Thursday, August 7, 2014

Taking off the mask

Hey Friends and Family,

I’ve been extremely challenged by the last two services and wanted to make a short comment. As I said, I was ambushed in the saddle by the service on humility. In order to deal with humility we had to take a long hard look at Nebuchadnezzar’s pride. Up until now, I would have told you that “pride” is not an issue for me. I can no longer say that. Think about it: If pride is the GREAT sin and the root of all sin, then it stands to reason that I, Ron Thompson, chief of sinners, is full of it. I am so glad that God has more than enough grace for me.

This week as we talked about purpose I realized that I can totally get stuck in the rut of image management and making everything about me. I was brought face to face with my disregard for the fact that my days are numbered and that I lack a sense of urgency over certain things that really matter. Can anyone relate to this? I know you can.

God’s grace, Jesus Christ and His cross give me hope that even when I am weak, He is strong and merciful. I look forward to this Sunday as we look at the courage of Daniel as he faced sure death when he was thrown into a den of hungry lions for his unwavering courage in the face of persecution.

One more thing. Instead of looking out at the world and condemning culture for being like Babylon, remember that the darkness of Babylon is in each of us. I fight with it every day. We all do. So let’s remember to look at the sin inside each of us and ask God to help us to have the courage to be real with Him and others. When we live with a pattern of intimacy with God, we will stand apart and be a positive influence in our world.

Love what God is doing in us,


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