2/5/12

Sideways faith


I wonder if this happens very often?  I doubt it, because I have never seen horizontal lightening before!  If you would have told me yesterday that such a thing existed, I might have been a little skeptical, but I may just have accepted it as fact.  We accept many things that we don't understand on a daily basis, like how your TV, computer or automobile works.  We take for granted that when we turn the key in the ignition of our car it won't explode, or when we step into an elevator it won't go directly to the basement at the speed of light.  So, why is it so hard for people to believe in Jesus?  Here is one example...

WEB: John Chapter 20

[26] After eight days again his disciples were inside, and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, the doors being locked, and stood in the midst, and said, "“Peace be to you.”" [27] Then he said to Thomas, "“Reach here your finger, and see my hands. Reach here your hand, and put it into my side. Don’t be unbelieving, but believing.”"

[28] Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!”

[29] Jesus said to him, "“Because you have seen me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen, and have believed.”"

[30] Therefore Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book; [31] but these are written, that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in his name.

Thomas was with Jesus for two years; you think he would have been farther along in the faith department than he was at this point.  But, obviously, he had some issues!!!  Its easy for us to marvel at his unbelief, but I wonder how advanced we really are in this department?  Can't answer that for you, but sometimes I am a little embarrassed to say I need a little work.  But, as times goes on, God teaches me things through his word and I actually get it!!!  And when I do; WOW!!!  I hope that the next time you see something new, you will remember this passage from the book of John and not be too hard on yourself.  God will understand; I know I do!!!!!

Challenges for a growing congregation by Mark Copeland

http://executableoutlines.com/top/challeng.htm


Life is full of challenges; why should the church be different? ... Gary