March 31, 2004

Right now - - with Easter coming, with the nation alive to "the passion" of Christ, with churches and pastors making important decisions about future ministry...

I am drawn back to a thought of several months ago . . .

Actually, it was a prayer that I journaled while traveling to preach the Gospel:

"Lately, I have been thinking that no matter what we say about loving you, Lord, or about being sanctified, we are not filled with your Spirit, we are not truly sanctified if . . . We are grouchy and unthankful or if we are taking one another down."

Conversely, the fullness of God's Spirit, the evidence of his presence is ". . . love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control." (Gal. 5:22-23a)

Especially now - this Easter season - the unbelieving world is closely, often cynically, observing the Body of Christ.

By his grace, let's live and breathe and love to reflect our Lord Jesus Christ. Let's invite his Spirit to fill us. Let's be a people who choose to look for the very best in each other.

To the glory of God and the One Son who brings us not only passion and purpose, but resurrection to a new life !

Have a Blessed Easter!
JPW