… and the encouragement I offer heading into this week is a call to connectedness.  To keep it simple, I offer these three suggestions.

One, consider your connection to God.  In the Lord’s prayer, Jesus teaches us to address our Father, who is in Heaven, as the Holy One who reigns and who’s will we seek.  The confidence we have as children of God must be acknowledged if it is to be realized.  In acknowledging “Our Father” we humbly receive His provisions and seek forgiveness for our sins.  Neglect of this connection leads to unwarranted worry and unnecessary doubt.

Two, consider your connection to the people closest to you.  How’s your love tank?  Are you running low on fuel?  Make a deposit… a kind word or small gesture may be all it takes to replenish that account.  Or perhaps an apology or a confession of wrong-doing will turn the relationship around.  The health of our relationships with those closest to us can greatly influence the outcome of our day’s labor.

Three, consider your connection to the people you will encounter in your day.  I am blessed to be a blessing… so, how will I bless others as I go about my business today?  For me, it means being aware of my Christian faith, that Jesus has saved me and sent me out to be a messenger of His love and grace.  In my security, I am able to be fully present with and for the people I encounter today.  I am a servant of Christ, so I will be fully available to alleviate suffering, show compassion and exercise wisdom in the work that I do.

Finally, be sure to keep it simple and keep it light… that is to be free from the paralysis of analysis, and to liberally employ the use of laughter.  You know I write these things to you so that I might practice what I preach in the hopes of having a better week!

For His glory,

Pastor Mike