Two things that amaze me ...

I continue to be amazed by two things - first, that God provides for his people through the systematic teaching of his word and second, the casual and sometimes willful way that we neglect His provision.

Planning a preaching schedule and listening to God for what he has for his people is an exciting journey. Despite our best efforts, it is impossible to see what may be coming in people's lives. Yet week after week the topics and scripture texts that are chosen weeks and months in advance become exactly what God will use to speak to someone's life. That is both exhilarating and sobering.

The disappointment for me is when those to whom we minister take such a casual approach to their attendance in Sunday worship. It thrills me when in my preparation I see the needs of individuals being addressed by the text. How gracious of God to lead me to a text that will address specific need in someone's life. I wonder if He is as disappointed as I that they missed what could have effected their growth and spiritual development.