October 27, 2010

10-27-10 Wednesday, 7:45 am Indiana, near Louisville Ky., 60 degrees, pre-sunrise dawn.

I am in route to Asbury Seminary where we will meet as an alumni board, beginning at 1:00 this afternoon. I have served on this group under various names since 2003 when it was called the Alumni Leadership Team. I look forward to what lies ahead today, especially the fellowship with other alums from around the country, under the leadership of Tom Harrison.

Titus 2
The Apostle Paul guides Titus in his ministry to older men and women, and in turn the influence on younger men and women. Verse 12 is a culmination of this teaching: “We’re being shown how to turn our backs on a godless, indulgent life, and how to take on a God-filled, God-honoring life.” This morning actor Charlie Sheen is in the news for a drunken rampage in a New York hotel, illustrative of a godless, indulgent life. This current generation is increasingly godless and indulgent. Thus, the contrast of a God-filled, God-honoring life provides a witness and a source of hope for those trapped in the downward spiral.

Paul’s conclusion in this chapter to Titus is “Tell them all this. (That Christ offered himself as a sacrifice to free us from a dark, rebellious life into this good, pure life, making us a people he can be proud of, energetic in goodness, verse 14.) Build up their courage, and discipline them if they get out of line. You’re in charge. Don’t let anyone put you down.” These are strong words to this younger, organizing pastor on Crete, who is responsible for appointing leaders throughout the region for the new and growing church.

Guide me today in this good, pure life, make me energetic in goodness, a person You can be proud of as I travel, meet, and serve on this team of leaders. Help me to be a leader who inspires others to action, taking on lives filled with your love and your spirit.