The Rudder

I like my coffee hot, although when it's 90 degrees out, I like it iced or frapped.

Lukewarm, umm, not so much. I think most Christians assume they are in the fertile soil spoken of in the parable of the sower in Matt 13. You know what they say about assume?

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2013:1-12&version=NIV



I'm down here in Nicaragua staying with a family that knows what it means to lose everything, take stock of life, and relocate here to make a difference in people's lives for the gospel. Here in the rain forest, life is so different from both SoCal and ATL. Just getting from point A to point B is an adventure. You can take a shower if there is water in the well. Hungry? Go catch the loudest chicken or at least gather a few eggs. Need an alarm? Cock-a-doodle-doo! Living simply after losing everything financially. But this family rocks! They say they wouldn't "do over" for one second. They realize firsthand God allows trials and tribulations to affect us to grow closer to Him. But more importantly, to join God in whatever He already is doing, and making a difference in other's lives.



This is the fertile soil spoken of.



Thorny soil is where most pitch their camp. Maybe not purposely, but nevertheless it is what it is. Unfortunately, many people and churches, have huge mortgages, car payments, overhead, etc that requires much resources. True religion is supporting those who could never repay like orphans and widows, and the starving. Yet, if you ask the typical Christian or church if they would be able to help support a ministry down here or over there, the response is generally a resounding "no." Not because they don't want to but rather because they can't. The thorns of life have their grip firmly planted in the hearts, wallets and budgets. Besides, that might take them out of the comfort zone of lukewarmness.

$80 a month is an average salary for a family here. Back in the states, what's that, Starbucks for a week for a typical family?