people in positions of power. Simply speaking, it is thinking we are somehow special and above the rules that apply to others.

Anytime we fall short of God’s glory in the way we live, love, express joy we seek to satisfy our addiction or sin. Each of us has our own avenue for this addiction. I once heard that one could sum the trifecta of Pride, Sloth and Fear from which most sin evolves. We are either too arrogant to notice or admit our real problems, too lazy to do what is necessary to change or too fearful to really live a life trusting God by faith.

Often we will accept and try to tolerate our addiction by drowning it in many ways. Some will live in blind ignorance as whole religions and philosophies have done proclaiming “we don’t have a problem.” Ignoring, expressing tolerance won’t make it better. Others live with the addiction claiming “I was born this way.” All of us were born with an addiction. I was born with an addiction to heterosexuality. I always had a very strong appreciation of pretty women. My addiction often troubled me as a young single man seeking to live a righteous and celibate Christian life until I met a very pretty woman who loved me enough to be my wife. I still appreciate God’s creation of the opposite sex but I made a lifelong comment to be addicted only to the one to whom I said “I do” thirty years ago. Now it is fun to mount up to God’s glory and love her as Christ loved the church. Just the other night we had a romantic supper on the deck, held hands on the swing for hours and…well I digress.

If you do not admit (as I just did) and deal with your addiction, it will destroy the joy God intends you to have as you are created and aimed for a higher target. For instance I also have an addiction to Double Stuff Oreos. I know they are on the shelf of the cookie isle, waiting to jump into the shopping cart, so I don’t go down that isle. Sometimes avoiding places, people and activities is necessary to avoid problems with addiction. A 12-step program will not work. Trusting your life completely to Jesus, receiving his forgiving healing grace and the inward power of the Holy Spirit to change you day by day is the only answer. He will teach, change and guide you if you will be honest with yourself and let Him work to heal your addiction.

Hello, I my name is Bill and I am an addict.

60 Seconds

My father had a plaque on his desk that I will always remember. It read, “For every minute you are angry you lose 60 seconds of happiness.” It described a philosophy by which he lived, as I shared recently at his funeral, as well as a philosophy he passed on to me. Not only is it a good philosophy but it is theologically sound. Philippians 3: 13-14 says, Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Now, the Bill Drees translation is this, “Guys, I may not have everything figured out yet, but here is what I am doing; forgetting the past, by making things right with all I can and living as hard as I can to be what God has called to do and created me to be until I am in Heaven.”

Too many lives and too many moments that can never be redeemed are lost by living and focusing on the past. All we have is this moment and it is a fragile vapor. James 4:14 gives the sobering reminder that we are not promised another moment other than this one we currently have. “Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” I am constantly amazed at the way people choose to spend the vapor of the moment, which is all the life we know we will have, being angry, foolish, holding a grudge, fearful, worrying, having hurt feelings or being self-centered. It is much easier to get over things quickly and enjoy the moment. That is why most people see me with a quick smile, even in the midst of life’s storms. It helps the storm to pass quickly. Jesus woke from a storm, brought immediate peace then questioned the faith of those followers who were afraid during the storm. You see He was so restful and at peace with the Father that he could sleep when others were erroneously worried for their lives.

Worries, anxiety, anger, fear, failure to quickly forgive are all emotions that one never sees in the face of Jesus. As a professing follower of Jesus far too many actually live as Atheists when it comes time to practice this faith in life’s storms. Church people can be some of the worst at failing to put faith into practice. I know some former church members who are still holding a grudge against me three churches ago. Bless their hearts (those of you who know true Southern know the real translation of that phrase.) I once had a group of youth who became angry at the pastor because I expected them to be somewhat quiet and not disrupt the worship service so they vandalized my home. I guess they needed to advance a little in school and church knowledge because they didn’t realize that my home was the church parsonage and they simply damaged church property angering their parents who were church members. Anger and vengeance rarely works as we plan. It is best to forgive as quickly as possible so we can move to happiness and joy. One never knows when the vapor of live will flicker out. I have officiated at funerals for people in their 90’s and less than 9 months.

