Last night Chad and I were able to take in a preview of the world premiere of Floyd’s at the Guthrie. Chad’s middle son, Matt, is a lead carpenter for the Guthrie and was able to treat us with complimentary tickets. This play wasn’t on our must see list at all. We knew nothing about it. But we responded with a resounding “yes” to free tickets. The play was amazing. I am still churning over its impact on me. I’m grateful when Matt offers us tickets to performances we aren’t thinking about going to, because, inevitably, when we respond with a “yes,” the play blesses us in ways we had not expected.
Nine years ago today my oldest daughter, Abby, left for her first mission trip. She was only 12, just barely old enough. She and the youth group from our church took an exotic mission trip experience to St. Paul (we lived in Rochester at the time). I am so glad that she responded to God with a “yes” for that first mission trip, because it has blessed her and others in innumerable ways. It began a journey of serving in mission that has taken her across the United States and into Mexico.
I remember my first mission trip when I was 17. I wasn’t sure I would be able to do the physical things asked of me. I wasn’t sure I wanted to travel that far from home. I wasn’t sure. But when another youth group shared their experience and invited our youth group to the same, we responded with “yes.” And today I am remembering the dear saint, Barney, who made that trip with us and was a spiritual mentor for me as he led our small work group. Barney passed away last night…I grieve with his family. But I know for certain that the experience blessed me and Barney. The two of us, though never together again, have served in missions around the world.
What spiritual experiences are waiting for your “yes” response? Where has someone invited you to experience something about Jesus that you have hesitated to respond “yes” to? Where is God nudging at your heart?
This I have come to know: when I respond “yes” to a spiritual experience that isn’t on my “must do” list, I am usually deep blessed. I trust that is universal. God is waiting to bless you. How do you need to respond “yes” to God now, so that God can bless you?
If you are in town this weekend, respond “yes” to worship. You will be blessed as we explore the third decision that will change your life…THE DECISION TO RESPOND!
I’ll see you Sunday!