Much has been (rightly) made of the wildfires spreading throughout the southern portion of our state. Acres are burned, homes have been destroyed, resources have been utilized and exhausted; and now it seems as though the tide is turning and containment is being achieved in greater measures than previously. For those not familiar with California's geography, the nearest of these fires is located about 400 miles away.
Yet the fire danger is imminent here in Hayward! However, no evacuations are underway and the warnings given by authorities familiar with the situation are being unheeded. The resources to battle this imminent danger are being strained and are reaching the exhaustion point. What is needed is a fresh supply of water and human resources to combat this dangerous situation.
I am speaking of the imminent danger faced by many in this community of the fires of hell. Whether our neighbors, co-workers, acquaintances or friends care to admit it, each moment spent outside of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ based on His substitutionary death as payment for their God-separating sin is a moment spent in danger of entering eternity in that state. The fire danger is high - for all have sinned and all face God's unadulterated wrath for sin unless One stands on their behalf as Mediator and Substitute.
Today, you can help battle the blaze! Share the news of sin, wrath and the gloriousness of Christ with those who stand to lose the most as the blaze continues. Carry the living water to quench the thirsty souls of those who have yet to drink from its unending supply.
The alarm bell is ringing. Who will answer the call to fight the imminent fire danger all around?
This week we increased our family's size by one. Meet Toby, our 18-month old Jack Russell Terrier.
Toby was rescued from the Humane Society of Silicon Valley, a great place to adopt a pet for yourself if you're in the area and looking to add a pet to your family. Toby has already begun fitting in to the household. He accompanies me to the office and enjoys breaking up my day with plenty of walks. I think I have lost about 5 pounds just from all the exercise!
Anyway, when you hear Toby referenced from now on, you will know he is a canine member of the family!
My friend, Chris, has a great personal story that would be worth your while to read. The Story of Grace details his journey through the adoption process. Well, I won't spoil the story. You go read it!
Today, Fairway Park Baptist Church marked 52 years of demonstrating God's person and work to the South Hayward community. May God be pleased to honor His name for another 52 years!
You can click the image for a larger version of the photo.
Today, bloggers are asked to show support for those attempting to bring democracy to their land. The Burmese people have undergone tremendous suffering, torture and death because of their ideals. It is my prayer that a peaceful resolution will be found before too many others lose their lives.
And yet, the gospel is not bound! Even if our government were to shut down Internet access and round up those who stood for Biblical principles, the gospel would never be bound. In fact, the Gospel seems to thrive best in times of difficulty.
Pray for those Burmese people affected in Myanmar and around the globe. Pray for those who are ministering the Gospel to them. Pray for your own sense of urgency about sharing the Gospel. Expect difficulty; it is the soil best suited for the seeds of eternal life.
UPDATE from Voice of the Martyrs:
Pray for Christians being affected by the continued unrest in Myanmar. The government is targeting anyone with influence, and churches have not been spared. VOM contacts report, "Churches cannot meet. We are quietly meeting in small groups of no more than five to pray for our country. China reports five people have been killed, the BBC is saying about 10 have been killed, but our people have seen hundreds of bodies and many more filling the hospitals." Pray for the protection and safety of Christians in Myanmar. Pray the Holy Spirit will convict the hearts of the government officials and that the testimony of believers will draw others into fellowship with Jesus Christ. Psalm 27:1; Joshua 1:9
Yet the fire danger is imminent here in Hayward! However, no evacuations are underway and the warnings given by authorities familiar with the situation are being unheeded. The resources to battle this imminent danger are being strained and are reaching the exhaustion point. What is needed is a fresh supply of water and human resources to combat this dangerous situation.
