Pastor's Corner

A rancher told those of us sitting in the Doctor's waiting room that raising buffalo was more challenging than raising cattle. He said you couldn't rope and lead a buffalo like a cow, but that they could be led by laying out hay when they were hungry. The hungry buffalo would walk along, consuming the row of hay and end up being where the rancher wanted him to be.

The rancher's explanation reminded me of the verse, "God's kindness is intended to lead you to repentance" Ro. 2:4.

The Lord leads us to Himself by giving us so many good things. Every good gift we enjoy is from the Lord. He blesses us with beautiful sunsets, tasty food, happy children, healing from illness, joyful moments, loving family. He has given so many good things to us with the intention that we will respond by having a loving relationship with Him. His goodness is given to lead us to a change of heart and a change of direction.

Instead of living for ourselves we choose to live to please Him. We make it our aim to please Him. His goodness has won our hearts - especially His amazing goodness in giving His Own Son to die for us.

Jesus said, "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you."

God's goodness leads us home. God's goodness leads us to a relationship with Him. God's goodness leads us to a greater experience of everything He has in mind for us throughout all eternity.

By Pastor Greg Brownell

Dayton United Brethren Church