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I worked for eight years in a post-secondary institution.  There were many great debates and faculty discussions over time.  Below is a quote which rang home with me – almost two decades after completing my service in that institution.

“”When someone asks that the essence of a Christian education is ‘excellence’ or ‘service’ or even ‘small class sizes with personal attention,’ I have to ask what is distinctively Christian about such an essence?  Can’t someone from another faith tradition do those things?   What are distinctively Christian are the gospel, the Scriptures, and the church.”  (p. 92, Christianity Today, November 2012).

I think this talks to truth, community and relationship. 

Imagine if we Christians were to “unsugar coat” our talk and start with the hard things out front.  This is the Gospel of Jesus Christ – Creation, Fall, Redemption and Restoration.  This is the Scriptures – verifiable words that point to truth.  This is the Church – lived out lives showing a new kingdom.

Thought today would be a good day to reflect on Presidents. 

Last Thursday I attended the inauguration of the President of our denominational school.  Gordon T. Smith is a friend, fellow student, former colleague for over 40 years.

I first remember Gordon – amazing how pictures stick  in your mind – from the first day in residence at Canadian Bible College.  I had worked the summer painting in the dorms.  Now, I was standing outside the dorms as a new resident – about to begin my first semester of school.

I was early – probably following the pattern of being there early to paint over the summer.  Gordon comes around the corner, I believe with a steamer trunk in tow, and approaches the dorms.  I probably said something profound, like “Hi.”  He probably said something profound, like “Hi.”

We did not become close friends, but we have at least kept a friendship over the years.  And so, it was my privilege to be present for the inauguration.  This was not the first time Gordon’s name had been bandied about for President.   I saw a certain sense of purpose at this point in his life that will carry him well into this role.  May God bless!

I’m back home from a week of driving.  First to Saskatoon (2 hour drive) and to Calgary (usual 4 hour drive).   The Saskatoon drive was somewhat uneventful.

The Calgary drive?  A little less uneventful – in other words . . .

Ever try driving in fog for hours?  And then find patches of ice that the freezing rain has just been deposited?

I began to become philosophical as  I drove (you start to think that being philosophical is much wiser than becoming overwhelmed and erratic!).

I know that my life is guided by Jesus.  But most days I’m in the clear and how I steer my life is fairly constant and hum drum.  In fact, I could just let the wheel go and I wouldn’t worry.  The country side would pass by and I would have enjoyed the day.

But when fog surrounds you, you are still left hold the steering wheel.   But this time you pray for protection and trust that the road in front of you is one that the maker had in mind (no potholes, bridges out or lack of guardrails).  The white and yellow lines certainly help.  And the signs that pop out of the fog.  And the few feet illumined in your headlights.

Beyond that it is trust. 

Believe it or not, I enjoyed my travels.  I was not frightened – I trusted the roadbuilder.  I arrived at my destination safely. 

Fear is best combated by faith!

This week is definitely on the road.  I began on Tuesday with a ride in to Saskatoon for our Senior Pastor’s Network.  The overnight retreat was great, refreshing and done in time to head home for our children’s club tonight.

Tomorrow morning I plan on being out of the house bright and early.  My goal is to be in Calgary by 11:00 (a four hour drive).  I’ll hang around Calgary area for a day or two and then head home early on Saturday morning.

Such travel used to drain both Jill and I.  Now I find the time in the car refreshing.  I play CD’s or just quietly think.  Those activities are rejuvenating for me. 

So tomorrow morning early I will be facing the west as I watch the sunrise from my rearview mirror.  Pray for safe travel and a great time at the inauguration of our President at our denominational school (Ambrose University College).