PASTOR’S CORNER, Rev. Rex Petty, Faith Tabernacle Church, Liberal
There are all kinds of road signs on the highway, but perhaps the most aggravating one you sometimes see is a bright orange neon sign with large black print that says, "ROAD CONSTRUCTION AHEAD." Oftentimes this means you must slow down, stop, and possibly groan while you impatiently wait.
To become a Christian means you say, "Yes" to Jesus Christ and submit your life to Him, giving Him highest priority. This means you are under construction by the Master. God desires to take you and change you if you allow Him to do so. This transformation process is challenging and does not take place overnight. Progressing in the Christian life requires time similar to the aging of wine.
In July of 1982, a Seattle businessman named Don Bennett climbed to the top of Mount Rainer. It was a 14,410 foot climb to the top and Bennett amazingly made it hopping on one leg using his crutches. He became the first amputee to climb the mountain. When he was asked how he accomplished this extraordinary difficult climb he replied, "One hop at a time".
How do you become more Christ-like? By moving forward one hop at a time allowing The Holy Spirit to help you each step of the way. Saint Augustine once said, "You become like what you adore".
The next time you see a road construction sign choose to rejoice because eventually the road will be smoother, wider, and more pleasant to travel. The Apostle Paul states it so well in Philippians 1:6; "Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ". To paraphrase this verse is to simply say, "Road Construction" ahead and don't forget to slow down and allow the Lord to help you progress "one hop at a time".
AMEN!!