Setting the Table

One of the things I remember most from our previous mission trip to Washington, DC is the distinct dichotomy of power and poverty located within a few blocks of each other.  While our world is very complex, Jesus voice is clear and concise:  Love One Another.  This means we do not get to choose who sits at our table.  The kingdom vision welcomes guests who do not look or live like us.  

Our senior highs will be visiting Washington, D.C., next week.  Please be in prayer as we go to serve in places where Jesus calls us to set his table.

Throw open the shutter and throw out the trash

Tim Elmore (in his blog) reminded me of an old Italian tradition that is still practiced today. On New Year's Day, you open up the front door or window and throw out everything you want to get rid of from the past year.

While this may be a bit dramatic, I love the visual image of out with the old and in with the new. At the very least, it is a reminder that periodically we all must reflect, release and move forward.

I have never relied on New Year's resolutions to set my agenda for the coming year. For me, life is pretty simple. There are always things I can do better, ways I can care more, and generosity I can extend more. But the best thing I have going for me is my faith in Jesus Christ. When I live in that knowledge then nothing is about me and everything is about Him. So maybe I should throw everything out the front door and keep only my Bible and my Sabbath corner to praise God from whom all blessings flow each and every day.