BROADCASTS.com

I figured out that I like to control things. A long time ago, when I was in a Bible college, I remember thinking that the pastor was in total control of the church. Now, that thought made me laugh. For anyone but God, total control is nothing but an illusion. But that still doesn't keep me from trying...and failing. In John 15, Jesus prepared His disciples for His departure. For all of you who are "control freaks" like me, Jesus gives us some very simple instructions on how to be a follower of Christ. In short, he says: "Stop trying to control things. Just Be!" That's a lot easier said than done. But Jesus gives us some really helpful and practical wisdom about relinquishing control and being - finding the strength to "Just Be." A friend of mine sent this quote yesterday. I think it's fitting for this Sunday's message. "Dear God, I am so afraid to open my clenched fists! Who will I be when I have nothing left to hold on to? Who will I be when I stand before you with empty hands? Please help me to gradually open my hands and to discover that I am not what I own, but what you want to give me. And what you want to give me is love, unconditional, everlasting love. Amen." - Henri J.M. Nouwen