Distracted

It happened again. I dropped the ball, more than once, sadly. Nothing that ruined the day or anyone, but that didn't keep it from bothering me all day. Sometimes, in our quest to be efficient, we end up being anything but what we desire. Likewise, in our quest to be effective...sometimes no where near close. Meanwhile, those outside often look at the church, thinking we should have it together and look at our failures as reason not to be engaged in the faith.

Sadly, mine could have been prevented. More sad...so can much of the situations the church finds themselves in. Granted, in a day and age where it's getting harder to tell who might get offended and why, this may be easier said then done, but that shouldn't negate the importance of communicating that while we are not perfect, we should not be content where we are. There is nothing in God's plan or purpose, that He desires to accomplish in and through the lives of His creation that is "status quo". Seek and save the lost, it says. Not "find, then leave alone."

We are the laborers. He brings the increase. Thankfully His grace is sufficient for our short-comings, of which I was reminded, mine are many. But that doesn't mean we aren't called out and set-apart for what He has for us, not what the world desires with us.

"There are two kinds of people: those who say 'Thy will be done,' and those to whom God says, 'All right, then, have it your way'." - C.S. Lewis

Pray, that as the church engages the community, that God's standard would be properly communicated. Pray the Holy Spirit direct conversations and prepare hearts for those who need to the life-changing truth, not religious rhetoric. Pray for barriers of offense be broken; that people would understand the difference between standing their ground and standing on Holy Ground. May the community see Christ in the lives of the church, rather than people trying to do it on their own and falling short. We all fall short and must come to accept there is only One who is reliable and reaches the standard we clearly miss.

-PNC

---