Mark 8:27-9:1
8:33….for you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things.

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I would like to retell a story that Rev. Thomas Daniel used in his sermon at Loaves and Fishes.

A group of American cattle ranchers traveled to Australia to review ranching there. Australian cattle ranches had been outperforming American ranches for several years. After visiting the ranches and meeting with the ranchers, one American noted that he had not seen any fences.  When asked why, the Australian replied, “We do not take time to build and maintain fences.”  Then “How do you keep the cattle from wandering off?” asked the American.  The Australian replied, “We dig good wells with plenty of good water.  If you have ample, good water the cattle will not wander off.”

Rev. Daniel then pointed out that churches are putting up fences saying what they are against (i.e. abortion, homosexuality) then as Rev. Daniel pointed out, they lob grenades over the fences. Then they say, “Come join us,” but cannot understand why their numbers are dwindling.  Churches are spending too much effort building and maintaining fences when they should be digging wells to provide water for thirsty souls that tell of God’s love and mercy.

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God, help Northminster to be a church that digs wells not builds fences. 

Amen.

Neal Martin