My head hurts. I’ve been reading for a good while this morning. I’ve been traveling around the Internet reading various blogs discussing things Southern Baptist. There’s been quite a discussion lately about what makes one a “true” Southern Baptist. Much to my surprise I discovered, according to at least one group, that I’m not! That would really bother me if I cared about what they think.
On another thought I was listening to the radio on the way into the office this morning and heard how bad the economy is, about the reduction of the workforce, and the current rate of unemployment…I would be really bothered if I cared about what they think.
The two are not unrelated. We live in fearful times. There is reason for concern about our country, the economy and where we are heading. Within our convention there is legitimate reason for concern over direction and falling numbers. But should we panic? According to some we are on the verge of another Great Depression. Are we? Unemployment is at 7%. In 1932 it was nearly 25%. In fact in most of the leading indicators the depression was double or triple the numbers today. Problem? Yes. Disaster? Not yet. As for our convention we’re in trouble. There are things that concern me. I’m concerned about the narrowing of the parameters of cooperation. I’m concerned about our failure in reaching the younger generation and the increased “graying” of our convention.
But the truth is these are great times in which to minister. Hardships cause us to look to what really matters. Difficulties tend to purge and that’s a good thing. What do you do in the face of national crisis? How do we respond to denominational worries? We remain on task. We remain faithful to our call to live and preach the Gospel. Our goal is to hear the Master says, “Well done good and faithful servant.” Oh, and in case you’re interested…I do care what He thinks! I’ll see you Sunday.
Rod