My first sermon was from John 10:10, “The thief comes to rob steal, kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” It has been nearly thirty five years since I first preached this message and I still want to get the most out of each day. The best way is to live each moment loving God with all your heart and loving your neighbor as your self. Life is too short to hold a grudge, be anxious, worry or be afraid. I don’t know when my vapor will flicker out but until it does I will try to make the most of each moment by getting my 60 seconds of happiness. I hope you will do the same. The best time to start is now. GO!

Life Changing Power

Preachers are often asked tough questions. After going to school for many years I thought I was ready for the questions. I could not wait to go to parties or other places and have people ask the tough questions. Once after Church a man approached me and said, “Preacher, I have a question!” I thought, “Here we go…I have studied, I am ready. Put it to me!” He said, “Was the thermostat broken, I thought I was going to freeze to death during church.” Some people like to try to trick you by asking things like, “Where did Cain get his wife?” I quickly respond by telling them I would tell you if I were Able. (And you thought all those years in theology classes were a waste?) Other questions are real as people truly seek answers for life’s difficult struggles. People wonder; “Why do some join the church and drop out?, Why do church members often act so mean?, Why do bad things happen? Why am I, as a Child of God, having all this trouble?” Or as a book for teens so adequately expressed for many of us, “If I Am A Christian, Why Can’t I Get My Locker Open?”

Preachers preach about life changing power. Why are so many things the same? Why do we seem to try our best and struggle so hard with some of the same difficulties? First we must remember that Biblical Christianity is not about following rules, rituals & get blessings. Some struggles are there for our growth & perfection (Hebrews 2:10). Nothing grows in complete sunshine. To have growth there must be some rain. God is in the process of building something eternal. Too often our perspective comes from a short-term worldly and selfish perspective. Too often we give up & believe change is impossible. Human behavior experts tell us after age 30 rarely change. However, we hear about the Gospel being the power to change anything in your life.

I have long been captivated by II Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come.” Notice he did not say ‘in church but in Christ’. Lets look at the way to receive life changing power as we break down the powerful verse word for word phrase by phrase.

“Therefore” - refers to the previous verses (14, 15) as these are additional consequences of identification with Christ in death & resurrection. Christianity not for the casual observer. It requires complete and reckless surrender. “Anyone” – It is available for anyone; no matter their race, gender, pocketbook, past history, background, etc. ANYONE means ANYONE! “In Christ” - a favorite term for Paul. He doesn’t say in church, denomination, movement, experience…in Christ! He is speaking of a personal daily involvement/relationship with risen Lord. In Christ means all things that are Christlike are in you; such as: Truth, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,...(see Galatians 5:22, 23). If the Fruit of the Spirit is not evidenced in your life, there may be evidence of the absence of Christ in your life. One can be in church and be unchanged. One cannot be in Christ and be unchanged! “New”- There are two Greek words for new: NEOS & KAINOS. NEOS means, ‘of most recent production (A Ford purchased in June vs. a Ford purchased in January is neos). KAINOS means new as to form of quality or of a different nature from the old. (My old form of transportation was a bicycle my kainos form of transportation is a Ferrari!) This means there is a completely new set of standards, vision, thoughts (I Cor. 2:15). “Creation”- Construction term (act of establishing, building). A completely new thing or being is established. A person reborn in Christ is the fulfillment of God’s original purpose in creation. We are in His Image. Our lives are a reflection of Christ (Matthew 5:14).

What happens after one become a new creation? “Old Things” (from the Greek word Archia) Archaic, outdated things belonging to past times begin to pass away. This refers to unregenerate ways, acts of sinful nature (Galatians 5:19-20) that are “Passed Away”. According to the Greek tense this is a continuous process. Leaving sin as a way of life. Sinful ways either going or gone. We don’t need them anymore. “Behold” the note of triumph as we move into the life of triumphant changing power. “ All Things Become New” is in the Greek perfect tense which means three things; first, this is action in continuous progress – Not one time event, God not finished yet! Hang in there! Second, your salvation experience is coming to a point of culmination – you will become completely like Jesus in Heaven. Third, it exists as a completed result – Jesus made you new! Continue to reflect Him as you enjoy your walk, loving others as you grow in grace.

