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A quote every once in a while just hits you on the forehead.  This is a short quote from USA Today at Easter time called "Has the notion of sin been lost".  The article has previously been talking about merely helping people change without them recognizing the root of sin as a problem in their lives.

The Rev. Michael Horton, professor of theology at Westminster Seminary in Escondido, Calif., calls this "moral therapy."

"It’s changing your lifestyle to receive God’s favor," Horton says. "It’s not heaven in the hereafter but happiness here and now. But it is still up to you to make it happen."

He finds sad truth in an old newspaper headline he once saw: " ‘To hell with sin when being good is enough.’ That’s the drift of American preaching today in a lot of churches. People know what sin is; they just don’t believe in it anymore. We mix up happiness and holiness, and God is no longer the reference point."

In other words, he asks, if you can solve your problems or sins yourself, what difference does it make that Christ was crucified?

People have to see themselves as sinners — ultimately alienated from God and unable to save themselves — for Christ’s sacrifice to be essential, Horton says. "(The apostle) Paul didn’t see Easter as therapy."

Just took a look out the window.  Wildlife running rampant!!

Some days just need to be filled with God, friends and fun.  That, I suppose, is what Sunday should be about.

Today, strangely enough, shared just that.  I think in the busyness of life, and the decades of church work, Sunday has too easily become just another day.  Not every Sunday, not every week, not every time.

But today was just enjoyable.  I sang with friends in worship of God.  I preached of truths I’m constantly learning.  I sat at meal with new acquaintances and old friends.  I rested for an hour.  I chatted with a friend and had another just drop in.  A couple bought us ice cream sundaes.  And another old friend (OK, she wouldn’t say she’s that old!) came across us at a fast food joint.  Finally, the day ended with the movie, “Saving Sarah Cain”, a God movie which provokes thought.

In all, not a bad day.  A great day to start my new week!!

The weather is beautiful, the grass is growing (I just cut it a few days ago), and people are out on the streets.  Picked up three shirts for $15.00 at an outdoor sale.  Enjoyed talking to friends and strangers.  And now I’m off to BBQ a hotdog.

Life doesn’t get much better than this!!