Back to Church

This Sunday is the national back to church Sunday and I have mulled it around and have decided this Sunday, just this one I am coming back to church. Reminds me of a story I heard. “ A man said to his wife I’m not going to church today, the people aren’t friendly, the music too loud, the temperature is too hot, the seats are not comfortable and I am tired of standing and sitting , standing and sitting and they always expect me to put something in the offering. His wife said honey you have to go to church today, you are the pastor.” See you this Sunday.

"Push"

A few weeks ago I pulled into the Kroger parking lot and saw a young man pushing his truck and at the same time trying to jump in and pop the clutch. It appeared this was one of his many attempts as I could tell from the frustration he exhibited while slamming the truck door.

It reminded me of my younger days both the car not starting and slamming the car door so I came to his rescue. I pushed from the tailgate and he from the driver’s door again and again and again… You get the picture, my good deed had turned into the marathon of truck pushing and there was nothing to show for it. I guess it is true good intentions are not enough but in this case I am sticking with it is the thought that counts.

I could quote from Romans 8:28 “we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him” or from Isaiah 40:31 “but those who hope in the Lord will renew there strength, they will soar like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Ever been in a situation that you have the promise and the ability but the situation does not go as planned. I could push no more, asked if I could call someone for him or take him somewhere, he refused and I limped away and went into Kroger’s.

The door of opportunity has a sign on it “Push.” In this case I was not responsible to start the truck but to offer a helping hand - the results belong to God.