When God Seems Silent

In the climactic ending scene of one of my favorite movies, Cool Hand Luke, Paul Newman who plays Lucas Jackson goes to an abandoned church to talk to God. After several failed attempts at prayer he feels as if God is giving him the silent treatment. I love the movie for several reasons but this scene truly is one that I identify with. I can’t speak for everyone, sometimes I talk so much I wonder if I can speak for myself but I have had times when I felt as if I was getting the silent treatment from God. I know the feeling of Lucas Jackson of being on his knees in the church, folding his hands, trying his best to pray as he has been taught and hearing nothing then peeking up only to see empty rafters above his head.

There have been times when the voice of God seemed strong, unwavering and direct (admittedly not as often as I would like). There have been times when I felt overcome by waves of grace so strong that it brought tears and I am not one easily given to those emotions (OK, the older I get the sappier I become). However, there have been times when my spirit felt dry as the voice of God seemed silent. What is going on when God seems silent?

There is an old saying, “If you feel distant from God, ask, ‘Who Moved?’” The question reminds us of the omnipresence of God who promises to be with us always, never leaving or forsaking us. However, there are times when God is with us but silent. Before Jesus came to the disciples in a supernatural way, walking on the water, he watched them from a distance as he let them struggle against the wind alone. Another time Jesus was in the boat with the disciples in the midst of a terrible storm. The word used to describe the storm is SIEZEMOS from which we get out word seismograph; the device used to measures earthquakes. They feared for their lives. Jesus was right there with them but he was not doing anything. In fact, he was asleep. Although Psalm 121:4 tells us, “he who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps. There are times in every life when God seems distant or napping as we cry out to him. What is going on in those times? What do we do?

Often God seems distant because we did indeed move. When the distance is caused by our drifting we need to draw back to Him. The first checkpoint is our connection with Him. Where are we in listening, understanding and following His word? When help is needed in understanding, communicating, connecting and following; do what is necessary to find the help needed. Don’t let pride, bitterness, or laziness get in the way. This is why it is vital to be active in a community of believers.

There are other times when we are sincerely trying our best in prayer & Bible study to commune, connect and draw near to God but he seems silent and distant. These are the difficult days when the Scriptures seem dry as dust and prayers never seem to get past the ceiling. Where is God in these times and why is he silent? First, do not despair; you are not alone in these days. Read the Psalms and you will find prayers from David and writers who honestly cried out with the same questions.

Even when God is silent He is with us. He promised to be with us always and never leave or forsake (Matthew 28:20 & Hebrews 13:5). He often uses silence to allow us to grow in our own faith as we struggle. Jesus left the disciples, in Mark 6, to strain alone for a while but at the right time He came to them, even when it seemed humanly impossible for help to arrive, He literally walked on water to get there. When we need Him, He comes at the right time and nothing can hinder His arrival. Look at the time as Jesus was silent in the midst of the SIEZEMOS storm that they thought would be their demise. Rather than fear they should have interpreted His silence as the mood of faith. They were not in danger. As we often do today, they over exaggerated the trouble. They were not about to drown. The boat was not about to sink. They just took on a little water. In fact they forgot as long as they were with Jesus they didn’t even need the boat. If the boat sank He could walk on the water and carry them to shore. He would teach them that lesson of faith soon enough, Oh if we would just wait and have faith!

Often God’s silence precedes a great event from Him. Remember there were three days of silence before the resurrection. After the last word from an Old Testament prophet there were some 400 years of silence before Jesus entered human history as, “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” So next time God seems silent. Grow in your faith as you trust him to do something great in your midst!

Contentment

I used to play a lot of golf. However, I found myself spending time and money getting frustrated. I never was satisfied with my results. Once I left the course frustrated with a score of 75 because I remembered 3 putts that just missed keeping me from scoring even par or 72. I confess struggles with the demon of perfectionism since I was a kid. There is merit in always wanting to improve and get better but frustration and despair results from never being satisfied with the current situation. The Apostle Paul shares a remarkable word in his letter to the Philippian church as he says, “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” What a gift and goal for all to learn to be content no matter whatever the circumstances. Attaining this stage in life was even more remarkable considering these words were penned in prison. Paul had not committed a crime, other than preaching truth when people in power wanted to avoid dealing with God’s truth.

