Sermon prep and maybe a video...

     James 4 has brought up some interesting study.  First, "the quarrels and fights among you."  Those are usually worse than you think even though we try to minimize them.  The source is simpler than you think because it is coming from within you.  The solution is easier than you think because the solution that James gives is that we need to humble ourselves before the Lord.  Any sincere resolution is specific and brief.  Beware of lengthy resolutions that usually include explaining it away or excusing some of the behavior.


     As I have seen before, the words are a sign of the heart.  I read this week that if we have a critical heart we usually start by speaking evil of another to ourselves.  Then we progress to speaking evil of another to that person with a running tally in our heads of all their wrongs.  Finally, we speak evil of another to others and broadcast in a way that we are thinking that we are helping.  Giving judgment is always easier than giving mercy.  I am reminded to that the law that James is talking about here is the law of love.  Do I stop and ask myself, am I speaking the truth in God's way of love?


     So I will try something this morning with video but if it does not come out or you have a slow internet speed, the big "c" has come into my life.  I have been diagnosed with rectal cancer and am waiting more appointments and probably more tests to tell what stage it is.  I have received many emails of love and support and to all I say thank you.  I thought I would try this because I had seen it done with a pastor named Matt Chandler of a church named "The Villages."  He had a brain tumor removed and he charted his progress for his family and friends and congregation to view on a weekly basis.  I do want my kids to know and see that Dad is plugging through this.

Adam