Crocodile Arms

     The wide receiver broke open across the middle but failed to fully extend to catch the quarterback's off-target throw.  "Looks like he has a bad case of the crocodile arms," says the TV commentator, explaining that the receiver failed to fully stretch for the ball fearing that he would get hit by the strong safety.
   
     Reminds me of many churches.

     Too many churches are afraid of the "hit" they will take in stretching out to win the lost.  Their outreach efforts are limited by short, "crocodile arms" that fail to extend to reach those people unlike themselves.

     That's why the Kingdom demands new churches and ministries to reach those who live outside the comfort zone of the typical, traditional church.  It takes all kinds of churches to reach all kinds of people.  Sadly, churches with the shortest arms are often the first to snap at efforts to begin new ways to reach outsiders with the Gospel that remains as relevant as ever to their needs.

     This Sunday morning a small group of us prayer walked and prayer drove through our neighborhoods.  Later,  during the 11 o'clock hour, I drove past most of the area churches and estimated   an attendance of maybe a thousand church attendees for an area of maybe 10,000 population (Springhill, Taylor, Cullen, and Sarepta area).  My suspicions were confirmed--less than 10 to 20% were in church this Sunday morning.  How many of this multitude would be welcomed in our near emptied church houses?

     Aren't you glad that Christ didn't grow crocodile arms when called upon to die on the cross.  During this transition of "Sabbatical Life" our prayers should focus on those who live within the reach of God's love but outside the reach of most churches.

     As we "Sabbatical Life" together, encourage one another to stretch to reach those Christ died for.

     Blessings,
     Tim

     Pray for us as we travel to spend time with family this week.  Wednesday evening at 6 pm, Mitch Stubblefield will lead a Bible study at the Carter Community Center (next door to the Wild Goose on main street).  Also, Sunday the Wild Goose will begin its first Sunday service at 4 pm.  On Thursday, Aug. 15, all are invited to our house.  Our first worship service at Trinity will be Saturday, Aug. 24th. Supper begins at 6Pm. Worship at 7.