If You're Happy

Matthew 6:16 when you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faes to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. Do you have colleagues who consistently walk around looking peeved or they would rather be elsewhere? What's going on that they cannot even smile or be pleasant? Perhaps, the weight of the world is on their shoulders. Perhaps this is just a paycheck. Equally, some colleagues seem above saying, "hello". How are we do approach these situations to glorify God and edify the body? Do you try to engage with them to bring about change? We all play a part. But do remember how you project to the world during the day, let alone, when and if you fast. Fasting does not necessarily mean abstaining from food either, but different topic.

It is all Relative

How are you feeling? Did you see the speech? You know, the speech? Yes, but as inspiring as words are, it is still alot of bad news out there. Millions losing their homes, millions looking for jobs that are not there, millions crossing into the poverty line, millions seeking help at charities and food pantries. People are hurting in our city, our country, and throughout the world. Wait a minute! Are we really hurting and without a safety net? Even if you have to cut back spending or rely on government assistance, is your lot not better than the 2 billion who live on less than $2 a day? Is your lot not better than those who suffer injustice and persecution for their faith, and are repressed by their governments or social system? Think about how blessed you are and how things are economically bad but not tragic. In hard times, we may look to a higher calling and purpose. Lift your head. Your Lord God is there.

James 5:13-15 Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray...Is anyone of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him...the Lord will raise him up.

Separate the Chaffe

The Season of Lent begins tomorrow. The period of time leading up to Easter (this year it is 46 days). How should we prepare our hearts for the season? Alot of people try to "give up" something or some things for the season. Please do take time now to consider shedding a practice that takes away from your relationship with God. Some may see this as a good time to exercise self-control and shed a personality trait (e.g., sarcasm, negativity, coarse joking, etc.) or an outward practice (e.g., sweets, salty snacks, coffee, soda, etc.). The idea is that we can start the process to possibly letting God cleanse us of a practice that may hinder our relationship with God. Now, some may say, 'what can a Kit Kat or Hershey's Kiss do to my walk with God?' and others may say, 'precisely'. It is a start.

Matthew 3:12 His winnowing fork is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clear His threshing floor; and He will gather His wheat into the barn, but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire."