From the desk of Pastor Jim

Paul writes one of the boldest sentences in Scripture in Philippians 1:21: “For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain.”

Most of us might add, “Yes, Paul, but I would still like to keep living for quite a while, thank you very much!” We have people to love, things to do, places to go, and perhaps a few church dinners we haven't eaten yet!

But Paul's words are not gloomy. They are wonderfully hopeful. Paul realizes that because he belongs to Jesus, he cannot lose. If he lives, he gets to serve Christ. When his earthly life ends, he will be with Christ.

In the meantime, Paul says we should live lives “worthy of the gospel of Christ.” That doesn't mean being perfect. Thank goodness! It means allowing God's grace to shape the way we live.

We live like Jesus when we encourage someone who is discouraged, forgive someone who has hurt us, welcome someone who feels left out, visit someone who is lonely, help a neighbor, or simply listen when someone needs to talk.

Most Christian ministry happens in wonderfully ordinary ways.

This week, try beginning each morning with a simple prayer:

“Jesus, help someone see your love through me today.”

Then pay attention. God may give you an opportunity when you least expect it.

You might discover that living for Christ isn't just something that happens inside the church building. It happens at the grocery store, around the kitchen table, on the telephone, in the doctor's waiting room, across the backyard fence, and everywhere else God sends us.

So whatever this week brings, remember: God is with you, Christ is beside you, and God's grace is still working in you.

Live joyfully. Love generously. Serve faithfully.

And if somebody sees a little bit of Jesus in you along the way, I'd say that's a pretty good day.

Grace and peace,

Pastor Jim