Jesus the Christ had a marvelous way of conveying deep spiritual truths by using stories and object lessons from the living world around Him. As we endeavor to draw people to the foot of the cross, let us enjoy this effective style of sharing by following His example.
Don’t let anyone look down on you for your youth: It really is a small world after all isn’t it? Most of you have come to know already that Gabriel is our outgoing, people-person while Ethan has to “warm up” to you a bit. Yet on Monday, things would be different. Ashley and the boys went to the YMCA for a little exercise when an older gentleman, Roy, came in to begin his routine. Ethan shed all of his apprehension for people and went to the stranger, asking to be picked up so Ethan could view the swimming pool through the window. But it didn’t stop there, Ethan next put his little hand in Roy’s and led him around the YMCA wherever the little child desired to go. Ashley said the sweetness of the moment was just perfect watching this adorable child leading this 6 foot plus elder in his 70’s. She hoped to see Roy again.
Monday evening I went to an arts council meeting where I made a great connection with a nice elder gentleman who would invite me to play tennis with his group on Thursday evening. When fifth day of the week came around, I was itching to put my nylon strings on a fuzzy yellow tennis ball. Ashley and the boys came to watch, and as I greeted my elder tennis inviter on the courts he finally put two and two together. Roy grinned a huge boyish smile knowing something special had happened. He confessed to me that my family had made a special difference in his week. He came into the YMCA on Monday downcast, even depressed for various reasons, when a young boy in all of his tender sweetness brightened his mood by sharing a little love. Hand in hand Roy’s mood elevated with each step they would take together. It changed the outlook of his entire week which led to other meetings between Roy and my family. On the tennis courts, Roy took a little extra time to play with Ethan.
1 Timothy 4:12 “Don’t let anyone look down on you for your age. Instead, make your speech, behavior, love, faith, and purity an example for other believers.”
If Ethan can do it, I know we can too. No matter what age you are, may you shine for others this week in such a way as to make a difference in the lives, bringing them hand-in-hand closer to our Father.
Christopher’s topics of study for this week
Open communication is a great way for us all to share and grow together. Letting you know what I’m studying in the office is a great way for you to share in prayer and study with me to improve the effectiveness of our church.
Preaching, Fred Craddock – Qualities to be sought in a sermon: Memorizing
The Family Friendly Church, Ben Freudenburg – Quantity vs. Quality Events
Christian Counseling, Gary Collins – Anger Management
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