Influence

Jesus told His followers that we were "the salt of the earth" and "the light of the world." We will be studying these two illustrations of influence on Sept. 26 and Oct. 3.

In my research on "influence" I ran across this clip. It makes me smile when I see it - and it's a great illustration on influence. Question: What kind of influence are you having today?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GA8z7f7a2Pk&feature=player_embedded

Blessed are the Persecuted?? Really??

Yes, really! At least, that's how Jesus concludes His teachings that we commonly call "The Beatitudes." Here's a taste of what we'll be talking about this Sunday, Sept. 19, at Open Door.

Persecution is simply the clash between two irreconcilable value-systems. Christ-followers are not like everyone else with a slight difference, they are essentially different. Therefore, persecution will come. Jesus wasn't persecuted because He was good - He was persecuted because He was different.

I look forward to seeing you Sunday as we look at this last Beatitude. If you can't make it, check out the "Audio and Video" link on our home page to watch the sermon and download the notes.

Blessed are the peacemakers

Many of you will remember when the word "peace" was used as a way of saying "goodbye." Occasionally one of my Chaplain colleagues will say "peace" when I start my shift at the hospital. I like that! "Peace" on the job is a good thing! "Peace" in life is a good thing!

Jesus said, "Blessed are the peacemakers." Since I enjoy having peace in my life, I want to help others find that peace, too. But how can I be a "peacemaker"? That's what we'll be looking at Sunday, Sept. 12, at Open Door.

Perhaps one day we'll look at why I use so many "quotation marks" in my writing!!