One Way

I got in trouble about three weeks ago. Before Doreen went into surgery, I was doing the grocery shopping – alone - for the first time since we got married. The trouble I speak of was not the grocery shopping, although it was trouble enough. I had not been let loose in the grocery store for 41 years. Doreen does not think I am a discerning shopper. Meaning, I do not use coupons, grocery lists, or look for the best deal. If I want it, I buy it. Ok, I know that is not good, but that is why I delegate to the one who has the gift. I was told just the other day, you do not have to be good at everything. I am going with that.

No, the trouble I speak of was I WAS GOING DOWN THE AISLE THE WRONG WAY. Who ever heard of one-way traffic in grocery stores? With my grocery list in hand, complete with pictures of the products I was suppose to pick up, I was getting dirty looks, scowls, and stink eye from on coming pedestrian shoppers. I realized I am a novice in this food jungle, but I could not figure out the hostility. That is until I got to the end of the aisle. There on the floor my sin was clearly marked out for me. I was going the wrong way.

That is the way with many of us. We are happily going along on the “way of life” never realizing it might just be the “wrong way.”  There may even be signposts along the way, like broken relationships, depression, emotional dysfunction, obesity, financial chaos, unhealthy fears and incessant anxiety. The problem is that we do not see our discomfort as signs post, indicating we are on the wrong way of life. We are so used to it, we just think, this is as good as it gets.

Why not try something different. Jesus said, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6)

Jesus offers a transformed way to live. His way is different from what this world values - it is based on truth, and will produce life. Not just the mediocre, low brow living, just barely getting by type of life; but a life that is abundant, vibrant and eternal.

If you feel you are going the wrong way on the one-way aisle of life, take a look at Jesus. Reading the Gospel of John would be a good start. It just may change your life. Email me if you have questions.

This Sunday, Alex Rispoli, our newest staff member will be sharing the message on this very topic, Jesus as the way, the truth and the life. We will be live on Facebook again, and then on YouTube. Look forward to you joining with us.

Remember, if you are having any problems dealing with our present challenges please let us know. We are here for you.

Jim Reimer, Pastor

April 23, 2020