The world in which we live promotes dissatisfaction with our lives. We are constantly bombarded with newer and better things touted to make our lives more complete if only we would obtain them! When we listen to the world, we compare lifestyles and possessions of others with our own, and often become dissatisfied. If our contentment comes from possessions, activities, or other people, these can be altered or removed. If our contentment comes from our relationship with Christ, there is absolutely nothing that can take that away.

Dr. Henry Blackaby says, “Contentment frees you to enjoy every good thing God has given you. Contentment demonstrates your belief that God loves you and has your best interest in mind. Discontent stems from the sin of ingratitude and a lack of faith that God loves you enough to provide for all that you need. Strive to be grateful for all that God has given you. A grateful heart has no room for envy.”
Envy, ingratitude and desire for things and relationships that we do not have can lead to discontent. We begin to think we deserve more than we have. Scripture reminds us we actually have more than we deserve. Romans 3:23 tells us all we all fall short of what we have been created to be. Romans 6:23 tells us what we earn by falling short is death. The fact that we have breath to express discontent should remind us to be appreciative. Each breath is a gift of grace from God. When we become grateful for what we have rather than focused on what we desire we begin to enjoy the life all around us rather than lose the blessings of the day.

After I learned to enjoy the round of golf rather than be frustrated by the score I found it a nice way to spend some time. I also enjoy time in my kayak. Kayaking gives a good parallel to enjoy life and find contentment on a daily basis, as did Paul, no matter the circumstances. There are three basic rules I read posted on the Snake River. They are as follows; 1. Go with the flow & don’t get addled-lean back. 2. If worse comes, let go of everything you’ll come up. 3. Danger is part of the trip. Enjoy the ride!

When we completely trust all our lives to Christ by faith we can find contentment each day as we go with the flow. When the worst happens we can let go of things we thought we needed and survive as He brings us up. Finally, when we lose anxiety and worry seeking safety and security in things of this world we can find contentment each day. Helen Keller said it this way, “Security is mostly a superstition. It does not exist in nature, nor do the children of men as a whole experience it. Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure. Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.” So don’t get addled-lean back and enjoy the ride.

Off Camera

Candid pictures can reveal quite a bit about. When one knows they are going to have a picture made one usually makes a pose. We will always try to put the best face forward when we have fair warning. However, a candid shot catches you in your normal pose of life, what you look like off camera when you think no one is looking. I took my staff on a mission vision trip. Pictures were taken to make presentations when we got back to the church. I was surprised when I saw one picture with me included as I thought I was being careful to stand well out of camera range.

The picture was one of a teacher who is involved in a ministry that provides food to needy children. I have known and worked with her for years. We share several things. We are dedicated followers of Jesus, we love to help people, we have a zest for life and we both have been miraculously saved from an early death. More about that in a moment, back to the picture where I thought I was standing out of the picture until I saw the presentation at my church. It was a complete surprise. I thought I was well out of camera range. The picture would just be of her. There I was standing in the edge of the photo. looking away with a big grin on my face.

As the pastor of the church I am somewhat public, like it or not, and my picture pops up often. I do think we could do something more attractive to draw members but that is another matter. A member once remarked, “You are always smiling!” I hadn’t thought about it but, I guess they were right. I smile a lot. I don’t know what I was smiling about in this shot; my wife says it looks like I was up to something. I admit, I am often ‘up to something’. Often I’m thinking of a way I can do something to bring a smile to the other person in the room, I think joy should be shared.

As a believer there is no reason NOT to smile a lot. Life does have its troubles. Jesus tells us it rains on the just and the unjust. However, when one has faced their own mortality as Jenny and I both have done you learn not to sweat the small stuff. When you are a follower of Christ, as we both are, the WORST that can happen is you die, and go to heaven forever! How bad is that? You just gotta smile!

The teacher in the picture where I am caught smiling is a sister in Christ who shares an easy smile because she survived a severe allergic reaction that placed her in a coma where she could not breathe, use her muscles or communicate but could hear the doctors say that she would not make it. She fooled them. She had to learn to talk, walk and eat again as well as smile. I had three aneurysms and a rare renal artery disease that were undetected apart from a rare & unusual kidney stone that led to other tests. My doctor told my wife, “This is what we normally discover during the autopsy as we wonder what causes a man to die in his sleep or suddenly drop dead seeming healthy in mid-life. God has something yet for him to do!”

