September 2011 

Greetings!  

I'm sitting in Whole Foods as I write this. A maroon van just drove up with the words "NO KING BUT KING JESUS!" written on the back window. Ah yes - it certainly stands out among the luxury SUVs and eco conscious hybrids. Doesn't blend in too well. As our country becomes more polarized in it's quest for religious freedom, true believers are going to start to look a bit like that van - sticking out like sore thumbs and looking very out of place and almost ridiculous in their environment. Do we fear sometimes we will be perceived like that van with all of its bumper sticker goofiness?

Looking at it from another perspective (and perhaps a more motivating one for you), imagine being an outfielder for the Yankees playing in Shea stadium during the 2000 World Series. First two games you had home court advantage, but now in game 3, you are not only up against the Mets, but their fans. However, just because you are no longer playing for your home crowd, will you stop playing your game?

As believers, we do not have a home court advantage. As soon as you step out of your church, you are in a hostile arena - but unlike at Game 3 of the 2000 World Series, we already know Who's going to win. You don't have to cower to the hissing of the crowds or tremble at the opposition. Remember the cloud.

Hebrews 12:1-3

1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.