This is how they will know...

I was traveling back from a family spring break trip when I received the news that Rick and Kay Warren's 27 year old son had died. I was heartbroken.

Julie and I have had the privilege to meet Rick while at a conference in California. I have been to Saddleback a couple of times for training. I have read his books. I have listened to his messages. I have taught many of his lessons. He has become for me a sort of long distance mentor - helping me develop as a pastor and follower of Jesus over the past 10 years. I love the Warren's heart, vision, and passion for impacting the world for Christ.

Rick is a fellow believer, pastor, dad, and husband. So when I heard the news of his sons tragic death I was heartbroken for their family and church. Then, as the days passed, I once again witnessed the ugliness in this world we live. Ugliness from within our own family of God and ugliness from those outside of the faith we have in Christ. I expect it from those who don't know Jesus - who don't understand the Bible. But I just don't understand other believers throwing mud especially in such a time of dispair.

This morning I came across Beth Moore's blog - it's one of the best blogs I've read in a long time. I urge you to take the time to read it with an open heart. Then, pray for the Warren family - pray for your pastor and leadership at your church - and pray for the body of Christ to come together like never before. Pray that our love for each other within the body of Christ will grow - because ultimately this is how the world will know that we are truly His disciples.

34A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 35By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." John 13:34-35 ESV

Here's the link to Beth's blog.













http://blog.lproof.org/2013/04/sadness-and-madness.html