Every year I hop on a plane and head out to some church in the country and join other executive pastors around the country for three days of brainstorming, talking, and laughter. This year the trip is real short - across the courtyard. We are hosting the brotherhood this year. Many of us have unique roles, and I discovered years ago that mine has its own set of interesting twists and turns. This group of folks who also lead from the second chair have been both a challenge and encouragement to me. Looking forward to old friends, and new ones this week.
These past weeks at church we dedicated a number of babies in our services. Its odd how time can seem so very slow, and so very fast, at the same time. As I handed a little one back to the arms of his dad, my mind rushed back to our girls as babies. It seems like yesterday, and it seems like a complete other lifetime. Our first baby will be 18 years old next week. There is a country song gives fair warning - “Don’t blink!”.
Yesterday morning I reached from the covers for my Bible and journal, and then scribbled a few pleas to God. None of which were earth shattering or even noticeable to anyone beside me. I needed God to meet me in a few areas of concern in my day, and in my weakness. And this morning as I repeated the rhythm of my day, I was encouraged as the Spirit reminded me how Jesus met me the day before.
I love this time of year, the cooler mornings, all the green giving way to a myriad of fall color. I love the work that is done now, for later enjoyment. Hopefully if the guy showed up - my yard is being aerated today. Then the over-seeding, fertilizer, and planting of bulbs that will be forgotten, and then discovered next spring. This is a time to plant, and for me, move stuff to a better place. I am looking forward to digging this weekend, and working up a real good sweat. There are a ton of spiritual applications to pick at, but simply - I enjoy the physical work of it all, and getting dirt ground into me. There is something therapeutic about it, something about it, that in some way has always allowed me to feel close to the Creator.
How many times have you gotten off track, or lost your focus? Sometimes we are not even clear about losing focus, until it is regained. God did something for me this past weekend, that I could not do for myself - He refocused my life. I got an alignment, and was rescued from trouble. It is so easy, too easy to lose our way. I cling to Him this day, for myself, and for those in my life who are in trouble today. Psalm 27 was a great reminder of His work in our lives - here’s a verse to hold on to today: V5 “For in the day of trouble He will keep me safe in His dwelling; He will hide me in the shelter of His tabernacle and set me high upon a rock.”
Stirred By The Scriptures
by Jim Kallam
Struggling Well With Life
by Mark Hoffman
Serving Others
2500 Carmel Road
Charlotte, NC 28226
704.364.5913
©2010, Church at Charlotte
Sunday - 8:15, 9:30 and 11:00
Saturday - 5:21 p.m.
