Beach Bound

After I get through preaching tomorrow's service...we will run home, put on some shorts and flip flops, throw a couple of suitcases in the car and head to the beach for a long awaited vacation. The awesome thing about a beach vacation (at least if you go with me) is that you don't have to worry about what clothes to pack. I mean afterall shorts, t shirts, flip flops work anywhere in a beach town. Awesome! You don't have to worry about your schedule. I looked at my day planner for next week and the only things it says is BEACH, Monday through Friday. WOW! I could go on, but I think you get my drift. So, here is the deal...

I was thinking that our relationship with the Lord should look alot like a beach vacation. You see, He is not concerned with our clothes or our outward appearance, but rather with our heart. And, while we get real concerned about all of today's appointments and what we have to do tomorrow, He is asking us to enjoy the "now" moment. "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:34

Man makes religion a difficult thing with alot of stress and worry. First, we have to stress about being sure that we are all put together right on the outside, so we can make a good "first impression" on the Lord. Then, we have to worry about being able to keep all of the rules and doing things just right. One man actually told a friend of mine upon entering his church, "Sir, if you are serious about living for God..then Welcome to our church but if you aren't sure you are ready to live a holy life, then don't waste our time." Oh my Goodness, what a welcome! You have got to be kidding!

Jesus invites us to come to Him and enjoy Him. He doesn't want us to worry about coming to Him nor stressing over how to do that "just right". No, He says, "come to me, chill out, and rest." If only church could be like that??? We decided some time back that it could and so we are enjoying God's presence. Don't tell anybody, but we even have people worshipping God in flip flops! Pray for us!

My entire outlook has changed since I learned that Jesus' invitation was one to enjoy Him, chill out, rest, and to make life less difficult. My new motto is, "If it ain't easy, then it ain't God." If you can't make it easy enough for a small child, then forget it. It's not worth worrying with." So enjoy the following scripture and allow God to change your outlook. It makes life so much more enjoyable. Got to run...Need to pack my shorts and flip flops.

"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. ²⁹Walk with me and work with me--watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. ³⁰Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly." Matthew 11; 28-30 (Message Bible)