Myranda and I arrived in Haskell on Tuesday to friendly faces and welcoming folks. We have been spoiled with two kinds of banana pudding, fried chicken, Mexican casserole, chocolate pie, cookies, brownies, Blue Bell ice cream, homemade salsa, and various other snacks and foods. Our new to us house was spotless and ready to be moved into. Despite our "stuff" being strung between Kentucky and Texas, our transition into Haskell has been great.
But that still leaves me a little unsure of what exactly it is that I'm supposed to be doing. I've made a few phone calls, unlocked the church doors, and even visited with the SPRC chairman a couple of times. I wrote out my testimony for this Sunday's service, chose the songs to sing, and prayed about what to say and for the people of this wonderful community. But even so, the question remains, "What am I really supposed to do?"
While this question has been weighing on my mind the last few days, I sat down with my Bible for my morning devotional. I have to admit with the moving and other activities of late, I have not had my regular devotional time the way I like to do it. But perhaps the Holy Spirit was moving me away from my normal routine for a specific reason. This morning, I finished reading 1 Peter. I think the Holy Spirit chose to reveal this passage to me today for a good reason. Here is what I read this morning,
"Now as an elder myself and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as one who shares in the glory to be revealed, I exhort the elders among you to tend the flock of God that is in your charge, exercising the oversight, not under compulsion but willingly, as God would have you do it--not for sordid gain but eagerly. Do no lord it over those in your charge, but be examples to the flock. And when the chief shepherd appears, you will win the crown of glory that never fades away."--1 Peter 5:1-4
In a most wonderful and profound manner, I got my marching orders this morning. I am eager to carry out my duties as an elder in the church. I am excited to know that the LORD has placed me here in Haskell at this time. Over the coming weeks I am going to try to get to know the people, the ministries, and the community. I pray that God will strengthen me as an example to the flock here and that when the chief shepherd appears he will be pleased with my effort and my devotion to his calling.
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| First United Methodist Church, Haskell, TX |
If you are ever in Haskell, I encourage you to make your way over to Haskell UMC. We would love to see you and show you around. I might even buy you a blizzard at the DQ! Until next time...
+May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you.
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