One of most prized possessions in the world is a knife that my grandfather carried.  Though there are many other very important people, ideas, and hopes in my life, I argue that one of my most important belongings is the knife that my grandfather carried.

This knife is a black, wood grained, well used knife.  Its blade’s dull shine created the only way it can by the many jobs that a knife can do.  Its primary purpose was to cut.  Divide something that is singular and make it plural.  But knives, as many know, can be used as screw drivers, wedges, and finger nail cleaners.  And all that fits right in your pocket.  Simplicity, function and form all fit neatly in a three inch folding knife. 

At one point the three inch bald became a mere two inches.  Though I was never told how, I had always imagined that is was worn so short because Grandpa sharpened it so much.  But I really suspect that it was from misuse and broke off in some way.  Instead of throwing it out, he just sharpened it again to a fine edge ready to be used and misused all over again.

The knife itself holds no value in the most understood way.  It can’t be sold for lots and lots of money because it is a collector’s piece or was used by a famous person.  Rather its value comes from the fact it was used by a very good man (a man that I think very highly of.)  God looks to each of us and sees the value that we hold.  Broken and misused, whole and mature, all are precious in His sights as the song goes. 

We are God’s wonderfully made creation.  LPCC is made up of wonderfully made and valuable folks that love God and support one another.  Let’s look for things that we value in this church.  Name three of your best ones.  What are things that you value about LPCC? And Please let me know what they are!  I can’t wait to hear what you’ve got to say.

Also make a second list this time about yourself.  What are three things that you value about yourself?  Review them in your prayers this week thanking God for these things.

Grace, peace, and much love,

Rev. Brian