John 12:24-26
“24 Very truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. 25 Those who love their life lose it, and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. 26 Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there will my servant be also. Whoever serves me, the Father will honor.” NRSV

This was not my sermon text this morning however, without it, I don’t think I could have preached! It has been a difficult week for me personally. About what? It doesn’t matter, it is personal. Let’s just say I was confronted with some of my own sinfulness (I know it will shock many of you that I am not perfect). Thank goodness for God’s faithfulness. This morning I had a choice; I could hold on to my attitudes and take them into the pulpit or follow the words of Jesus in John chapter 12:24-26 and die to myself. Thankfully I chose the latter. It has only taken me 2 years but I suspect it will now be a daily decision.

Last night I was at the church quite late. It was my turn to clean the church.  had a bit of time to think and pray. This week was so hard for me personally (not directly church related) I wondered what it would be like do something else. Maybe if I wasn’t a pastor I wouldn’t have to face this attitude (or maybe it wouldn’t feel so obvious). Nevertheless, as I vacuumed the church and prayed, I was grateful for the vocation gifted to me by God. There is nothing else in this life I would rather be doing in Jesus’ name. I am so very blessed to pastor the church I do. God is indeed faithful!

Finally, hopefully this week I will be able to post some more of my review of Dave Black’s “Why Four Gospels?” and I hope to ask for some advice on learning Greek.

Peace be with you,

Mark