Cold temperatures, snow, and no school two weeks ago. Cold temperatures, snow, sleet, ice, and more no school. Finally, an earthquake that measured 4.1 from Augusta to Atlanta. Facebook has gone crazy with the question, "What next?"
Oh, I can imagine what people are thinking; the end is near. Please forgive me if I don't get all upset and go and purchase my white robe (oh wait, I have one, but I'm not taking it to the cleaners). Yes, weird weather conditions (well, it is winter, and every so many years we in Georgia get hit with a snow or two). Yes, the interstates look like a scene from Walking Dead (how did they do that?). And let's not forget the most difficult sign, school shut down for several days. Surely the end is coming?!? NOT.
In my heart I hear the words of the writer of 1 Kings 19:12 and 13 - "And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire, and after the fire a still small voice. And it was so, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went out, and stood in the entering in of the cave. And, behold, there came a voice unto him, and said, What doest thou here, Elijah?"
Perhaps, just perhaps, this has been a time for us to come out of our caves and listen for the still small voice. I wonder if we haven't heard the voice of the Creator asking us, "What are you doing here, ___________ ? (insert your name here)"
Sometimes we need a break from the important work of the Lord (Church) and to be reminded it isn't always in the grand and glorious that the author of the Universe speaks or acts. Sometimes the Lord speaks to us in a still small voice to catch our full attention and to ask that very important question, "What are you doing here Dana? (insert your name here)"
What am I doing? You and I need times to stop our busyness and to consider what we are doing and for whom are we doing it and will it be that which brings glory and honor to our Triune God.
I am not worried about the end times. When they come Jesus Christ will be leading the way, and all will be well. I am grateful for times where I'm forced to stop what I am doing and answer the question of our God.
God is with us, and God is for us. God has called us for this season and will not leave us. We can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens us. I believe we can make use of these times to reflect, remember, answer, and come out of our caves to live for Christ and Him alone.
Some say that because of the recent events there will more in church on Sunday. I hope that is the case, and they will be able to answer the question, "What are you doing here?" and see God's hand upon this moment and return to hear your heart and the words of your heart that come from the One who still speaks to all in a still small voice.
What are you doing here?
Dana
Another wonderfully full day yesterday in the district as I preached at New Hope and led them in a discussion regarding the future. I'm grateful for open minds and hearts. The last Cell Group got off the ground and two SPRC meetings. God is good!