Perry’s Scope: Christian sermons, lessons, and resources for teachers

Sometime ago, I read two surveys which give us an indication of the role of friendship in Americans’ lives. The first poll asked Americans to name the top two or three things for which they are most thankful. Family took the top spot at 61%. Others included Health (50%); Job (21%); all the way down to Friends (8%).

The second survey asked Americans to identify what they most wanted out of life. An overwhelming 75% indicated, “Having close, personal relationships.” Apparently, we want friends but we often fail to express our gratitude for them. Maybe expressing an appreciation for the friends we have will enhance our friendships and the making of friends.

When people come to our Groups and Classes, one of the things they are looking for is friendship. They may like the teacher and the topic of study, but they are there to make friends and find a place to belong.

Fellowship opportunities are important to the building up and maintaining of a Class or Small Group.  Josh Hunt encourages monthly fellowships in which we invite every member and every prospective member to attend. If we can get them to the party, they will come to class.

Take time for friendship-building opportunities.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene (perry.greene@southyukon.org)

I read about a small Indian tribe who lived in the state of Mississippi many years ago. They lived along the banks of a very swift and dangerous river. The current was so strong that if someone fell in, they would likely be swept to their death downstream.

One day this tribe was attacked by an larger, more aggressive tribe. They found themselves with their backs literally to the treacherous river. Their only chance to escape was to cross the dangerous current. This would certainly mean a sure death for their children, the elderly, the weak, the ill, and the injured. It would also mean the death of many of the strong as well.

The tribal leaders quickly huddled and devised a plan. The logical, reasonable thing was to leave the weak ones behind. They would die any way. Why risk losing the lives of the strong in a futile effort to save the weak? That may have been the rational answer but they could not do it!!

Instead, they chose to be extravagant in their generosity. They decided that the strong would pick up the weak and put them on their shoulders and cross the river. So, with great fear they stepped into the swift current, the strong carrying the weak.

In the river they met with a great surprise. To their amazement, they discovered that with the additional weight on their shoulders, the strong were able to keep their footing through the treacherous current to safety on the other side. Their own extravagant generosity saved them.

If, when we are strong, comfortable, and well-fed, we will reach out in extravagant generosity to help someone in need, there is a great surprise waiting. Maybe this is why Jesus said that it is more blessed to give than receive.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene (greene.perry@gmail.com)