Deadlines

I just received a notice from our own special child, Laura Gilligan, again.  She said “It’s Parish Visitor deadline-time again.”   I always look forward to writing for the Visitor, but it would be nice if I could remember it a little sooner. When I go back and read some of my old stuff,  I remind myself of a preacher; sorry Craig! 

 

I get emails from old friends that come in all sorts of categories.  Emails that ask you to forward them to “everyone you know” or “please keep this going” or “send this to 5 people”.   I like the delete button.  I get a lot of emails from one old military buddy in particular, but his are usually humorous.  Here’s one he sent about Americans that I thought was worth sharing.  He said it was written by Reverend Charles Swindoll.  

1% of Americans read the Bible more than once a day.

15% of American men say they do most of the cooking in the household.

30% of Americans smoke cigarettes.  (not sure if that one is still true)

42% of Americans cannot name a country near the Pacific Ocean.

67% of Americans believe files are being kept on them for unknown reasons.

70% of Americans own running shoes but don’t run.

84% of Americans believe heaven exists.

94% of American men would change something about their looks if they could.

96% of American children can identify Ronald McDonald.

99% of American women would change something about their looks if they could.

Four things that don’t come back are:  The spoken word;   the speeding arrow;   time past;  the neglected opportunity.  Time is short.  Opportunity is knocking.  Please answer it.  One hundred percent of those who do, find themselves blessed. 

 

During Lent we are reminded of the suffering that Jesus endured.  His death was imminent and He knew it.  It was for all of us.  He had a deadline.  Yet He went ahead with every opportunity, not forgetting what He faced, to spread the Word to all who would listen.  It’s not something most people want to do; go around being a “Bible-banger”.   Most of us are just not equipped to mentally handle that.  There are other ways though.  We can invite neighbors, friends or acquaintances to our church without too much anguish.   The church should not come before Christ, but you can put the “inviting bee” in your own bonnet.  Think about or imagine talking to someone you’ve met and ask if they’d like to join you at a soup supper or any number of  functions we have at St. Peter’s. 

 

Easter is my favorite holiday.  It brings our deliverance to the forefront.  Celebration of the Resurrection means we’re with Christ and Christ is with us.  We aren’t burdened by the social stigmas that Christmas brings. The Easter music, lillies, the feeling of a renewed life and salvation (and warmer weather) give a feeling of freshness. 

 

Next month I’ll probably forget the Visitor again and will again get a notice from Laura.  But there is a silver lining to my forgetfulness.  Now I can hide my own Easter eggs and not know where I put them.

Peace through Christ,

Gary Heil 

 

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