by Joanne Wiklund
April. Here it is, April Fool’s Day and Monday all at once. Double Whammy. I know a lot of people who weren’t really sure they would last through what we’ve been through this winter, weather and everything else. But I believe we’re still here because God has a plan for our lives and we have something left to do.
When our grandsons were in preschool, we did transport when necessary. We had so much fun in those days with those little guys. There was a circular driveway in front of the church, In one way, drop off or pick up, onward. A small white road sign had been installed on the right hand side of the driveway where you stopped before you drove onto the busy street. As you left the parking lot and turned right, there was that sign. “You are now entering the Mission Field.” I still love it. There was one at the left side of the drive, also.
What is our mission these days, those of us who love the Lord? Same as it’s always been. Go! Go ye therefore..” Now days we have so many ways we can go: air, car, computer, foot, telephone, ship, in the garden. Serving, showing how much we love the Lord. Taking a stand when we need to. So many people see Christians as people who should always give in, give out, or just be quiet. Keep the Peace. We know God loves Peacemakers.
We can forgive so many things. But sometimes we have to take a stand for Christ. Over 50 scriptures in the Bible have the word STAND in them. There’s an old Country Song titled “You’ve got to stand for something, or you’ll fall for anything.” HE AROSE! That’s what we stand for, and His Father and The Holy Spirit also stand for us.
2 Timothy 2:19 “Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, the Lord knoweth them that are His. And, let everyone that knoweth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.”
Philippians 4:1 “Therefore my brethren, dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord my dearly beloved.
Revelation 3:20 “Behold, I stand at the door and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.”
The church we attend here is Arizona has this sign posted at the exit when you are leaving the church. I read it every Sunday when we are pulling out of the parking lot and it really makes me think about what my mission will be in the coming week. I love having that reminder.