07/17/2019
It was a busy weekend for summer sports fans.
If you followed the Scottish open, you witnessed the commitment and determination it takes to win. Wiesberger did finally gain the title against Hebert after a third sudden death play at the 18th hole. You could just feel the tension and desire as each would hit the drive and finish out a putt.
If you followed the mens’ Wimbledon match, again you witnessed a match of endurance, determination and commitment as Djokovic defeated Federer. There certainly was a moment in the match when it did not appear that would be the result. Djokovic came close to losing as he sat two match points down. The entire match was a show of endurance, determination and commitment as the match made history for its length of play.
I think that both of these events and their players have good lessons for practicing Christian faith…
1. Great commitment to practice produces endurance
2. When the opponent may seem to be a distraction and competitive, don’t give into distractions... simply focus harder.
3. If we want to be strong and competitive, the commitment needs to be year round and consistent. Part time, casual play leaves us less than we could be.
So mid summer let’s ask ourselves, are we serving as strongly, practicing as diligently, and committed enough to have the faith that God would desire for us?
Living for Jesus, Pastor Patti
Archived Posts
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The death today of Pope Francis was particularly poignant, falling as it did on the day after Easter. As Protestant Christians we have a once removed interest in the leader of the Roman Catholic church. Yet the pope is the authoritative leader of 1.4 billion women and men around the world. It is worth our time to pause and consider what kind of man and what kind of legacy Pope Francis left behind.
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Matthew 24: One More Thing...
I sometimes stumble on old documents I’ve created but have completely forgotten about. I cannot remember why I created them or what purpose they were originally supposed to serve....
Keeping the Church Doors Unencumbered
Sunday, we considered Jesus’ disruptive actions in the Temple in light of his frustration with keeping gentiles from worshipping in their designated courtyard. We then reflected on how we still tend to throw up roadblocks to those who don’t normally attend church. I found the following, but didn’t have space for it in the sermon. It’s provocative and worth chewing on for a while.
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I came across this list which feels a little like a "Greatest Hits of Jesus' Ministry". I share it with you today for your inspiration and edification. Enjoy!