"WHAT'S YOUR PERSPECTIVE..."

I mentioned last week how much I enjoy watching the Olympics.  There are so many stories, events, and even "the births of legends" during these games.  A 16 year old young man and 17 year old young lady running in the relays.  Olivia Reeves, 21, a "homegrown" young lady from Chattanooga, won the Gold Medal in Weightlifting.  It is fun to watch and cheer on these hard working, disciplined athletes.  And I have to admit, I still tear up when I hear the Star Spangled Banner played at the award ceremony. 

One of my favorite observations, however, was during the Gold Medal match for Women's Beach Volleyball.  Some friction happened between Brazil and Canada during their match.  There was arguing and attitude being exchanged between the players.  In fact, the referee had to step in between the two.  As he sent the teams back to their positions, it happened.  Maybe the most iconic moment, at least for me, of the games.  As the players were separated after their heated exchange and headed back to their positions, the venue DJ began to play John Lennon's 1971 hit song "Imagine".   This soothing song that speaks of living with one another in peace. The crowd began to sing and the players began to laugh and smile.  Suddenly their perspective changed.  It was clear.  For you see, both of these teams are guaranteed an Olympic medal.  They have worked hard, are competitive, done their best, and now were at the pinnacle of their game.  They were already winners!  Olympic Champions!

Perspective is so important.  It really determines how we view, process, and even interact in life.  And in our world today there is a surplus of "influencers" affecting our perspective.  Think about it.   It may be a post on Facebook, or something on social media.  It may be a political view or candidate, especially right now.  It may even be a favorite commercial that makes you want something.  

Paul challenges us in Romans 12, the entire chapter (check it out), to have the proper perspective.  That of being like Christ.  And he gives specifics as well.  He begins this chapter saying:  

And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good  and pleasing and perfect.  ( Romans 12:1-2 New Living Translation) 

As Followers of Christ we should strive to have His perspective.  He always cared deeply for others.  Even and especially, for those who were often overlooked, ridiculed, avoided, weak, and even wicked.  He changed the ordinary to the extra-ordinary.  The spectacular.  And how?  He looked beyond the weakness, the negative, saw the value of the person, and loved them unconditionally.  And He changed lives doing so.  And what is so awesome...He Still Does!

So what's your perspective?  Is it one that causes people to want to be around you?  Are you a difference maker?  Can others experience Christ because of you?  Is your message one of hope, joy, peace, and most of all love?  We are called to be transformers of the world we live in.  We are to make a difference.  And in doing so we experience even the purest of worship to our Lord.  So, don't just 'imagine" a perspective.  Live, love, and transform.  Make a difference.  And the world will be better because of it...

Last Saturday Patti and I enjoyed having many of our children, their families, and leaders to our house for a wet and wild pizza party.  Ms. Patti and Ms. Teresa conquering the long, fast slip and slide was mind blowing.  And Mr. Matt's dominance with the water balloon activities was impressive.  Most impressive was the Ice Cream Sundae Masterpiece created by these young culinary artists.  (And it tasted great!). Definitely Olympic Gold standards on all accounts!  We have the best kids and leaders that there are!

This Sunday is our Potluck.  We are celebrating foods from around the World.  I hope you will plan to join us for this time of fun, food, and fellowship.  We will also begin taking pictures of our Church Family.  This will help us get to know one another better.  A special thank you in advance to Bobby Nesser for volunteering his skills to make this happen.  In Bible Study we will continue in Romans and in Worship our focus will continue on our study of Joseph's Journey.  This week we go from "Dysfunction to Destiny - Prison to Power!"  Please join us!  You really are greatly missed when you are not there.  And Always Remember...

You ARE Loved!  

Pastor Lonnie 

"More in '24"

(You can reach Pastor Lonnie by calling or text 615-496-2502 or send an email to lonniecastle@gmail.com)