January 13, 2011

1-13-11 Thursday, 5:48 am Springfield, 1 degree, calm, clear.

We had a great new member class last night. We struggled with the technology of the video on the history of Wesley, but finally got a dvd on a tv to work. Our executive leadership team met yesterday for the first time this year and considered several items that will impact the ministries of the church in 2011. I sat in on a webinar put on by the coach training organization “Internal impact” on maximizing your strengths. It was well presented, and the technology worked both on the “go to meeting” software, and the telephone conference call.

I will deviate from the One Year Bible today and begin reading Isaiah, along with John Oswalt’s two-volume commentary.

Isaiah 1
This first chapter of the prophet’s book is an introduction and an indictment. The people chosen by God have ignored Him, going through the motions of a religious life, but not recognizing that God is real and present. “An ox knows its owner, and a donkey its master’s manger, but Israel does not know, my people do not understand.” (verse 3) I grew up in a faith community that essentially practiced “rote religion” and did not know or understand God. This is a continual challenge for the people of God, to truly know the Lord, and guard against just going through the motions.

On Sunday, we will experience a day of prayer, led by Sherry Habben. My hope is that this will be a true experience of responding to God, and experiencing His power, love, and real presence. Guide me today Lord as I live in your presence, pursuing your will and purposes through your bride the Church.