August 13, 2011

8-13-11 Saturday, 7:46 am Springfield, clear and 64 delightful degrees.

It is a beautiful morning out today. The weather has been a “hot topic”, the source of much conversation as the heat wave was long, unbearable and unbroken. Now it seems to be moderating back to normal highs and lows for this time of year. The stock market also this week was hot, with dramatic swings up and down, fortunately ending the week a little lower, but having recovered from the steep decline of Monday, which followed the S and P downgrade of U.S. bond rating from AAA to AA+. The weather and the stock market are interesting, and I need to be careful not to allow these items to suck my attention away from the Kingdom of God.

Nehemiah 5:14 – 6

The walls get finished, and the enemies continue to plot against the Jews, and especially against Nehemiah, accusing him of planning a rebellion. He takes wise leadership action, displays courage and generosity. He feeds 150 people a day out of his own resources, not taxing the people as was his privilege to do as governor. The people follow him. He inspires confidence and hope for a different future.

Down through the centuries Nehemiah has been a great example of a Godly, faithful, wise leader. His story continues to speak to this generation. Guide me today and tomorrow most holy Lord as I seek to be your faithful servant, meeting with individuals, celebrating a wedding, preaching your word, casting vision to leaders and welcoming newcomers at the pastors’ coffee.