Hi "fellow travelers". I am at a conference in Maryland. So, I asked Cyndi Rhoads to post for me this Sunday and next Sunday. What a blessing! cathy
As I sat
this morning and listened to Pastor Dale’s continuing message on the Inn at
Jericho Road, my heart was touched by the phrase “the joy of serving.” I was so impressed by the truth that this joy
comes from seeing God glorified. When I
choose to take advantage of the opportunities He has put in my path, I get to
be like that Good Samaritan. Even more,
I come to be more like Jesus for Jesus came as servant of all. He chose
to take the humble road, rather than the Kingly one He so richly deserved.
I was
challenged this morning when Pastor asked: Will we be the Samaritan on the road
to Jericho? Will I invite people in need or hurting, and bring them to the Inn
for help and healing? For the only way this can happen is if I find myself as a
servant in the Inn, or on the road open and seeking. This is going to require a sacrifice on my
part. I will have to deny that part of me that wants to remain comfortable,
safe, and unmindful of the lost and hurting around me. And yet, I know that I am called to “deny
myself, take up my cross, and follow Him” (Matt 16:24) For, as Pastor reminded
me this morning, love is an action word. Love serves.
Above and
beyond all the Lord has already given me in the way of His grace and mercy,
there is one more thing I long for. I long to hear Jesus’ sweet words of
welcome saying “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”
We all have
a Jericho road to travel. What will you do with the opportunities you are
given?
