Being vs Doing

Anyone who knows me is aware of my struggle to "get off the treadmill".  Getting off the treadmill is my way of combating the "Get it done" trap that I easily fall into.  My day usually starts out with a walk, then a jog and before I know it, I'm sprinting through my to-do-list and even though I may be tempted to push the panic (stop) button, I can't for fear that I won't finish.  On top of that, I can also allow the expectations of others, or many of my own expectations, to increase the speed...to move faster!  This mode is not only exhausting and stressful, it creates an independence from God, who came to give me abundant life and a freedom from performance-based approval.

We all have things on our "to-do-lists" each day that need to get done.  We probably even have Jesus on that list, even if just a sliver of time with Him.  Sure, my list might get completed, but did Jesus get to complete the work He wanted to do in and through me.  Do we truly understand that he is in the middle of everyday stuff?  He wants us to interact with Him as we walk (or run) through our day.  No matter what the task or the conversation; He is present and whispering to get our attention, so that He can give us input and lead us!

John 10:4 says "After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice."

God wants to lead us.  How can He lead if I'm not listening because I am too busy doing for Him rather than being with Him?  It is such an encouragement when He gently reminds me in the middle of my "treadmill" mode that He is standing next to me, waiting for me to hit the stop button, asking me to take a deep breath and follow at His pace.

God is with us.  He is with us not only to be our help in time of need or bring us peace in difficulty, He is also with us to lead us and celebrate the victories.  Whether today brings troubling circumstances or great joy, remember Jesus is in the middle of it all.

I invite you to join us this Sunday at 9:30am as we continue to take a deep-dive into the life of Jonah.  Due to the continued unhealthy air quality, our service will once again be available online ONLY.

The Every Body Matters discipleship class with Larry Annes is also cancelled for this Sunday.

To access this week's service, go to the church website (www.parksidefellowship.org) and then click either “Streaming on YouTube” or “Streaming on Facebook.”

Following the service, consider joining us for our Parkside "after-church" zoom gathering that begins at 11:00am

Note:  Please use the following link to join the zoom gathering.  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83826986555
 
So, don't forget to join us this Sunday, September 20th for our on-line worship service via YouTube, beginning at 9:30am.  Be sure and pass this information along to those you know who do not have internet access.  Thanks.

Stay safe and know that you are being prayed for.

Pastor Doug