Its Not About Me

This past Sunday was Mothers day and like most churches we recognized all of the ladies in attendance. This year the children handed out long-stem roses to their moms, some of whom ended up with 2 or more roses because 1) each of their children brought them one, and/or 2) their one child kept coming back to the flower basket for more, not to take to other ladies, but to take back to their mom. It was funny, and thankfully all of the ladies were duly recognized and went home with at least one rose (I think).

Anyway, the service progressed and as the musicians were playing during the offering, suddenly the power went out. Our worship leader, Brad, mentioned that his song was accompanied on cd and said that without power he could not sing the song. So, after the music ended, I went to the platform and began to preach with the doors open and emergency lights on. Now, earlier in the service I had prayed that God would make his voice heard; that regardless of what people thought of me, they might think rightly of Him. In the words of John the Baptist, "He must increase; I must decrease." So I preached and the people listened.

Honestly, I did not feel real good about my delivery of the message. I felt like I fumbled and bumbled my way through it; however, God answered my prayer. In talking with several people afterward, it was apparent that his voice was heard and his message was received. Thank you, Lord, for reminding me once again of the all-important truth, "Its not about me!"

Before the conclusion of the sermon power was restored. Our service ended with Brad singing a wonderful song about God's love for us as seen through the cross of Jesus. Another great day in worship of and service to our great God!