No Matter What

Good morning, Loved Ones,

There is much to be stressed, concerned and worried about these days; an environmental disaster of unprecedented proportions, a law enacted that targets our brothers and sisters who are economic refugees - a law 10 other states are seeking to replicate, continuing economic crises around the world. In the midst of such ominous news those of us who have been elected to see the world through eyes of faith must maintain the strength of relationships and trust in God and each other. The purpose of our election as faithful people is to be those who share a different vision of the world and share that vision with the world. The power of our witness depends not only on our relationship with God but also with our brothers and sisters.

1 Thessalonians 5:13-18 (The Message)

^13-15Get along among yourselves, each of you doing your part. Our counsel is that you warn the freeloaders to get a move on. Gently encourage the stragglers, and reach out for the exhausted, pulling them to their feet. Be patient with each person, attentive to individual needs. And be careful that when you get on each other's nerves you don't snap at each other. Look for the best in each other, and always do your best to bring it out.

^16-18Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live.

Today I give thanks for . . .

. . . brothers and sisters who warn me to get off my duff when work needs to be done.
. . . sisters and brothers who gently encourage me when I am straggling and exhausted.
. . . brothers and sisters who are patient and try to understand me.
. . . sisters and brothers who are careful with their words even when I am not.
. . . brothers and sisters who over the years have looked for the best in me and others and have sacrificed their own time and energy to bring it to the surface.

It takes faith to see beyond the crises. It takes a faith community to move beyond the crises. When you share your gratitude it builds up that community. Gimme cinco!

In the words of Pastor Alfonso we are not "juntos en crisis." (together in crisis) We are "juntos en Cristo." (together in Christ)

Pastor Rick
http://gimmecinco.blogspot.com/