Cornerstone

Mk 10:13-(16)

We sat at the kitchen table trying to play a board game with our friends. I was mildly irritated. The annoyance had been gradually building throughout the evening. Their little child was insisting that she be included in the game. We knew that she could not comprehend the rules or the concept of the game. Her parents struggled with the task of excluding her from our fun. They were doing their best to not hurt her feelings while at the same time insisting that she play with toys that were designed for her age group.

In another setting there was annoyance as well. The task oriented disciples wanted to screen the visitors that came to Jesus. Now, parents were insisting that Jesus see their little children, touch them, and bless them. Just as the disciples were about to exert their self-ordained authority as “Jesus Protectors” the Master spoke to say that He WANTED the little children to come to Him. In fact, He went on to say that unless we come to Him in the transparency and weakness of a little child we cannot have a relationship with Him. We strive for sophistication and strength when all along we need to realize our inadequacy and relinquish control of our lives to Him. We need to come to Jesus as “little children.”

Dr. Gayle Woods

Isa. 62:6-9 (9) “But they that have gathered it shall eat it, and praise the Lord…”

I was interested to hear a friend tell how he escaped from bankruptcy. Before this difficult time, his house and 20 acres seemed to be rather insignificant. While he was going through the time, however, these possessions seemed to be rather valuable. More valuable than this was his reputation and his Christian testimony. Because of this he decided NOT to declare bankruptcy unless it became absolutely necessary. He would trust God. His creditors agreed to adjust his payments so they were more manageable. My friend then began to diligently work at the task of paying back a very large debt.

The times were difficult. The family had little extra and no luxuries. At times they wondered how they would make their monthly payments. Even through the times of sacrifice and struggle the Lord always provided. The money that was needed always came in time. At times the supply from God was unexpected and unusual.

This experience he stated, helped strengthen his faith in God, his children’s faith in him and in God, and the community’s appreciation for his Christian life. All this was made possible through the provision of God and because of His faith in God.

Dr. Gayle Woods