Wednesday July 23rd in the Year of Our Lord, 2008.

Hey Folks,

Here are just a few random thoughts tossed together...more 'blog-esque' than I usually am, I think...

Romans 14:13 says “Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother [or sister].” (English Standard Version) I tend to spend a lot of time talking about things pertinent to your personal faith journey...but this scripture verse reminds me that you also need to be sensitive of the faith journey of others.

I'm writing this blog update from the staff retreat. We are at Rev. Vicki's lake house, planning out the preaching topics and hymns for the next year. 'Nuff said about that.

Be aware of and pray for those dealing with hurricane Polly in Texas, please.

A lot of speculation about who McCain and Obama will choose for their running mates. It brought a question to mind...who would Jesus choose as his vice presidential running mate? Well, let's first look at how people go about choosing running mates. One way is to choose someone who is strong where you are weak. For instance, If the candidate is popular in the northeast and the midwest, he or she might want a candidate from the south. Or if the candidate doesn't have a lot of, say foreign diplomacy experience, he or she might want a running mate with a strong background in that field. Some think that you want a running mate with some name recognition and/or gravitas. Some think (particularly in this election, on the Democratic side) that a close primary contest means that the loser should be the running mate. But how do we apply any of these criteria to Jesus? No one has better name recognition, he doesn't have any weak spots to round out, and he has all the experience he needs. He is the total package. I suppose there is one other running mate criteria...personal compatibility. If the candidate and the running mate are polar opposites, then it makes for a pretty bumpy presidency. If haven't figured out where this is headed, let me make it explicit: Jesus would be picking you as his running mate. There's no one who is more wants to be with you more than He.

Peace, and have a good one.
Kevin

PS In the Roman Catholic tradition, today's saint is St. Bridget of Sweden (see pic). Go here for more information.