The Buzzard:
If you put a buzzard in a small pen that is entirely open at the top, the bird, in spite of its ability to fly, will be a prisoner. The reason is that the buzzard always begins a flight from the ground with a run of 10 to 12 feet. Without space to run it will not even attempt to fly.

The Bat:
The ordinary bat that flies around at night--a remarkable nimble creature once it is in the air--cannot take off from a level place. If it is put on the floor or on flat ground, all it can do is shuffle around helplessly until it finds some slight elevation from which it can throw itself into the air. Then, all at once, it takes off like a flash.

The Bumblebee:
A bumblebee, if dropped into an open tumbler, will buzz around until it dies unless it is taken out. It never sees the means of escape at the top, but persists in trying to find some way out through the sides of the glass near the bottom. It will keep seeking a way out where there is no way until it completely destroys itself.

This little story came across my computer this week from my friend, Keith. Sometimes, friends, we can be a little bit like the buzzard, the bat and the bumblebee.

If, like the bumblebee, you ever feel like you have been buzzing and banging your head against the glass and going nowhere, just stop for a moment. Back up from your situation and consider a different perspective on things.

Instead of grumbling, "Why me, God?" ask this instead: "What do you want me to learn from this, God? What do I need to know about this person or this situation?" Or how about this question: "Who will I be in this situation?"

Maybe, by turning to God for answers, you can stop sabotaging yourself. Maybe the answer is in the opening at the top of the glass. Maybe you need to look up!

"I lift up my eyes to the hills--where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." 
Psalm 121:1-2

Sorrow looks back;
Worry looks around;
Faith looks up!

Bzzzzz.

Greg

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COMING UP

Sunday, July 1: Cirque du Soleil - Kooza
5:00 PM Sunday matinee under the Grand Chapiteau ( air-conditioned tent) at University of Phoenix Stadium. Tickets: $27.00 per person.
If you've never seen a Cirque de Soleil show, now is your chance to see one at a fraction of the cost. They are spectacular. This particular show combines two circus traditions - acrobatic performance and the art of clowning. The show highlights the physical demands of human performance in all its splendor and fragility. Call Bob at 623-326-9047 to get your tickets now. We have only 20 group tickets at a great discount, so first come - first served. A great mid-summer break!

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ON-GOING 

DivorceCare: Wednesday Evenings, 6:30 PM
Community Church of Joy
21000 N 75th Ave
Glendale
If you are going through a divorce or have unfinished emotions and feelings regarding a past divorce, come for this series of videos that can help you heal and move forward. This is a small group setting.
Call Jerry for more info at 623-972-7651.

Healing from Loss: Tuesday Evenings
This grief recovery workshop meets on Tuesday Evenings. The 12-week workshop involves reading, reflection, homework and sharing. The next workshop will begin this fall. Call Greg for info: 602-622-1488.