While touring the River Rouge Plant last summer, we were amazed and impressed by the size and scope of it. At one time it was the largest industrial complex in the world, with raw materials coming in one end, and finished Ford cars rolling out the other-today the build F150's. Amazing that it takes many things, and then builds one thing out of them. Finished products drive out on their own, after having been bought into the factory in boxes, bags, stacked on pallets, and in railroad cars. So many raw materials, that by themselves have no use, but when combined with just the right instructions, have a purpose. We all laughed as they showed us the employee parking lots, the biggest one and more convenient was for Fords only, the farther lot, and I mean way out there was for other brands driven by employees. For parking rights, it paid to drive a Ford. A fact not unnoticed by the bosses, managers, and supervisors. Late again from the hike? Shoulda bought a Ford. Down to the car you drove, they knew all about you, and you were treated accordingly. At least when parking.
Ford tried to have total control over you. You might say that they were trying to keep the world out, and did a pretty fair job of doing it. For awhile, but with the inconvenient parking of other brands, I am sure that many were influenced to buy a Ford. And just like the old Ford ad prophesied, every time they walked the half mile to work, past the employees' Fords, they were reminded "there is a Ford in your future!" Dale Carnegie was half right-they were influencing people, but probably not making friends.
Ford did its best to keep the world out. To run things their way. According to their belief system and rules. The building said Ford right on it-it was theirs, and if you didn't like it, try GM, Chrysler, or American Motors. The door swings both ways...
I used to believe that the world invaded the church. That it had somehow in some type of anti-church crusade laid hold of the people, the rights, their beliefs, and even their pastors, and that this was part of being a Christian-the eternal battle between good and evil. But I was wrong. And too many things remind me of this-one would be plenty, thanks. I get ads all the time like you do. Today an ad got my attention, and really personifies what I believe. The world didn't have to invade the church-they sent out invitations, opened the doors, and welcomed it in. Then quickly shut the door behind it-so it couldn't leave! The ad stated simply "Are you looking for fresh sermons?" Go to sermonsearch.com for today's freshest and best new inspirational sermon ideas! Even comes with a FREE 30 day trial before you subscribe. Valet sermons-someone else does all the work, you just show up for the event. And it doesn't matter where you park, or preach-someone else is doing it for you. You may as well take the bus, or have someone read it for you. Bet we never hear about how it is a personal relationship with Christ, when yours isn't?
Pastors take note-remember when the Holy Spirit guided you? Are you so far from God that you have to buy books, by subscription, written by men, to do what you have the Holy spirit for? The moneychangers are in the church-remember Jesus turning over the tables and chasing them out? Quick-what man knows more or could possibly be a better instructor, teacher, guide, counselor, or savior than Jesus Christ? Yet you lead your flock by following men's ideas? The scripture tells us what is in your heart will come out of your mouth? Does this give us a fair picture of what is in your heart?
Maybe this is a good deal, for after the 30 day trial it is only $21.95 month! How can we as men of God, chosen by Him to lead others, fall into the trap of letting others guide us? Is Jesus out of fresh ideas? Would you sell your soul for $21.95/month? Or would you rather follow Jesus, who paid the price in full, and knows exactly what you need, and not only has the answers, but the way out also. And provides them via mercy and grace! In love-should anyone not have the $21.95! Are you so far from God you need help from the Internet? Proverbs tells us not to listen to gossip because we may not like what we hear? Are you listening? We don't like what we are hearing. The spirit has never stopped speaking!
At least Ford promised a future if a Ford was in it. What is your future for leading little ones-your congregation astray? Something about a millstone around your neck, and a deep ocean...all for only $21.95/month.
Turn to Jesus today. Let Him forgive you and inject life into your messages that no source other than God could supply. Seek Him first, then as everything else is added watch your congregation grow. And you will too! In ways no other book could ever foretell. Jesus is the way. He made it simple enough. It is all about Jesus-anything else is first loser.
Now, about that personalized parking space right in front of the entrance, why don't you park far away, pretend you work for Ford and drive an other, and show some hospitality to your guests? Might even meet some of them as you walk the parking lot to your car? Seems Jesus also was out among the people...but be careful-someone may recognize you.
As always, it is better to seek God. Trust God! Hey, there's a subject for a sermon-and I'll even give the first one free! Now all you have to do is trust Him. And not me.
By the way, they are also advertising for sermon submittals. Wonder what they would think of this one?
love with compassion,
Mike
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