First Steps – December 30, 2019

I like the story of a man who heard that his friend, Sam, quit his job.  The man then called the manager of the company to apply for Sam’s vacancy.  The manager responded, “Sam didn’t leave a vacancy.”
 
We could interpret this story in strictly “work” terms.  However, I think there is a broader interpretation, one more meaningful, if we see it in “life” terms.  Our life should be lived at a level that when our time is complete, there is a vacancy.  I think this type of life is not tied to production or bottom lines but in terms of people. 
 
Jesus was more concerned with people than anything else.  That is the currency of the Kingdom of God.  Your task this week is to invest in the people around you.  Pray for them, encourage them, love them, and be kind to them.  Live a life worthy of the gospel.  That is how we leave a vacancy. 

 


 

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This week’s reading:

• Monday –  Matthew 13
• Tuesday – Matthew 14
• Wednesday – Matthew 15
• Thursday – Matthew 16
• Friday – Matthew 17

Please Pray for:

• Ukraine Missions Team as they travel abroad.
• Traveling mercies for all.
• The Ministers and St. Paul UMC family.
• Those who are unwillingly absent.
• Those who are grieving and depressed.
• The United Methodist Church.
• Our nation and our leaders.
• The World.