It's Not What, It's Why

Mark 9:38-50

I sure am glad I got over my gloom yesterday. If it had not been so this morning's post would have been more to the side of "tear your eyes out" than "let's work together". It's amazing how one day and the reflection of words we hear in passing can change our entire outlook. If you're having a bad day you see things in a bad way. Conversely, if you are having a good day you will see things in a good way.

Our church is a truly amazing church. We honestly care about our families and friends, we go out of our way to be sure everyone is happy and if they're not we take the time to sit and talk with them. We welcome all visitors with open arms and do our best to make people feel at home. We laugh with each other, cry with each other, share in one another's pain and celebrate one another's joys. My guess is we're no different than any other church, of any denomination, anywhere in this wonderful world.

Just as we are outwardly accepting we also have inner turmoil based in deeply entrenched beliefs on issues that are forefront in our society; church doctrine, "correct" teachings on the Gospels, and unconditional acceptance of all people regardless of creed, sexual preference, or abilities. Again, I don't think this makes us any different than every church, regardless of denomination, anywhere in this world.

That, my friends, is what makes us who we are; human. Too many times we get caught in the whats of life; what do we believe, what do we do for a living, what is your background, what can you do for me. Too few times do we try to understand the whys in life; why do you do that for a living, why do you believe the things you do, why do you want to do things for me.

In today's passage the disciples were more worried about what was being done in Jesus' name and couldn't see there was a reason (a why) for it to be done. This is a place many of us find ourselves much too often. Today, try to look at why things are the way they are, do your best to learn from those around you why they think the way they do. Who knows, maybe you'll discover something new that may change you in an exciting way.