Until I am officially a full time evangelist.

So, I saw this over on twitter today: "Mitt Romney is Robin Williams's character in Hook before he finds out he's Peter Pan." - @drhastings

Now, for those of you not aware of it, there is an awesome web comic called Dr. McNinja, and it is written/drawn by @drhastings. (He is not really a doctor.) The comic is great and funny, and all around awesome! You should give it a read some time. I'm not surprised that its creator is liberal. What I do enjoy though, is the implication of his joke. While he is trying to slam Mitt Romney (whom I have no strong feelings about one way or the other myself) he is inadvertently opening Obama to a similar comparison.

President Obama is Rufio.

Just like Rufio he is the currently leader, and is very "popular" and "cool". Or should we say, "bangarang?" He is rather self-important and condescending to his opponent. But, we also know that it doesn't take long before the Lost boys abandon Rufio, and then Rufio dies.

So, is Romney Peter before he remembers how to crow? Maybe. But I think we can all agree that Obama is Rufio.

6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

I've been thinking a lot lately about what our examples mean as Christians. Specifically when it comes to teaching the world. I don't think it's cynical of me to say that even though we are saved we all sin. None of us are going to be perfect in our every actions. That is not to excuse or say that it is ok for us to sin. Paul tells us in Romans that is not the way grace works. (Romans 6:1-4) We have God's grace to forgive us when we repent. What I have been dealing with, or struggling might be a more appropriate word, is whether or not my life is how it should be to effectively teach others of Christ.

There are still sins, those old comfortable ones, that cling so tightly. Exorcising them has never been easy, and some of them seem to refuse to go. My concern is can I show someone the word of God without my own short comings distracting from the word. Well, my first conclusion has been that my short comings do not matter. God's truth is not dependent upon me because they stand regardless of my failures. I am just as responsible to them as anyone. As long as I still have my faith and strive to overcome my sins I know the truth will be seen! Second, I am certain in my belief that my doubts about this are the Adversary trying to discourage my chances to teach others. He is the father of lies and the accuser of men, so why would he not seek the chance to make us second guess ourselves when we have an opportunity to teach others? (John 8:43-45; Revelation 12:9-11)

I know, and am grateful, that it is not dependent upon me to "save" anyone. It is my job to scatter seed, plant, and water wherever I can. (Matthew 13:1-9) God will give the increase and His truth will save! (1 Corinthians 3:5-7) Praise Him who gives to us so freely and greatly!

I ask that you will all pray for my upcoming efforts to teach. This Sunday afternoon I'm beginning a study with a classmate of one of our members who has never studied the Bible, but is very interested in learning about it. I am nervous because of the reasons I have mentioned, but also because this is new ground for me. I pray that I will at the least be able to plant a seed, and at the most that God will bring another sheep into His fold.

Tonight at church I'm going to introduce a new song to our congregation. It's words are some of my favorite in a hymn.

How Deep The Father's Love

How deep the Father's love for us! How vast beyond all measure.
That He should give His only Son to make a wretch His treasure!
How great the pain of searing loss! The Father turns His face away,
As wounds which mar the Chosen One bring many sons to glory.

Behold the Man upon a cross, my sin upon His shoulders.
Ashamed I hear my mocking voice call out among the scoffers.
It was my sin that held Him there, until it was accomplished.
His dying breath has brought me life; I know that it is finished.

I will not boast in anything; no gifts, no pow'r no wisdom!
But I will boast in Jesus Christ, His death and resurrection.
Why should I gain from His reward? I cannot give an answer.
But this I know with all my heart; His wounds have paid my ransom.