Issue link: https://cp.revolio.com/i/1518281
What Have You Done with Easter? Tom & Dee Sanchez, Chaplain's Corner #22 What's the phrase we heard as kids about April? April showers bring May flowers? Or something like that. Hopefully, you're not experiencing a lot of rain so you can ride this month! I know we need the rain, but I'd prefer it not to be when I've got a ride planned or am already out on the bike. Now that it's April, I expect that we have spent time reflecting on the suffering and death of Christ on the cross for something we did. As Christ-followers and disciples, I'm sure we celebrated the resurrection and redemption that came with it as well as the renewed relationship with the Father, the forgiveness of wrongdoings, and peace that passes all understanding. But what about our non-Christian riding buddies? This time of year brings several opportunities. Some of these folks may have attended a church service at Easter due to the influence of their moms or grandparents growing up. Or maybe they acknowledge the "Big Man Upstairs" and know He did something but don't have any more interest or information on what that's about. The key is that often around this time of year, people who don't normally think about God are open to Him, even if just a little. So the question is…what have you done or are you doing about Easter and this possible openness to the things of God? Are your spiritual antennae tuned in to sense when someone turns the conversation to something spiritual? In his book, God Space, Doug Pollock says we need to "notice our ways into spiritual conversations." Instead of forcing the discussion on someone who is not interested, we need to be aware of when they bring up the topic and cultivate that into an opportunity to share God's message. "It's easy to miss something you're not really looking for." So, are you looking? Have you put on your "Jesus Glasses" to see the world the way He does? Pollock points out that noticing leads to caring. I believe we care for those we minister to, but sometimes we get distracted, complacent, or unobservant and miss those openings. So, let's take this time and focus. Focus on Jesus and what He has done. Consider how this impacts us, and how we can serve those around us. Remember that listening is key. Asking good questions will create great opportunities for listening. And when that God Space is created, be prepared for people to share their hearts. Pray for the people around you and for those with whom you'll interact. Pray you'll have eyes to see the chances before you and the willingness to seize those occasions to do what God wills. God Bless! a Another good reason for helmets