One Summer in Indiana

One summer in Indiana, when at lienert's Gym Camp, I swam too far from the pond’s shore. A weak swimmer, and with poor eyesight, I didn’t know how far I had swam and started to drown. I could only take in air by gasps. Trying to call for help and feeling the water rush into my mouth, I quickly grew weaker, and terrified. When I had given up all hope, pair of hands reached out to me and pulled me to the surface where I could breath. This girl held me up by her strength, and pulled both of us to the shore. I also vividly remember the happiness we felt when we were standing on the shore

Decades later, when I was without hope, lost and drowning in despair – another pair of hands pulled me up.

The first pair of hands belonged to a child, whose name I don’t remember. The second pair of hands had the marks of crucifixion embedded in them. The child helped me to live – the man helped me to die.

I have no idea what my future holds for me. The more I let go and choose the one who first chose me, the freer I am. I am forever in debt to the girl, whose name I don’t remember, the greatest payment I can give her are my prayers (even as I write this). My debt to my lord is un-payable. He gave all he had for me (and you), what I have to give to Him is my love.

He forever affects our lives. To be truly free, we must offer everything to his lordship. Only he is worthy to be our King. We show this, by submitting to Him. Worshiping Him in church, at home and in our daily lives; giving of our wealth; dedicating ourselves in ministry to our church and to the community; our bringing his message to the world, through word and service – this is obedience to Him.

Are you grateful for the good things in your life? Praise Him. Are you frustrated and saddened by events in your life? Surrender them to Him. Are you unsure of your future, in this life, and in the next? Dedicate yourself to Him. Rest assured, He is with you even as you read this. He always was.


There is much to do. Our community at large is starving for hope. Without Jesus, we can’t do anything for them that will truly endure. With Him – the work is powerful and life changing. Our church is at a crossroads. If we want it to thrive as a center of action and mercy then we must reconsider our lives there too. Ask Jesus what he wants of you, as Him now. Letting go is always difficult, but his answer to surrender is always gentle.

He is worthy of worship. Summer is already upon us. As busy as you are - as many things as there to do and see – continue to come to church. Also, think about how you might serve Him. What small group do you want to participate in? If there isn’t one formed, speak with me or others in our community, The region is full of good ideas- we’ll find a way to start one. Book discussion, bible study, prayer shawl ministry, even outdoors activities like fishing and camping. It’s in these small groups that we experience powerful fellowship. It’s through such fellowships that our church will grow.

Peace and Blessings,

Greg