On Your Honor...

You know we used to say that as kids all of the time.  It's on your honor.  Meaning, you take a soda out of the refrigerator you are responsible to pay for it later.  Many circumstances in life offer us to be "on our honor!"  We know that our character is built, or tore down, by the "honor system." I thought of that over the last few days as we sat and re-watched the tragic stories that came from the 9/11 circumstances.  We watched in horror and in shock as the planes smashed into the World Trade Center Towers.  We watched and responded as if we had not seen it hundreds of times before. For me it was just a reminder to be thankful for what I have.  A reminder that God is in control of my life, knowing that the grace and peace that we experience as a family is a direct result of His hand on us.  The images are powerful, and the stories that came out of those events move us to emotion.  So, we paused this weekend...  we remembered those that have been lost.  We also Honored!!  We honored the heroes from 9/11 and we honored the heroes that work or are on call every day of our lives.  The ones that show up to help at a moments notice, true heroes in our society.  Also, we honored those that have sacrificed so much to protect the freedoms that we enjoy!  Our military personnel past and present all around the globe! We truly live in the greatest country on the face of the earth because of those that have been willing to sacrifice their lives in service.  We all know that sacrifice always requires bloodshed.  Approximately 1.2 million American men and women have done just that by the shedding of their own blood during war time.  We honor you.

It reminds me of a scripture that says that without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sins. Hebrews 9:22 

Jesus paid the ultimate sacrifice by the shedding of His blood and it is of the utmost importance that we honor Him everyday of our lives.  Our relationship with Him depends on it!  As we go about our days and weeks to come this year.  Remember the importance of Honor.  Honor God for sending Christ to die for us.  Honor, those that have served and are currently serving.  Honor each other by living the way that Christ modeled to us and remember to do the right things in your life.  It honors Him when we do...

Blessings,
Pastor Carl