I was pondering the other day the incredible opportunities that God has placed before me in my life.  As a result of serving Him I have had some wonderful opportunities and also some incredible challenges. 

As I looked back over my over 20 years in ministry I thought of the fact that I have been to Japan to teach AWANA to leaders in that country.  It has also been my incredible privilege to meet dignitaries like our congressman, state reps, mayors, the former Chicago Police Superintendents, state officials and many others.  Each time I have been impressed by how ordinary and common all of these folks were.  I have been able to see and do things that would not have otherwise been available to me.

Everything is not all exciting and wonderful though.  I have also had the privilege of sitting and grieving with parents, spouses and children who have lost a loved one.  I have had people turn their backs on me in anger for a a stand that had to be taken.  Friends have walked away and left.  People once dedicated to Christ walk away from the faith and have caused me to grieve.  All of these circumstances are difficult.  Through it all however I would not trade a minute of this exciting life that God has given me.

Serving God is not all highs.  There are peaks and valleys, but always worth it.  Why?  Because the peaks are bonuses and in the valley your never alone.  He will never leave you nor forsake you.  Through all of the difficult times He was always there letting me feel His presence.  Through all of the joys He was always there reminding me to be grateful to Him for He is the source of all joy.  Sometimes I still can't believe that He uses me.  There is a song that says, "Amazing Love, how can it be?"  That's where I am, just saying , "How can it be?" Because of Him, Pastor.

As we sang "O For A Thousand Tongues to Sing" today I thought to myself, "O if only the people in this auditorium would sing..."  Please understand this is not a scolding, jus a thought.  I know some of us are self conscience about our voices (the sound team is duely admonished each week to please turn off my mic while we sing).  Others may not know a particular song.  But we as Christians should lift our voices in praise to the One alone who is Worthy of our praise.

I had a friend in a former church who felt that singing was the price that must be paid to get to the preaching (like cranberry sauce is a price to pay for a good Thanksgiving meal) but it is a preparation for the sermon.  It is everyone's chance to participate in the worship. It helpsget our hearts focused on God. It is good to sing praise to God. 

So go ahead, let 'er rip.  Lift up those voices on praise to God.  Because of Him, Pastor.

 

Sorry it has been so long since my last my last post.  I actually started one a few days ago and lost it as my computer went a little wacko.  Then my ADD kicked in and I forgot to get back to posting something. 

Here we are into summer.  So far it has been a very nice time.  The busy is a very busy time though for ministry.  There are many opportunities that call for our attention.  Foremost right now in my mind is VBS.  What a great time to bring some kids to church and even speak with their parents about Christ. 

We need a few things.  First we need folks who will volunteer to teach, serve or whatever.  You may say, "I', not good with kids"  So what, there are plenty of opportunities to serve.  Find one and help.  Secondly, we need kids.  Invite a few.  Bring them in.  Give a kid a chance to receive the greatest gift ever, Jesus as Savior.

Finally Happy Father's Day to all you dads.  Father's day should be a reminder to each of us fathers of the daunting task before us of leading our families.  It is not a job, or an adventure, it is a privilege granted by the Savior. 

See ya' tomorrow.  Because of Him, Pastor