July 3, 2011

7-3-11 Sunday, 5:28 am Springfield, 74 degrees, clear.

It is a beautiful morning outside. The sky is just starting to reveal the predawn light of the sun, the birds are singing, the air is relatively cool. I had a good night’s sleep and I am ready for the day. I am greatly anticipating this first Sunday of Matt Kerner’s appointment to Wesley, and the message he will bring today from Paul’s words to Timothy about mentoring.

We are beginning the process of developing a new church directory. Pictures will be taken beginning in August and running through October. It was three years ago that we did the last one, and I have it by my side to review and pray through in preparation for this morning’s ministry among the people of Wesley.

2 Kings 22-23; Psalm 1:1-6

Josiah reigned for 31 years in Jerusalem, and these two chapters describe the reforms he brought to the nation. It began with the renovation of the temple which uncovered “a book”. “And it came about when the king heard the words of the book of the law, that he tore his clothes.” (verse11) The following verses describe how the king ordered the destruction and defilement of the altars, idols, and worship of false gods and pagan beliefs. This culminated in the reinstitution of the Passover, which apparently had not been celebrated since the days of the judges (23:22).

As I read this account of reform and return to the faith of Yahweh as revealed to Moses, my mind inquires into this current day, and wonders if any practices have crept into the life of the church which should be discarded, and if there are any observances that have slipped out of practice. I am looking forward to the upcoming series on our Christian Family Tree to consider some of these questions.

Guide me today Lord as one seeking to follow you in Spirit and in Truth. Guard me from any religious buildup of false practices or from neglect of any essential practice or element of obedience to your Word. May this first Sunday in July be a glorious celebration of your Holiness, your sacrifice, your grace and your promises to the people of the Way.