Reading today in a new book I have gotten from Dick Hardy. He wrote it with me in mind I think. Very challenging and compelling to read. I have been amazed at how much I need to rethink about how and what I do as a Pastor. I have been at it now for over 35 years. I guess we are never too old to change or at least be challenged to change. I look back over where I have been and wonder how much has really been done. Maybe more than I think. I look ahead and see a lot of challenges before those of us who lead the church. It is so much different now than when I started out. Even the process of getting recognized by our fellowship is so different. Back then it was more about being observed by our leaders as competent to serve. We had the educational requirements to do as well. Now it is more about the education and then the observance. For me it is a big change. I don't comment or whether it is good or bad. I do know in the world I am in now I am expected to know more about more things. I do realize the demands have really changed, but the message has not. People still need God and His love. So I guess I better get to doing what I need to do to change. I love being challenged in my faith and my walk. Style doesn't mean anything to me. I never have been about style in anything. Substance is the key. And how to get the Word out so that everyone will understand. Thanks Dick for the challenge.

Today I began by reading again the book of Philippians. Paul is so good. I got ask last week who my favorite author was. When I said Paul they ask Paul who. I just looked at them funny and they said Oh yea Paul. Paul has a way of just stating the point blank truth and how to deal with it everyday. I was reminded I need to count everything as loss except Christ. If I just could live that way everyday. Well I can try and try I will.