Working on the "GETCHA" instead of the "GOTCHA"!

Ephesians 4:29-32 ESV

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

Lately, one only need watch the news, social media or have a current conversation and often the “GOTCHA” comes out. We even see this “GOTCHA” come out in the mouths and actions of those that are followers of the cross. Who is doing what, who is not as good as me, and who is not worthy of the Kingdom of God. We often need to build up ourselves by trying to “GOTCHA” others as to make ourselves feel better. The “GOTCHA” also occurs when we try to go after historical characters and whether their lives and works are truthfully and ethically valid?

During my first month as pastor, I have been focusing on The Apostle Paul’s Letter to the Church at Ephesus. Paul’s helping them and us to answer the following question.

Who we are as God’s people, and how to represent ourselves as people of the Risen Savior?

Why are so many congregations with empty pews? Why do so many of today’s youth feel estranged from faith and God’s people? “THE GOTCHA”! The, "you are unworthy of my friendship and you are unworthy of our Savior!"

Beloved, instead of the “GOTCHA”, we need to focus on the “GETCHA” in the fact that the “GETCHA SOME” of Jesus is open to all, and all are worthy of the Kingdom of God.

My prayer for all of us today is to live as Paul taught the Ephesian church and preach love and worthiness, rather then hate and unworthiness.

Instead of the “GOTCHA” ... God’s people should concentrate on allowing all of God's people to "GETCHA" God!

This is the day that the Lord has made, rejoice and be glad in it. Pastor Tim