July 29, 2024

One thing that strikes me on trips elsewhere is the diversity of people.  Some are the "same" but, yet different... and then some are quite different, even a few states away (but speaking the same language).   I was intrigued on this last vacation with native Americans as we drove through a few reservations.  In many places, they are still a very damaged people.   We (through federal taxes) continue to give an incredible amount of money (welfare) to support Indians and this money often then gets spent on a bottle or drugs (sadly).   It is "more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35).   The inclination to help those in need is a Biblical one.  But, yet, "if anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat" (2 Thess. 3:10).  We should be insisting able folks work.  We want to give to the needy but not in such a way that would enslave them to poverty.

It also struck me at the wedding we attended how two families are joined together.  I found it intriguing that the groom and his three brothers, as well as his dad and every uncle had the same face. Genetics is strong with this one.  But, then, the love that his entire family seemed to have for the Lord struck me even more so.  They easily talked about the importance of faith in Jesus and what Christ did to save us at the cross.   Both families seemed to readily embrace one another excited for the union of a son and a daughter (there was a similar union that same Saturday here in Gretna at SSB -Jacob and Grace began their lives together!).  

In the middle of South Dakota, I asked one gal who ran a hotel about the picture of Kevin Costner hanging on the wall... he hugging her daughter.  Turned out his dad would hunt in that area for a few days each year and, the first time he stayed, Kevin came to make sure everything was set; he met this gal's entire family, they being owners of the place taking care of dad.   The movie star is a real person, with a real family.  As was this gal behind the counter checking me in.  

Another hotel found us risking life and limb (okay perhaps not but it was a bit of a more questionable establishment).   Some of the clientele seemed to be living there permanently (a bike was chained outside one of our doors).   We didn't feel super safe.   It wasn't wildlife or natural events that concerned us; it was people and the danger some of them bring.

So many people and such a variety of people.  Yet all have one great need... just one ultimate need.  They each need the issue of sin fixed.  A brokenness that is inherited by all and is only fixed by God through our trusting in faith in what Jesus did on that cross to die in our place.   I can't say I was perfect in sharing Jesus with all during this trip (we can all improve on this).  Part of our problem is, first of all, in our not noticing people well enough to consider their lostness and need.  May we all do better with this on vacation... and even in our own neighborhood.  

If you are a part of SSB, do take part in Creation Days
Creation Days volunteers are needed for food, setup, cleanup, security, parking lot help, and the Creation Days Kids  Klub.   HERE IS A LINK for you to sign up and help out.   This will be for Saturday, August 10th.    

You may also register to attend the conference on our website.  Click on the "Register Now" button through these two spots below:  
Sign up for middle school through adults is here....  ADULT REGISTRATION
Sign up for children (newborn through 5th grade) is here....  CHILD REGISTRATION

Baptism does not save but it is the first thing we are instructed to do after trusting in Jesus Christ for salvation.   We are baptized into Christ (Romans 6:3-4; Galatians 3:27) in a very real way spiritually and we should follow after Jesus to be baptized physically as well.  

SSB offers a Baptism class to help you understand the importance and we require all who desire to be baptized here to attend this 2-3 session class.  Ask us if you wish to learn more.