Hope for a better world

In church today, the story was about Peter, when he and the disciples were out fishing and not catching anything, and Jesus called out to them over the water and told them to throw the nets on the other side. After they had come back ashore and Jesus was fixing breakfast, he asked Peter: Do you love me? Three times. We all know the story. Our pastor, Sarah Shelton, pointed out that Jesus did not point the finger, did not try to make Peter feel guilty about his previous betrayals. He just offered him the opportunity for redemption, the chance to make it right by avowing his love for Christ 3 times.

These three avowals of love were followed by the command to "Feed My Sheep" -- don't just say you love me, put it into action. Thanks to all of you who take that command to heart, and demonstrate God's love in the world you inhabit; even on the days (especially on the days?) when you don't realize that that's what you're doing.

This afternoon, at 2:30, there will be a CROP walk to help eradicate hunger here in Birmingham, Alabama. The Birmingham chapter of ONE.org will be participating, as well as several friends of mine. If you're in this neck of the woods, come check it out. If not, keep the walkers in your prayers, and the people for whom they are raising money.

The image above is of the cross in Rick Dill's church in Weimar, Germany. The church had about 7 or 12 members when he arrived, and it's now grown to over 150. The cross, made by a local artist, consists entirely of discarded and found materials, because Christ takes that which is old and discarded, and seems to be of no use, and brings it together to create new life and new purpose.

Blessings and Peace...

And to TexasInAfrica --- thanks for the reminder of the blessings brought by luminous friends, who are sometimes with us an all-too-short time. And thanks for being one of the people who brings light and joy and tears and LIFE to my life and to all those around you. You make such a difference and I cherish your friendship.