“In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice;
    in the morning I lay my requests before you
    and wait expectantly.” – Psalm 5:3

I am really struggling today.  I got up this morning and had all kinds of issues to deal with that were troubling me.  Nothing catastrophic, you all probably have the same issues with children, school, work, bills, etc.  Most times I just go with the flow and keep moving.  But sometimes, like today, it seems as if they all pile on top of me and I get really down, and frustrated, and sad.

So what did I do?  I considered going back to bed.  It is my off-day and it sure was appealing to think about just lying there.  But instead I put on my walking shoes and headed down the street.  I went out into the cool morning air to meet with my Savior and talk things out – just the two of us.  And guess what?  He showed up.

Jesus showed up and whispered to me words of peace and encouragement.  His Spirit filled my heart with joy.  Yes, I poured out my soul to Him, the whiny complainer I am.  But in His grace He just walked along with me and assured me that everything was going to work out.  By the time I got home I was so happy and filled with peace.  How thankful I am that He is faithful to minister to my every need, just like a good Father should.

So I am thinking today about the unchurched.  How do they deal with days or even seasons of life’s struggles?  Where do they turn when they need encouragement or help?  I can’t imagine facing life without my Rock and my Fortress.  Because even thought my friends and family love me, they are a far cry from the affections of my Savior.

I will encounter many unchurched people this Sunday during the Magic City Miracle.  I know this because I have been reading my site’s registration sheets.  For a few hours, these folks will see the best that Christ’s church has to offer.  But I don’t want to let it stop there.  I so very much want to see people moved by what they witness, that they will actually want to visit our churches and see what this Jesus thing is all about.  I pray that my personal witness will introduce many to the heart of Jesus and lead them to seek more of Him.  

Heavenly Father,

You put before me every day a chance to witness to the world the story of Your grace and kindness.  I don’t think I do a very good job of it most days.  But I pray that on Sunday, with the support of thousands of brothers and sisters in Christ, that my witness will be strong, and truthful, and will make an impact for Your kingdom.

I pray that You will prepare the hearts of all those coming to Linn Park, especially those that don’t know You.  Create in them a desire to meet You.  And fill the rest of us with the boldness to introduce them.  May many souls meet you for the first time on Sunday, and never look back.

In the name of my Savior I pray,

Amen