Are the dark storm clouds gone yet?

As you look out of the window, do you see the “mass” of dark clouds through the skies. I see patches of dark blue, purplish cumulous clouds and this weather pattern is an appropriate metaphor for our nation as it stumbles through a major political, economic, and social transformation. People are confused and still anxious. What will this country be after we come out of the process. Have you read Brave New World lately. I personally think we are headed down that path. We are feeling mental, spiritual, and emotional darkness that is immobilizing us. Everyone I know is drained by the end of the day. My friends, family, and neighbors are just drained. I am sure yours are too…what to say? I say less to my wife and just listen more now. (That is a feat in itself). What do you say about this darkness? What will come after the clouds move in?

Luke 23:44-46 Around noon the sky turned dark and stayed that way until the middle of the afternoon. The sun stopped shining, and the curtain in the temple split down the middle. Jesus shouted, "Father, I put myself in your hands!" Then he died.
Luke 24:7 The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day, be raised again.

Death, resurrection, glory. Amen.

Unexpected Guest

We were about to eat dinner. The door bell rang. Hmmm, who would come by unannounced like that? Most likely a neighbor. But knowing how things work around here, I suspected it would most likely be: overly-enthusiastic religious hawkers or social service representatives. BINGO! I am batting .500 in baseball terms. I am sure you have some wonderfully effective yet gracious strategy for taking care of uninvited guests but think hard about this. Why are these people put in your daily life? No, not to inconvenience you or make you miserable. That is far too selfish. Short term interruptions or moments of meeting are rarely impactful but still, how you master and manage the "little things" and how you care for the "least of these" can reflect your overall walk in life. What would happen if Jesus came knocking at your door? Well, my guess is that he won't do so literally, but he does so daily in your hearts. Are u prepared? Do you live your life with an eye to his return at some unexpected time?

1 Thessalonians 5:4 But you, brothers, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief.