Pastoral Page

Over the Labor Day long weekend, my daughter Patricia and I spent a lot of time at the Borders Bookstore. We each had downloaded several 30% off coupons from the internet, and we availed ourselves of this opportunity to shop for some good reading.

I came across a coffee table book entitled "A Portrait of Greatness", which is a picture album of the presidency of President Ronald Reagan. While browsing through the book, I was transported back in time to 20 years ago, when President Reagan was inaugurated for a second term of office.

No matter what ones political conviction may be, President Reagan was one of the most popular presidents of our country. He was always confident, optimistic, hopeful, and encouraging. This may be the secret of his success. Here are some of his memorable lines: "The American sound…is hopeful, big-hearted, idealistic, daring, decent and fair. That's our heritage; that's our song…."

President Reagan's optimism influenced the subsequent presidents. President Clinton believed in "a place called Hope." President George W. Bush emphasized "compassionate conservatism." The world has seen enough of negative spirits and sour puss. We naturally look to optimistic, visionary, persistent and hardworking people to take the lead.

Dr. Robert Schuller always called Jesus Christ "the world's greatest possibility thinker." No founder of any religion ever used the word possible more than Jesus did! These are some of Jesus' words:

"For with God all things are possible" (Mark 10:27).
"The things which are impossible with men are possible with God"
(Luke 18:27). "All things are possible to him who believes" (Mark 9:23).
"Father, all things are possible" (Mark 14:36).
"If you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain,'move…' and nothing will be impossible" (Matthew 17:20).
"With God nothing will be impossible" (Luke 1:37).
"With men it is impossible, but not with God" (Mark 10:27).
"With God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26).

It is the nature of Satan to divide and destroy, but only God can create and give life. As Christians, we are called to be God's children and Jesus' followers. Let us "therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing" (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

Love in Christ Jesus,

Pastor Ling