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As the years go by, the more I preach and the older I get, the more I am learning about myself. Sunday afternoons and often times Monday's are a time of reflection. Many Pastors take off on Monday, but I've found that it helps to do something with my hands as it gives my head something else to focus on. Following most Sunday's "Amen" the process of evaluating the sermon, thinking through the quick hallway counseling session, the missed introduction to the first time visitor, etc. begins nearly immediately. I had to leave pretty quickly after service to join our friends over at Camden Point Baptist Church for an Ordination Council as they welcome their new Pastor. That 20 minute drive solidified something for me; my spiritual gift is hindsight! 

I know... what began with serious tone ended with a joke. In all seriousness, I was reflecting on the sermon as I set out north and it dawned on me that I often do something in my preaching. I will often point out the glaring issues, in context of yesterday's sermon it was the unbelief of the Chief Priests and elders in the Temple, but fail to sometimes draw that line to us! I referenced the the Prophet Nathan and his bravery for calling out David in his sin delivering that famous line, "You are the man!" 

It almost comes too easy for us to see and point out the sin in others but let us be reminded this day that if it were not for the grace of God we would stand condemned in our unbelief like those that Jesus calls out in Matthew 21. Don't forget, "You are the man!" If you need it printed on a mug feel free to use the mock up I have provided fo you here. As I exercise my spiritual gift I want to be sure to emphasize that. The Lord has been gracious to us! 

“Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel." -2 Timothy‬ ‭1‬:‭8‬-‭10‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Graciously yours in Christ, 

-Pastor Ricky