Morning Moments

It was so strange!  I had only been at the new church for about a week.  In walks this guy, sits in a chair across from my desk and says, "You know, I did not vote for you to be the pastor here.  I don't like your style of leadership."  Just like that!  I said, "Ok, now that we have that settled, how about a cup of coffee?"  Just like that!  For almost ten years he reminded me that he did not vote for me to be the pastor, and every time I would smile and say, "but aren't you glad I am?"

Time past and I received a call one day that he was just told he had cancer.  Immediately, I went to the home of his parents (he had moved away), where he was visiting.  He was alone.  I walked in gave him a big hug and said "I love you, man and I'm sorry to hear the news."  We talked awhile and once again he reminded me about his vote.  For the first time, I asked "Why have you told me this over and over through the years?  And why would you have not voted for me to be the pastor?"

"Well," he replied, "I always thought you were arrogant."  I looked him straight in the eyes and said, "If you would really give your life to Jesus, you would have a change of heart and see that what you call arrogance, is really confidence.  But that confidence in not in me, but in Jesus."

At that point God broke his heart and he did surrender his life to Jesus that day.  What a difference I saw in his life.  What a blessing he became.  What an encouragement he became.

By the way, Jesus not only cured his soul, but his body too!  Isn't the Lord AMAZING?  Jesus knew precisely what He was saying when He said, "Blessed are you when men insult you...."

PRAYER:  Father, please help me to remember that I can honestly love those who don't love me, and that I do not have to render insult for insult, but that I can take it patiently, by your grace, and through faith please YOU.