When my
grandfather, R.W. Pruitt, was pastor of the Avon United Methodist Church,
he recruited his own Kiwanis Club to sponsor a teen spiritual roots and
growth program he entitled the "Full Life Foundation." This phrase, as you
may know, is taken from John 10:10 (my favorite verse): "I have come that
they may have life in all its fullness." As we conclude the Lenten Season
and anticipate the celebration of Resurrection Sunday (Easter), this is
certainly a good theme to review.
Three characteristics of
Abundant/Full/Resurrection living should always be a part of each one of us.
Abundant Living is daily, difficult, and dynamic. To continue our daily
journey with the risen Christ, we must be involved with him on a daily basis.
Especially as we reflect on His involvement with us. Someone has said that
Christians are "either gaining ground or losing ground, but can never stand
still." No matter how much I may desire the "perfect time" when my life is in
order and no further changes are needed, I know that it will never happen in
my current lifespan on earth. In order to prepare and focus my contact with
Christ each day and to grow in him, I find Biblical study, prayer, and a
daily guide (currently "Each Day A New Beginning") necessary in order to
gain and not lose ground.
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The Christian
life is not always an easy life. Personal standards and commitments don't
match those of the general society in which you live. Some days it seems the
day's events bring more pain than promise. However, we must always remember
that the new life we have received in Christ was secured in a very difficult
manner, death on a cross. When I came, I said two of my priorities were
"Prompt" and "Prepared." As some of our church leaders can testify - I'm
still working on that. Some gains have been made, but much remains to
change. A very difficult change for me, but empowered by the love of a risen
Christ for me.
Finally, the Christian life is a dynamic life.
There is always give and take, ebb and flow. But at its root it is even more.
In the Gospel of Mark, the Greek word for power is the root for the English
word, dynamite. As Christians we must constantly remind ourselves that we
are called to live beyond our own power and resources. The "dynamite" that
is ours in Christ's love for us is what makes the difference.
Christ is Risen, Indeed!!
In Him,
--Pastor Bill
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