II Corinthians 1:4 tells us God comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we have received from God. The Greek word for comfort literally means ‘stand beside’. God may not remove troubles in this sin-scarred world but he promises to stand beside us. Then he connects us with others who walked through similar troubles or are may be walking through similar troubles so we can stand beside them as their comfort.

When you truly realize each day is a gift and God is standing beside you it is a joy to stand beside others and have them stand with you. Every day he gives us breath is filled with purpose. When troubles come, God is standing beside us helping us learn and grow. You are going to make it. Even in the midst of darkness, someone named David called it the valley of the shadow of death, God is there. You can manage a smile knowing God is with you. He promises in Hebrews 13:5 never to leave or forsake you. When we learn and grow from those valleys he leads us to stand beside others in their troubles to help them learn and grow. You just gotta smile!

More Than a Gardener

Mary Magdalene went to find the body of Jesus on that first Easter morning. She wanted to express her tremendous grief, anoint his body with burial spices and just to be near the man who freed her from numerous evil spirits that previously had dominated and controlled her life. She found an empty grave and began weeping thinking the body had been removed. She did not take much notice of the others at the grave who asked why she was weeping. She saw another whom she thought was the gardener. He spoke her name and immediately she knew it was Jesus; ALIVE! The joy was indescribable. Imagine visiting the fresh grave of most important beloved person in your life and seeing them standing beside it!

That emotion is the eternal passion of Easter as well as the abundant life knowing the risen Lord as your savior and redeemer. Often lost in that incredible feeling is the fact that she originally thought he was the gardener. Nothing is scripture is placed there without reason. There is a striking contrast in the work of a gardener and that of the risen Lord. A gardener goes about making things look better. Jesus makes all things new (Revelation 21:5). A gardener dresses up things temporarily (he has to keep trimming, pruning and cutting but his work is short-lived. His garden will keep growing and he will have to keep at it.) Romans 6:9-10 tells us the work of Jesus was one time for ALL time! When we place our faith in Him the work of salvation is complete. We just need to continue to grow in our relationship with him becoming like him by faith. This comes through the power of the Holy Spirit, His word and fellowship with the body of Christ (other believers).

Mary knew the gardener was Jesus when He called her name. John 10 tells us the Good Shepherd “calls his own sheep by name and leads them”. When Jesus calls us by name there is no mistaking His voice. We are often too distracted to hear His voice. Like Mary who was too caught up in her own grief to see and recognize angels or Spiritual beings we can get caught up in our own feelings and emotions and walk past God’s ‘angels’ or messengers everyday. The word angel comes from the Greek word "angelos" which means messenger. So and angel is literally a message or messenger from God.

Every Easter (and on other Sundays as well) many people do as the gardener. They try to ‘make things look good’. We can dress up, act a certain way but it will only be temporary without Jesus. Religion and church can make things look good for a while but only Jesus can transform hearts and make things new forever. II Corinthians 5:17 speaks of becoming new creatures by being IN Christ NOT in a building with a steeple. No matter how pretty or impressive, it is just a building without Jesus. I tell our folks, “We don’t come to church, we ARE the church!”

Mary went looking for Jesus that morning and thought she had missed Him until He called her. He is sending ‘angels’ or messengers and calling us daily. Let us not get distracted in our own feelings, agenda or thoughts to miss Jesus as He stands before us ALIVE!

The Secret

The pretty young sales clerk smiled and asked, “Do you need any help?” I answered, “I need help in more ways than I can answer but for the moment I need you to assist me in purchasing a gift for my wife. I want to give her something special to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the day I proposed.” She sighed, “That is so sweet. I have been engaged for two weeks. What is the secret of a long and happy marriage?” As I made my purchase we talked about the ‘secret’. Others may have their opinion but Cathy and I are more in love now and having more fun than we did on our honeymoon so if your ‘secret’ works for you good enough but here is mine…

There is no real secret! It takes love, hard work, commitment, and a determined obedience to do what you promised to do in front of each other, whatever witnesses gathered at the wedding and God. Now, I realize that does not sell many movie tickets or romance novels but you can ask my wife and she will tell you that we have more lasting REAL romantic moments and REAL romance than any of those fiction novels or movies! Now we both will admit that we have had our adventures with learning each other over the years. (How’s that for PC language in saying that some passionate discussions are not always made with smiling faces?) However, we always wind up better and stronger in our love.

