I don't mean to complain, as I am very blessed, but here's a brief run-down (with associated things to be thankful for):
1. Last night - received message that our primary song leader was not feeling well and probably would not be at church in the morning. Praise: Gerry gladly stepped up and filled in.
2. This morning - piano player's daughter had in incident and we weren't sure if they would be at church this morning. Praise: the girl is OK and the piano player made it to church.
3. This morning - just before walking over to church, my coffee mug broke as I was transferring the coffee to a travel mug, shattering a bowl and splashing coffee all over. Praise: My overcoat took the coffee rather than my suit - much easier to clean and I didn't even have to change my clothes.
4. This morning (probably during church) - the dog pooped in the basement. Praise: it wasn't very messy and I didn't find out until after the service, so wasn't distracted by it.
5. This morning (unsure when) - The cat spit up. Praise: It was taken care of before I even knew. Again, was not distracted by it in the least ...
6. This morning (during the service) - Praise songs didn't go all that well due to timing, familiarity (or lack thereof), and sound issues. Praise: It isn't about perfection. It's about worship of God (however feeble our efforts may be).
7. This afternoon - was planning to preach from 1 Peter tonight, but "wasn't feeling it." Praise: God redirected to a message following up on this morning's message.
A couple of thoughts from all this:
1. I wonder how much of this was a matter of spiritual battle. I'm sure that this morning's message was one the Devil did not like, as it called us all to not only listen to Jesus' teaching but to do it ... apply it ... obey. Praise God, though distracted earlier by many of these things, God brought clarity of thought. By His grace and empowerment, I believe His Word prevailed over the distractions!
2. These frustrations and distractions are really quite minor. There are Christians throughout the world living in situations where they may very well die for their faith. It's a reminder of how petty these things, and many of our "problems" really are. Thank you God for the ability to gather with other Christians and worship freely this morning!
3. Finally, there's the every dark cloud / silver lining thing. If / when we look for it, there is nearly always something to be thankful for and praise God for. It may take some looking. but it's important to try.
So, when you have one of those crazy days (maybe tomorrow), remember these observations, as I will try to do myself.
God is Good .... All The Time!!!
In His grip,
Pastor Tim Decker
