For many of us, trying to figure out what to do on a given day or in a given situation can be a confusing challenge. We are confronted with many choices, sometimes more than the number with which we can or want to cope.

I can choose cereal for my breakfast -- but usually only one kind -- from among half a dozen varieties on the shelf. I can pick one of several different routes to travel from my home to the office.

A fixed amount of money can be spent on an infinite choice of merchandise. Which will have priority? Whether buying Christmas presents or formulating the church's budget, we have choices to make.

We are called as Christians to be at work to change the world. As servants of Jesus Christ, we are called to work to build His kingdom, which involves turning an upside-down world right side up. If we have no choices to make, then we may be too content with the way things are. Being confronted with choices is not a bad thing, but is part of our calling.

I want to suggest two principles which help us in facing choices and making the right ones. First, it is imperative that we are aimed in the right direction. Second, it is vital that we aim to be a blessing to those along the way.

When I choose my breakfast cereal, it is important that I be standing in front of the cereal shelf in my kitchen, and not in front of the household cleaning cupboard. If I choose a box from the cereal shelf, I will likely get something good to eat, even though I may not be absolutely sure which brand of cereal I think will best satisfy my taste. On the other hand, if my choice is made from among the soaps and household chemicals, I am quite likely to be poisoned. Similarly, if I head north from my house and turn only north or east, I will likely, sooner or later, arrive at the church building, even though I may not turn at the same corners each day. If I start out headed south, though, all the east turns in the world will not help me, as I get further and further away from my intended destination.

On the spiritual journey that is our life in this world, if we set out "to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever", we have an orientation for our life and work that will enable us, ultimately, to arrive at our destination. We may make some choices along the way that are better or worse than others, but we will make those choices from among options that can aid us in pleasing God and fulfilling His will for our lives.

It is equally important that we aim to bless those whom we meet along the way in our life's journey. Arriving at the destination is one part of our calling; whom we touch along the way is also part of what glorifying God involves. If I cut off or injure other drivers or damage other vehicles or property along the route, I will not have been used by God to bless others, even though I may arrive at the office well enough and in good time. On the other hand, if I have stopped to let the man pushing his elderly spouse in a wheelchair cross the road safely, or paused long enough to warn another driver that his truck has no functioning taillights, I may have aided someone else in their pilgrimage.

There are many options for the use of our time, talent, and treasury. Let us seek to make our choices having first chosen to serve God by following Jesus Christ.

Facing choices, and seeking to make good ones, because God has chosen to set me on the path of life,

Your pastor,
James T. Hurd