It is strange how we get so used to things.  I have been involved in organized ministry for almost 10 years now, and I sometimes forget what a blessing it is to be used by God in the ways He still uses me.  I have spoken at tons of DNOW’s, and today I met with a leadership group from a church who is using me in a few months, and it was just a great experience.  Rarely is a guest speaker asked for input, but today this group was truly interested in how God is and will be speaking to me about this event.  So, often you are invited in, given little direction (a theme if lucky) and just let go.  Yeah, sometimes I appreciate that, but other times it is great to be asked well ahead of time, “What do YOU see God doing through this,” or “What can we do to help YOU?”  Sometimes I just expect to almost go in without help from those who are inviting me.  I have almost gotten used to it.  Is that sad?  So, when a group comes along that does over and above that, it is almost shocking.  It is a good “shocking” though.  Also, it enables me to do what God has called me to do… HELP IN ANY WAY POSSIBLE!  It gives me the opportunity to ask the church or leadership, ”What can I do for you?”  After all, that is what I should be doing right?  Sometimes, I forget that as well.  For that, I am truly sorry.  What a gift it is from God that I get to work for HIS kingdom!  I look forward to seeing what God is going to do through this group effort.  I am also pumped because a good friend is leading worship for the event, and it is planned for all of us, including the worship leader, to get together to plan things out.  I know that this is not always possible for alot of events, but it is nice.  So, note to leadership- go the extra mile for those you invite in to be used by God.  Greet them with the hospitality and love that you would want to be greeted with.  Ask them for input when possible, and ask how you can help them!  And, note to self-  ”YOU (Matthew) are being used to HELP… ask what YOU can do for THEM besides just come in for a day or so and teach a few times.”  After all, we are all part of the same Church, right?

PS… This is day 5 of the NO sugar, NO carbination fast.  I have not killed anyone, or attempted to use Krispy Kreme as a cuss word!  So, I think I am doing pretty well.