So, are you
in the trunk or the driver’s seat? That
was the question Pastor Skip raised at this weekend’s services. He said that when the ego is in the driver’s
seat, the heart is in the trunk.
Yikes! How often have we all left
our hearts in the trunk, and how often have we tried to tell God what we want Him to
do for us?
In Acts 8
this past week, it’s easy to see that Stephen’s faith and heart was in
Jesus. Jesus was in the driver’s seat
and Stephen’s heart was filled with faith.
No matter his fate, he knew that Jesus was driving the car and because
of that he would be okay, even if that meant bodily death.
When we
read about Stephen’s stoning, we often times marvel at his faith. Deep inside, we ask ourselves, if we were
called upon to stand our ground and proclaim the Gospel even onto death, could
we or would we be willing to do it?
In our
world of consumerism, it’s easy for us to relate to Simon in Acts 8, when he
offers to buy the power of the Holy Spirit.
Simon is a reflection of his society, just as we are. In our world, if you have money and
resources, you can most likely buy just about anything you want. But the one thing you and I can’t buy is a
relationship with God. That must be
sought after; and then it’s given freely to those who ask for it with a
contrite heart. The Gospel is not for
sale, as Pastor Skip reminded us, but God’s love, mercy and grace are given freely
as gifts to those who truly seek Him.
Next week
is Thanksgiving. For many of us we will
gather with family or friends for a feast.
We will stuff our faces and watch football; eat some more and watch
still more football; then hit the stores on Friday morning stampeding like
a group of wild buffalo to a watering hole, to grab the latest toy or flat
screen TV sometimes taking someone down to grab it. Of course, none of you good Christians would
ever think of doing that?!?
Amid all
the consumerism and feasting next week, let’s remember that the best gift can’t
be purchased at any store. It is not for
sale! It’s a relationship with God! And His free gifts can’t be bought or sold,
but only graciously received. So, in
between the turkey and the football games next week, take time to remember the
One who has provided all the blessings in our lives.
I’ve waited
to find a time to use this song by Bobby Bare called Drop Kick Me Jesus Through the Goalposts of Life. While it’s a funny song, there are some
simple truths in it. Enjoy!
May we
always park our egos in the trunk and put our faith in Jesus Christ in the
driver's seat! Can I have an AMEN?
Happy
Thanksgiving!
Pastor
Carol
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