Reminder to be real

Do you ever notice that the garage never stays clean? Every time I want to do something out there I have to clean up after myself first. I wish I could blame Shelley and the girls but the truth is 90% of the mess is mine. Oh well that's life.

This week I have been reminded that our lives are like my garage, they need constant attention to keep it functional, sometimes we like to pretend that things are better then they are and try to work in the midst of the mess - now that is a recipe for frustration and disappointment. I have tried this week to be real with God, telling him my frustrations and my disappointments - it feels good to be transparent with Him. But I am also learning that to be REAL requires action on my part. I have to do what I know to do... that sounds simple but it take purpose and effort. For me to be real is to be honest, transparent and active not passive. A new phrase at the Austin household is finish the task! When you start something do the whole job. God is really teaching me something here about my service to Him... I will let you know how that goes. I want to remind you to be real and be active with God. His blessings await all who seek him.

God is Good!

Jeff

Deep Impact

I am starting a new series this week called Deep Impact. I have been impressed with how little things make such a big impact in my life, a word, an action, a look, for good and for ill! But it makes a difference. Life is not neutral- I mean everything has an impact. The question that comes to mind made me a little queasy- What impact am I having on the church, on my family, on my friends, on the people that I come into contact will- see what I mean- big question. I also see the impact God is having on me- little things creating deep change in my life. I am excited about exploring this together- see you Sunday- I'm sure it will have a deep impact.

Jeff

Sun's out

You might have noticed that bright orb in the sky- we haven't seen it in a while. Isn't it interesting how something so far away can effect (is it effect or affect I seem to always get it wrong) us in so many ways. People are out walking around, waving at the neighbors, or just sitting staring at the bright orb with there eyes closed. The sun makes us feel good. But just you wait, those same people will be complaining about how hot it is and when are we going to get some rain cause my lawn is dying? It is a close margin from cold to comfortable to hot.

I think how we treat each other is kinda like that. We can be too distant and cold or we can be overbearing and hot. But everyone, and I do mean everyone, is looking for the warmth of true love and friendship. I think maybe God wants RLCC to be like this nice spring day: warm and inviting - touching everyone. Well.... let your love shine for all the world to see.

Really enjoying the rays at Real Life

Jeff

Eternal love

Hi everyone,
I loved talking about heaven on Sunday, Hell was a little tougher. God really does love us! I know I shouldn't be so surprised by that but I am - every day it just blows me away. I am really tired this week- Might be from the two trips to Idaho in 48 hours- Thanks for being a church that cares for other people. I always feel so good about invited people to join us on Sunday because I know how they will be received by you. It's God working in you. You are his "A" team!!!!

People are waiting for an invitation to be a part of something- I seem to be reminded of that everyday...

I am looking forward to Mother's Day. All you Moms out there are amazing- the influence you have is life changing... you are the real super heroes...

See you Sunday