A Time To Reflect

Today is Ash Wednesday, February 25th, 2009 - a day that marks46 daysbefore Resurrection Sunday, a day that millions will place ashes in the symbol of a cross on their forehead to display one’s repentance, and a day that will cause many a believer to simply reflect, evaluate and take a deep look into their lives. Although I’ve never placed ashes on my forehead as a sign of repentance, I can think of no better time to, at the very least, take stock of my inner life to ensure I’m aligned with Jesus. It’s a great time of year to ask:

• How is my prayer life?
• Is my Bible reading consistent?
• Does my life relect the love of Jesus?
• When people read me, do they read my Savior?

You know, this is known as the season of lent, a practice for centuries to consider one’s walk with the Lord. This lent season, may I encourage you to take a deep look within? Seriously, how are you doing? Is Jesus the reason you wake up? Is God’s love the passion of your life? How about this Resurrection Season making a commitment unto the Lord to follow Paul’s example in Philippians 3:10, “…that I might know Him!”

May the Lord bless you and keep you, make His face shine upon you this day!

Pastor Randy P

Oop’s…be careful not to judge!

I’ve been reading a novel that is turning my world upside down. Or, more aptly put, turning my world right side up. The purists told me it was full of theological errors, not Biblically sound and entirely unrealistic!Hence, therighteousencouraged the book to be thrown in the round file, if you know what I mean. Well, I’m ashamed to say I succumbed to their arrogance and jumped on the proverbial it’s a waste of time read. Until…until a friend & his wife confronted me with, “Randy, have you read it? Seriously, take the book & read it with non-judgmental eyes…” You see, I boldly with conviction slammed the book from the pulpit as unchristian and aiding to a pluralistic cultured church; I actually felt justified in using the book to compliment my argument. Well, much to my embarrassment, I took the book and set out to read it, take notes on all the fallacies and come back with my barrels loaded to what I thought was to prove my point, but in reality it was more to accentuate my stupid pride. I think the phrase goes, “Pride goes before a good read and a haughty spirit before a novel!” Guess what? I read the Shack (knowing full well its fictionality…if you will) and have been moved in ways that I never imagined. In one part, I actually got lost in the book and had tears welling up in my eyes — and, I was on an aerobic bike at the gym…yipes! Now, granted the author does take literary liberties and it surely isn’t the Word of God. And yes, there are theological issues (…the trinity, the gender of the Godhead, the punishment of sin, cuss words coming out of the Father, etc.)! HOWEVER, reading The Shack has opened my eyes to a more personal, intimate daily journey with my Creator. To view the passion of the Godhead (as articulated in Mack’s struggle)and His desire to be a part of my existence (Psalm 139:13-18 and Zephaniah 3:17), every part of my existence…is not only a reminder, but a breath of fresh air in a busy, noisy and hectic life. So, lesson learned: be careful before casting aspersions. Let me close with this: the Bible is the source of all truth, no question! The Shack, or any novel, any commentary, etc., can NEVER take the place of daily Bible reading & meditation (Joshua 1:8 & 2 Timothy 2:15); and, this blog isn’t to promote a fictitious book; rather, to simply expose my arrogance and piety. So, have a great day and thanks for listening!

The Tide of Complaints

Riding the wave of complaints is a most difficult task indeed, especially when one’s career and livelihood is in the public arena. I’ve often felt that one who complains is like a diaper - they smother, they’re full of stuff and if left unattended, they become toxic. In reality, complainers tear down, arrogantly place themselves above and potentially can destroy a worthy endeavor. All to say, for those of us serving others, whether it is a public office, a non profit group, a Pastor, a Priest or even a proverbial do-gooder, hang in there, stay focused on the why’s of your motive and like a marathon runner, pace yourself for the journey! Hang in there, your cause is worth it!

It’s About the Lamb

Calling all kids and parents! Come on out to Rock Harbor on Saturday, April 4 for It’s Not About the Bunny.
This is for kids age pre-school (with parent) to 5th grade. We sure could use some volunteers. We will be playing Bingo b-a-a-ash (there will be prizes!) doing some crafts and having lots of fun fun fun!

Friends are invited and most welcome. The time is from 6-8pm.
Hope to see you there. Questions? Call the church.