Change

As we drove from western Arkansas through eastern Oklahoma we were taken by the beauty of the tree covered hills. One wonders how God could combine so many shades of red, yellow, orange, and brown with an occasional splash of green leftover from the summer to create such a panorama. The view was breath taking beautiful. Our conversation was constantly interrupted by, “Look at that one.”

We look forward to fall and the spectacular views of the changing colors. The colors are not the only changes that fall brings. The temperature changes, the sports we watch change, time even changes, and for some our jobs may also change.

Change comes to us all. So why do we all have so much trouble adjusting to change in so many areas of our lives? Change is a regular part of our society and culture. Yet anytime we make changes to our personal routine it takes an effort to make the change.

Perhaps that is the pattern I am looking for. We celebrate change that affects us all. We deliberately drive through the country to watch the changing seasons. But our discomfort with change seems to grow as the change becomes more personal. Changes in our routine in our life, our job, and even in our church takes us longer to appreciate.

I read a quote recently that the only person who likes change is a wet baby. I can’t seem to find the source but it sure makes sense. Sometimes we may even agree that the change is necessary but just do not get in there and help make it happen. If we could get as excited about changes we need to make as we do about the changing seasons we might see good things happen more quickly.

Change is an important part of the Christian life. There is no salvation without repentance, which means change. Paul said, “We will not all fall asleep, but we will all be changed,” (1 Cor. 15:51) One day we will be called to the ultimate change. We will change from mortal to immortal. I don’t think any of us will drag our feet when that trumpet sounds.

Bro. Robin

Appreciation

There are some expressions that are so common that when we use them we all know what we mean. For example, when I say, “my better half,” everyone knows that I am talking about my wife. When we say, “our pride and joy,” we all know that we are talking about a child, usually a baby. We know this because the feelings we have about our children are as universal as the expression. As our children get older we may stop using such expressions to describe them. But the feelings of pride and joy never go away and never diminish.

We share in the experiences of our children. We may be disappointed from time to time. When they hurt we hurt with them. When they are happy we are happy with them. When they are appreciated for something they have done, we feel appreciated right along with them.

This month you showed your appreciation for my son, Eric, for his service to our country and his sacrifice. The crowd that came for the dinner was overwhelming as you honored Eric and Andria. Congressman John Boozman’s appearance was also a special honor, arranged by some of our members. Eric well deserved your attention that day. My heart was full of pride and joy for my son and for all of you who were there to show your appreciation.

This was also Clergy Appreciation month. I thank you for the way you showed your appreciation when you also honored the staff with many kind words and a dinner. You pulled out all the stops and blessed us more than I can say. Personally, I felt honored two weeks in a row. You showed your appreciation for my family, my co-workers (who are like family), and me. Thank you.

This is a great church and this is what makes this church great. My prayer is that our love and appreciation for each other will grow and spread. This is the heart of the Gospel that we are taking across the street and around the world.

God Bless you for your love for Him and for us.
Bro. Robin