July 21, 2007

KEEPING PERSPECTIVE

Becky and I just spent the day visiting with old college friends enjoying BBQ and fellowship on a scenic lake front. The weather was perfect, sunny and a calm breeze. My friend Martin let Josiah and I take his kayak for a spin. Josiah played captain as he frequently directed me what island or boat he wanted to get close to. What was different about this kayak then any other I had been in was that there was a pedal for the right and left foot that controlled a rudder. I felt like such a slave to it after a while, constantly pushing one or the other trying to get us going straight. As we pulled up on shore I asked Martin, "The rudder was a battle to keep it straight." He replied, "You have to stop thinking about the rudder and the pedal, you will drive yourself crazy trying to keep it straight. Fix your eyes on where you want to go, and go!"

What a great lesson, as I think of us going to Argentina. We need to remember why we are going and who we are serving, and not get caught up in pushing pedals. If I was told while I was a college student that for a year and a half God would use Becky and I to get churches excited about missions and challenge saints in New England with the Word of God, and teach Bible studies during the week, what an exciting opportunity!!

The things of this world can certainly change our perspective on where we are in life and keep us from being effective for Christ. Colossians 3:1-2 remind us "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth." With our affection set on Christ, our eyes fixed on Him, we can travel straight.



Here where we have been and where we are going next:
July 8th - Free Baptist Church, Waterboro ME
July 9-13 - Vacation Bible School, Fellowship Bible Church, Chester NH
July 15 - Church of the Open Bible, Burlington MA
July 22- Lighthouse Baptist Church, Gardiner ME
July 29 - Community Christian Church, Cambridgeport VT