April 21st - Sunday

This morning I stopped at Hardee's and had a couple of Canadian bacon, egg and cheese biscuits (they were on sale), and a cup of coffee on my way to the early service (9AM) at Cumberland Fellowship. I think the “older” crowd must gravitate toward the early service. Most of the people appeared to be in the 50 plus age group. The contemporary music seemed to be the same as it is during the later service and the Spirit seemed equally as active.

The Pastor spoke on integrity, and how it is sorely lacking in today’s society. He noted that today we are much more likely to be shocked when someone shows integrity that we are when someone shows a lack of it. It no longer shocks us when we hear about scoundrels in government and business. We expect that everyone is trying to cheat us. An evening watching TV commercials certainly shows that many businesses will say anything to try and get you to buy their product. An election cycle shows that most politicians will say/do anything to get re-elected, so that they can continue their rape of the American taxpayer.

He suggested that a definition of integrity is being the same person in private that you are in public. He, as usual, turned the message to those in attendance. He commented that if those of us in church practiced integrity, churches would have people lined up outside the door, waiting to get in and join. (I just reread that and it doesn't have the right tone. The Pastor does not make you feel bad as he points out the shortcomings that we all have. He makes you want to become a better person, one who will lead a more satisfying life while here on Earth.) 

 

He went on to ask the question, “What is your integrity worth to you?”. Is it worth the money you might save if you cheat on your taxes? It is worth lying to someone to save yourself from an embarrassing situation? Is it worth the temporary satisfaction you might experience by cheating on your spouse? He listed enough things that at least one of them probably hit home with most of us in attendance. He ended stressing the importance of the peace that is available to those who do walk in integrity.

It is a beautiful day here. I spent that past 2 hours sitting outside enjoying the peace and quiet. It is 2 PM and I came in to warm up some pork and gravy that Kathy sent me. One of the many meals she prepared and froze for me before I left Missouri.

I  hope all of you are also enjoying the beautiful day. May God bless you and yours.