Fire & Water (2 Posts in 1)

Tomorrow's my day off, and I'm really working on Sabbath as a spiritual discipline, so here's two posts in one. It's funny that it takes discipline to take time off. And that God commands it!

FIRE ~ I just got home from an incredible opportunity with my son Joseph. A generous friend invited us to a dinner for Still Water Sports Camps. And the speaker was Mike Swider, Head Football Coach at Wheaton College.

I wouldn't say he's "on fire". He is fire. He is a capital-L Leader. His message was so right on the money on so many fronts, but the fact that Joseph got to hear from someone so passionate about Christ, enthusiastic about life, and challenging was an even greater benefit.

One of the things he said, among many, that resonated is this: Rules and demands without relationship result in rebellion. Rules and demands with relationship result in response. For a second, I thought I heard spurs jingling somewhere...

WATER ~ This weekend's message is designed for two groups of people (in this order):
1. People who are not Christ-followers. We are going to address some of the most prevalent challenges to the Christian faith.
2. People who are Christians. We're asking everyone who goes by the name of Christ to engage and invite someone you know this weekend who doesn't yet know how extravagantly God loves them. Pick them up, buy them some Starbucks, take them to lunch...do whatever works to introduce them to Christ.

My message is entitled "Water" and will kindof wrap up the series Overflow that we've been in. I'm praying for 5 people right now that I know are coming who don't know Christ that have been invited. God is going to use our faithfulness to Him in a powerful way this weekend and beyond.

Just a reminder: There is nothing more spiritually mature than pointing someone toward the love of God in Christ. Nothing. And we get to do that. Thank you in advance for being the kind of church that cares about people like you do.

Also, be praying for our Women's Retreat "Destination Retreat". Over 170 women are gathering at Horseshoe Bend this weekend for an incredible time of rest, fun, food, and challenge. Teri Brown and her team have done an incredible job of preparing for God to move in a big way out there.

And, now, Sabbath. Take care.