One problem with so many relationships is the misunderstanding of love. A good example comes from an old country song by Tom T. Hall entitled, ‘I Love’. It is meant to be a sweet simple song serenading a girl but listen to a verse; “I love leaves in the wind, pictures of my friends, birds in the world, and squirrels. I love coffee in a cup, little fuzzy pups, bourbon in a glass, and grass and I love you too.” Now, I don’t know about you but I think I realize why ole Tom T. had trouble stayin’ married. When one is on the same level as a glass of whiskey and squirrels one should begin to smell the coffee, which is also on the same level as the love he feels for you “TOO”!

Real love that is the ‘secret’ to marriage is best described in New Testament. Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 for a good description. The New Testament was originally written in the Greek language. The Greeks had more than one word for love. Three words are prominently used in the Bible. EROS is the physical attraction that usually causes us to notice one another in the first place. It may change from time to time as our physical appearance may do so over the years so a relation built entirely on EROS will be shaky. PHILIA describes the love of a best friend. Philadelphia, the city of Brotherly Love gets its name from that word. Then there is AGAPE which is different. Both of the previous ‘loves’ have to do with feelings and emotions. However AGAPE is not a feeling or emotion but a willful decision of the mind to love someone, even if they are hard to love, unlovable, disappoint you or don’t wind up as you hoped or even happen to be an enemy. Agape is the unfailing love that God has for us. It is truly humanly impossible to have this love without Christ in your life. That is why so many marriages without Jesus do not last.

One can have a relationship based on attraction or looks and when attraction wanes or someone else looks good the attraction goes in that direction. That love is conditional and does usually not last. One can have a relationship based on friendship that is good but without enough passion and commitment to last when things get tough, as they will in this sin-scarred world. None of us get through this life without wounds. That love is also conditional and does not usually last on its own. However, when a relationship has the foundation of Christ who gives us His power to love, forgive & forget and hang in there beyond our human resources when the conditions fluctuate, as they will, THEN we will have the secret! A relationship that balances EROS (attraction), PHILIA, (friendship) and AGAPE (a willful commitment to love and never leave or forsake no matter what happens) has found the secret that is worth sharing.

I didn't think my life would turn out like this!

“I didn’t think my life would turn out like this!” That’s what my dad told me as he assessed situation of being a widower and his necessity to move away from his home and have assistance due to continued declining health. Actually none of us really know exactly how the story of our lives will turn out or how the story will end. When asked, most people say they do not want to know how or when they will die. On the contrary I do want to know how and when I will die! I realize I am different but if I knew when it was going to happen, then a week before I am going to die I would eat nothing but Double Stuffed Oreos and Ice Cream! Why bother eating fruit when there is just a week left! On a more serious note I did hear one lady late in her long life say that if she had it all to do over again she would “eat more ice cream and less beans”. (My translation: beans are good for you and are a necessary part of your diet, but ice cream is more fun…or more simply, ”Do what is necessary in life but have as much fun as possible as you do it!”)

Famous author Stephen Covey writes that we are responsible for 90% of what happens to our lives, which is the way we react to the 10% of that which we cannot control. I have read his works and agree that our reaction is important but respectfully disagree with his math. (But I am sure, as a best selling author, he worries about my disagreement all the way to the bank). There are some who are born into a family of abuse, addiction or dysfunction that affects their lives on a larger percentage than 10%. Others cannot control the health that changes their lives. I have known many who have had their lives turn out in very surprising and shocking ways when a spouse becomes unfaithful, has a disease or dies creating a life situation out of their control but it destroys their dreams and their future.

I have learned that there are some parts of our life story that we simply cannot control. In spite of my desire know how and when my life will end (to get a head start on my Oreo binge if for no other reason) I cannot know the ending. Regardless of my desire to work things out the way I think best, I do not always know the best way. I do not have complete knowledge. Isaiah 55: 8 reminds me, God’s thoughts are not my thoughts and his ways are not my ways. I have to trust God even when I don’t understand and it doesn’t make sense to me. I know he loves me and he knows best. While one can not control how or when life will end in this world, when we place our faith in Christ we can have the assurance of what happens afterward. Jesus comes to take us to be with him (John 14:1-4).

