How generous are you?

During these challenging economic times we may want to turn inward and close ourselves off from the world and the church's mission. Our hands close tightly into fists and we cross our arms and turn away from helping others.

Only the Lord our God has the power to open our hands and hearts, to unfold our arms so that we reach out with the love of Christ. And, only the love of Christ moves us to assist, help, and serve our neighbor in need.

St. Paul writes this in 2 Corinthians: "We know the generous act of our Lord Jesus Christ who though he was rich for your sakes became poor, so that from his poverty we might become rich."

Earlier in the same chapter as he motivates and inspires the Corinthians in their generosity, Paul writes that "they first gave themselves to the Lord and then by God's will to us."

My friends, we are only as generous as the level of trust we have in Jesus who gave his very life for us and for the world.

Peace,

Pastor Durk

 Waiting on God

In Isaiah 65 we hear these words- "From ages past, no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you who works for those who wait for him."  

You might ask yourself in light of these words how you are waiting for God.  Yes, "how" are you waiting for the Lord these days? 

There is such a thing known as "active waiting."  This kind of living in Christ means you are active in serving and loving all the while waiting on the Lord.

I find myself often waiting for the Lord to speak to me and answer my prayers. Or, I find myself waiting for the Lord to show me a sign.

The funny thing is this- we may be listening in a very selfish manner or looking in all the wrong places.  I am convinced that God loves to surprise us in our waiting.  

When is the last time God surprised you?

Blessings to you as you wait on the Lord,

Pr. Durk

Peace,

Pastor Durk