This phrase appears in Lk. 15. The sinners pushed close to Jesus to hear him. I say pushed because I am sure at times it was a real challenge to get close. You ever been there?
Sometimes I think He is whispering to me and I just have to get closer. Yes, I can be hard of hearing! How about you?
I kind of wondered about that this past week. I have been a bit overwhelmed with all the “things” I “need to do.” Sometimes it can be a bit distressing as a pastor. So many things to do and so little time! But then, aren’t we all as followers of Jesus in spots like that.
As you have read, my friend Dutch passed away suddenly a few weeks ago. His death left a big hole in the Kairos that was going to be held at Wabash Valley Correctional Facility. It is an “Emmaus” retreat held at prisons. Dutch had a deep passion for both those communities. When the call for help went out I thought I heard the Lord pretty clear, “send me!” So I said yes. I don’t like last minute in anything if you know me. So it was a loud voice!
The next few days I really wrestled with it, the commitment, the time and all the things that needed to be done in the next two weeks all added to my pile of “to do’s.” But as I sat in the group meeting this Saturday it was pretty clear I had heard His voice and all would be well.
I called for help at church this morning for lots and lots of dozens of cookies. Chocolate Chip cookies are a big deal for a Kairos. I was really behind in getting my 100 dozen! So I asked and yes, lots of my folks at church are “chipping in” and will give some cookies in Jesus name. Bless you! Bless you!
I will be hand writing 42 notes to prisoners over the next two weeks. Praying for them and the team and giving myself to following Jesus in spite of my fleshly hesitance. Pray for me! Pray for our team.
I will give all the “other things” I could be doing and maybe should be doing for what I believe is a best choice. Friends do that for friends. Isn’t it great that Jesus calls us friend! Thanks to my friends for jumping and helping!