Life here does have its uncertain qualities. However, there are some parts of my life story that I can write. I can write what I do today. Dad did not know his life would turn out like this but he did have a plaque on his desk that read, “For every minute you are angry, you lose 60 seconds of happiness!” He taught me that we may not know how things will turn out in this world but we can make the most of each moment. I remember growing up in a home of laughter. I still am famous for asking my wife, in the middle of one of those ‘discussions’ that married couples sometimes have, “OK how long to we have to stay mad about this? Is 3 minutes OK or do we have to use up 5?” (Take it from me, under those circumstances that question does not normally subtract minutes but I am a slow learner in some things).

Ecclesiastes 11 4-6 tells us, “Whoever watches the wind will not plant; whoever looks at the clouds will not reap. As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother's womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things. Sow your seed in the morning, and at evening let not your hands be idle, for you do not know which will succeed, whether this or that, or whether both will do equally well.” One way of understanding what this scripture is telling us is to stop waiting to figure everything out or find the perfect time or answer for things in life. Sometimes one has to make the most of the opportunity at hand because we do not know what tomorrow may bring. So…sow while you can. Trust God with the harvest!

The Blues Just Natch’ly Comes Through

As a boy I wanted to play the guitar. Dad surprised me with an expensive guitar he purchased from a client. It was slightly used but a real bargain. I still remember him smiling as he shared this direct quote, “Mr. Jack I needs to get rid of this thang. We had a revival at church and I got religion. I keep trying to play church songs but the blues just natch’ly comes through so I got’s to sell her.” I was only a boy but the quote stayed with me as the years passed because I often identify with the struggle with my own shortcomings.

I would love to own a Harley. However, I haven’t driven a motorcycle in years. I probably wore out several guardian angels not having the discipline to drive slowly. I often think John Newton writing Amazing Grace added the verse; “Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far” just for me. I even walk fast today but my two legs do not have enough horsepower to get me into trouble. I really learned my lesson during one of my many mid-life crisis times (I stopped calling them mid-life because I am now 57 and don’t think I will make 114 at my pace). I bought a used Porsche. I got my first ticket four days later. My local police chief told me red sports cars were ticketed more than any other. I thanked him for the tip, after the fact! Anyway, I was on my way to an out of town conference. It was a beautiful day. I put in my driving music and hit the road. A car with a radar detector (fuzz buster as some call them) zoomed past me. I thought, “I’ll hang with you & let you run interference & we’ll enjoy the road today.” I turned up the volume, dropped the peddle and we were off. I was thoroughly enjoying weaving through traffic with my high speed ‘escort’ when I noticed buildings that seemed unusual. I had become so captivated with my enjoyable drive that I was in the wrong city (not only does time fly by when you are having fun but evidently so do exit signs), but “Man, I made great time!” God truly convicted me. So…”I got’s to sell her.” I now drive an 11 year old economy truck ("old man truck" according to my girls).

Whether it is ‘playing the blues’, which I still enjoy by the way or being undisciplined in other areas of life. Each of us has our own primary avenue that more easily leads to disaster and destruction. Usually they can be categorized in the famous triad of PRIDE (vanity), FEAR or SLOTH (we are simply too lazy to do the work to improve or better ourselves).

One does not have to look much farther than the mirror to find Robert Lewis Stevenson’s inspiration for the classic, ‘Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’ where the good Dr. Henry Jekyll experiments with his evil curisoties until he is overcome by them. Paul, the Apostle, wrote of this in Romans 7, “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.”

All of us struggle with our weaknesses. Jesus tells us, in the Sermon on the Mount, “If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.” Obviously he is not advocating bodily mutilation but leaving those things that cause us trouble. This is why I don’t go down the cookie isle in the grocery store. There are Double Stuff Oreos on the shelf! I can hear them calling me!

God created us to live an abundant life (John 10:10). We cannot do so if we are slaves to the things that cause us to stumble. Jesus gives us the power to say no. Each of us knows our own primary avenue that more easily leads to disaster and destruction. To get the most joy out of your life, go ahead and give the culprit a name (confession) and realize it is time when “I gots to sell her.” (repent)and give it up. The power of the Holy Spirit can allow you to go in a different direction and really enjoy the music!