WHAT REALLY MATTERS

On June 11, 2005, Jerry wrote this entry to our journal which we made for our family.  It comes from Phil. 1:12 and 18:21, the Apostle Paul saying:  "I want you to know, beloved, what has happened to me has actually helped to spread the gospel.  What matters is that Christ is proclaimed in every way, whether out of false or true motives...For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain."


"Paul makes clear that we are to understand that what really matters in our lives is that we proclaim Jesus Christ born, crucified, and resurrected.   He said motive doesn't matter as long as Christ is lifted up and extolled.  If you remember, Paul was beaten, flogged, and imprisoned for long periods and yet it actually helped to spread the Gospel message.  This was Paul's singular purpose in life to the exclusion of any personal pain or difficulty.


"When I feel overburdened with situations in life, I can look at the experience from God's viewpoint and I can have the assurance that whatever happens to me is unimportant so long as the story of Jesus Christ is heard.  We must never waver from that call.  My singular focus in life is to always and in all situations proclaim Jesus Christ.  Lord, empower me to be bold for you.  Amen."


I love copying the words of my husband, knowing that it is his "heart words" that I write. I love it because it is what he teaches, and what I believe, too.  It was hard to find a way to "teach" what we believe when we moved to MN at our advanced age.  Most of our old friends had either died, or did not want to drive on the busy highways anymore, and that kept them still at a distance, but alive. So,we speak once and awhile by phone.  We have attempted meeting with a small group, but many are gone throughout the winter.  Our children are very loyal, and stop in with regularity, but they grew up knowing our beliefs and do not need further attention there. So, we found "the blog" and it is only our faith that knows you, and has love for you., but believe me, it is a strong love. 


And as love never fails, God, here, too, cannot and will not fail!


Jo INMN