Junk Or Treasure?

 Hello Church,

If you haven't heard, the church building is full of junk.... or is it treasure?  In any case, we are having our biggest Yard Sale ever!  And there is a lot of stuff.  The top floor is filled with clothes and shoes.  The lobby is filled with furniture.  The basement is filled with... well... .everything else....this Thursday, Friday, Saturday, starting at 9:00.

Are you into yard/garage sales?  I know some people live for it.  Indeed, I know a few that claim they truly have found some treasures that people never knew they had stored in their attic or basement.... antiques furniture, rare jewelry, baseball cards, coins, etc;  However, you have to be willing to commit yourself to looking hard.  You also need to know what you are looking for.

Finding glimpses of God's work in our lives can be similar.  There is a lot of junk in our days, especially these days.  People can be mean.  And when you see it day after day, in-person or in the media, it can get to you after a while.  I know I have moments when I get a little angry at the world.  Why the hate?

You can find God, however.  You may have to be willing to commit yourself to looking hard.  You also need to know what your are looking for.  For instance, you are unlikely to find it on CNN or FOX.  You may not see God in the media at all, though there are those rare feel-good stories that the local channels air.  ESPN also runs a powerful series called E60.  

Usually, however, you need to find God without the media.  Why?  Because sometimes God is too subtle for a good news story.... and hate always gets better ratings.  For example, we aren't hearing anything about all the sacrifice and effort people are putting into Louisiana and the clean-up after hurricane Laura.  

I encourage you to look hard for God.  Find those instances when love is shown or grace is given.  Look for the moments of forgiveness or listen for the words of hope.  They are out there.  I see and hear them every day.  I just have to remember to look for them.

Find the treasures in the midst of the junk.

God is Good,

Pastor Joe