What matters ...

There was a bit that went through my mind looking at the readings (Scriptures) for today. In some way it is one of the dangers of routine, that one has to be careful that it doesn't merely become shallow and rote and following a pattern for the sake of doing just that. I do not want that I just follow a practice and loose the meaningful engagement of God speaking to me through His Living Word. So, it could have been, in seeking something to contemplate that I pick up on those verses from 2 John regarding the requirement that we love one another ... However, this is what stood out to me:

2 John 1:12 (New Living Translation)

Conclusion

12 I have much more to say to you,

but I don’t want to do it with paper and ink.

For I hope to visit you soon and talk with you face to face.

Then our joy will be complete.

2 John 1:12 (The Message)

12-13I have a lot more things to tell you,

but I'd rather not use paper and ink.

I hope to be there soon in person and have a heart-to-heart talk.

That will be far more satisfying to both you and me.

Everyone here in your sister congregation sends greetings.

My rationale. Because I truly believe "people" are important. I truly enjoy and look forward to spending time with people, face to face. Sharing together. Listening. Being listened to.

Sure we can communicate via other means, letters, emails, text, phone, facebook ... but there is still something about being with a person, especially if it is over a coffee (well my personal preference anyway).

For me this is about relationship. As together people invest, give of themselves to others. Share and care.

To me this is not only satisfying but also a privilege, so thank you to those whom I have spent time with, I appreciate you each, you add to my life considerably and I value you greatly.

It's about ...

"The goal of your ministry isn't to have the biggest church.

It isn't to have the most followers.

It isn't even to help the most people.

It's not about you.

It's all about God."

Rick Warren

 I read these words today and it was a stark reminder of how easy it is to be in ministry and yet focused on the wrong stuff. Some would become confused and ask, doesn't God want us to have large churches? Doesn't He want us to have more followers, to win more people to Him? Shouldn't we be concerned for reaching out to and helping more and more people who are struggling. Rick is reminding us that none of this replaces the need for us primarily to be focused on God.

We need to particularly be clear that it is not about us. It is not what I want, or desire or what I think is right. It is not about the denomination or the church. It's all about God. It's all about bringing Him glory. That is the top conviction we need to build our lives upon.

Have a look at this verse:

Romans 11:36 (New Living Translation)

36 For everything comes from him and exists by his power

and is intended for his glory. All glory to him forever! Amen.

Romans 11:36 (The Message)

Everything comes from him;

Everything happens through him;

Everything ends up in him.

Always glory! Always praise!

Yes. Yes. Yes.

Rick Warren reminds us, "everything on the planet and in the universe was created for God's glory - that includes you and your church."
 
We are also reminded:
 

Matthew 22:37-38 (New Living Translation)

37 Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart,

all your soul, and all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment.

It's not about seeking the approval of others. It's not about building something big. It's not about us saving people (that is Jesus doing). It's not about us. It is however, about God.
 
"Father, I want to build Your church. I desire to reach out in Your name and touch the lives of people affected by poverty and the ills of life. However, again I am reminded it must be about You. I can do nothing without You. My attention always needs to be upon You and bringing glory to You."