An Urgent Prayer Request

Tuesday afternoon, June 17, 2008
It has been so long since I have written on of my “perspectives” that I wonder if I even have one. I do remember telling you that I would continue the one I entitled “Privileges of Grace” but forget that for now. One day, soon, I will regroup and continue it—hopefully.
As for today, my mind is preoccupied with concern for a dear friend who is going through a very tough time in his life and ministry. Most of you have heard me say this before (or something akin to it!) but there is a malignancy in the institution we call “the church” and slowly but surely it is metastasizing like wildfire. Like every malignancy, it is wreaking havoc in the lives of those who are part of the Body of Christ, a havoc that is most-often the fruit of a root of bitterness that springs up within the Body and creates much division, division that leaves the Body bleeding and wounded.
I am going to be bold enough to name this malignancy. Are you ready? LEGALISM! Most think I make too much fuss over this but the truth is, I don’t think I make nearly enough fuss over it. This present situation is an example of how a single legalistic mind can wreak havoc and bring division. To be sure, the metastasis occurs faster than a “speeding bullet” and before you know it, many become infected. You see, legalism sounds so much like the truth, especially to the untrained eye, that most accept it as truth; however, it is anything but truth, and you can take that to the bank.
Anyway, I am writing this to ask you to pray for my friend—fervently pray for him!—especially that the Holy Spirit will douse him with God’s wisdom. My prayer is and will continue to be simple: May the love of God constrain him; may the joy of the Lord be his strength; and may the peace that passes ALL understanding be his in fullest measure!
Our God is, indeed, an awesome God!!

Blessings with thanksgiving,
Mac