On Friday night last week, I had the wonderful privilege of meeting 35 people who took to the streets of Columbus on their bicycles as part of a SpokeFolk tour 2016. They ride around 40-50 miles a day and stay in churches, schools, and just about anyplace that will allow them to overnight. They don’t require a whole lot of amenities as they “shower” in the garden hose on the back lawn! They sleep on the floor in whatever space is available. They are great!
Part of their tour is to put on a concert for the group that is hosting them. It was a wonderful time to learn a little about these young people. They shared their faith stories, performed a puppet show, and led us in some songs. This morning’s song was new to me, but I haven’t been able to forget it. The words are powerful!
The message of this song was actually a large part of the message at Living Word Lutheran Church yesterday. We talked about the challenges of being a Christians In A Culture Of Violence. We found from God’s word that we all too often try to cower in fear or we take sides but that’s not the mission of the church. We are to stand firm on the single message of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. We are to preach Christ crucified and risen.
Today, someone is going to try to steal your joy. Someone is going to try to ruin your day. Don’t let them. Remind the evil in this world that they can’t hold you down! Your joy is from God! It’s his gift to you. Cling to it. Live with it. Love others through it.
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