Changing Directions

It was really a neat sight to see all the schoolchildren lined up several deep along the fence at Valparaiso Elementary, all the cars lining the parking lot across the street, and people up and down Hwy 190 awaiting the visit of President Bush.

Today's paper carried the route in it's entirety, and so we were sure we'd get at least a glimpse.

But the presidential motorcade changed direction at the last minute, and we missed out. That's a shame.

Later this week, another big name may be headed our way - Hurricane Bonnie (with Charley not far behind). If she changed directions, no one here would mind at all.

Now in the first case, I could have moved to the route the motorcade took. There's only so many ways into Niceville. In the second case, I could vacate the area in advance of the hurricane's visit. I've got choices.

Just as my choices only matter prior to the president's or the hurricane's arrival, it's the choices you and I make today and tomorrow that will matter before Christ returns. We don't know the day or the hour he's coming either.

So how do we prepare?

Hebrews 10:23-25 (Msg)
Let's keep a firm grip on the promises that keep us going. He always keeps his word. [24] Let's see how inventive we can be in encouraging love and helping out, [25] not avoiding worshiping together as some do but spurring each other on, especially as we see the big Day approaching.

We hold onto His promises and find new ways to reach people with the love of God that is so special to us. And we are to spur each other on to greater service for God than ever before.

Why would anyone do that? Out of love for God and love for people.

We don't want anyone who's willing to make a choice to change directions from missing Christ's arrival in their lives.

Grace!

David

This devotional is written by David Wilson, pastor of New Hope Baptist church in Valparaiso, FL. If you find you have received this via a forward and would like to receive it regularly, or find you no longer wish to receive it, drop me an email at dwilsonfl@earthlink.net and I'll make the change to the list. If you'd like to know more about New Hope, visit our website at www.newhopevalp.org . May God bless you.