Day 71

Scripture: Ps 50, 114, 115; Colossians 2:8-23; Luke 6:39-49


Scripture Standout: Luke 6: "⁴⁶ “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? ⁴⁷ As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. ⁴⁸ They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. ⁴⁹ But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.”


Morning thoughts: I know and love many people who don't have a faith, period. That is their life, their choice, their deal. But sometimes my heart gets heavy for them when life produces "torrents" that strikes their homes. I can hardly imagine how it feels for someone to think they have to figure it out, fix it and rebuild it all on their own and without guidance, support or affection. I have one friend who has been pelted with torrents for the past couple of years. She's standing outside her collapsed house still trying to figure out exactly how it happened and what she's going to do about it. That must feel like such a lonely, frustrating place!


On another note, Jacksonville has its first black mayor. Voters across the city voted this week to send a message of progress — and to defy a good ole boy appearance that defined this town in the 1960s and 1970s. I have no idea if our new mayor is going to fix our house, our Jacksonville. But I am astounded and grateful voters are giving him a chance to try.


A third note: All Saints' first Interfaith Forum is tonight. I am very excited about this, there has been warm community support for it.


Last note: This is Ashraf's last full day with a club foot. His surgery is tomorrow morning. Please pray for this very prayerful Muslim boy who is full of joy, respect, manners and gratitude.


The Deed/The Day: All deed efforts honed in on the Interfaith Forum at church. It went really well. Almost a full church — pews lined with worshippers of all flavors. It was a blessing.