Grace, for the Chief of Sinners, and Fred Phelps
As of this writing, Fred Phelps is still alive, but the message will remain the same upon his eventual passing.
I’ve been seeing an alarming amount of posts on social media outlets, rejoicing about the coming death of Phelps. The majority of these people are people who would claim a relationship with Christ.
I am deeply saddened by this.
Immediately I’m reminded of 1 John 4:20. I’ll paraphrase it, You’re a liar if you say you love God, but hate your brother. (You might not agree that Phelps is your brother, but humor me.)
Proverbs tells us that hatred stirs discord/strife. As a Christian, your response should never employ hatred. Ever. There should be no desire for revenge, or payback.
Do I agree with the Westboro Baptist Church?
Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop
Recently, I had the opportunity to sleep in a truck in the middle of a highway. I wouldn’t suggest it.
First, I’ll give you a little background on the situation and myself. I work with a women’s ministry called The Blush Network. We travel and put on conferences in various states and cities around the country. We aim to hit every major city at some point.
A few of our team members fly out, and others drive. I got the privilege to drive from Dallas, Texas in a truck with a couple other team members. Our destination was Lynchburg, VA. We had a conference on campus at Liberty University.
Fast forward, conference goes well, great attendance and speakers. The Gospel of Jesus was presented and many souls were captured by Him. Fast forward again, we’re hitting Arkansas on the trip back. BOOM, rain hits. I think, no big deal. Then the rain turns slushy, and the temperature drops. Uh oh.
Suddenly, the roads turn icy. Like solid sheet of ice, and we’re towing a trailer. Turns out, we drive around 200 miles on solid ice, all in all. Scariest trip of my life.
This is where my appreciation for 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 comes into play. Specifically the part in verse 17; PRAY WITHOUT CEASING.
This passage is talking about our conduct as Christians. With each other, and apart from each other, our conduct is important. I have a completely renewed perspective on this passage. During this 200 mile ordeal, I think I prayed more nonstop than I ever have.
We were losing traction if we hit any incline, bridge, or overpass; it was terrifying. We petitioned the name of Jesus the entire trip.
Suddenly, traffic stops all around us. I mean DEAD STOP. We sit for what seems like an eternity. Two hours goes by and I sleep a little. I wake up and finally we’re moving again, but the roads are even icier. It’s had time to refreeze.
We’re moving at about 12 mph and still have 100 miles to go to get to our destination. We’re calling hotels in the surrounding areas looking to just take refuge for the night. None have vacancy.
We end up sleeping for a couple hours in the parking lot of a hotel in 12 degree weather. It was invigorating.* (*awful)
So all in all, our normally 18-hour trip turned into about 27 or so hours, I’m just glad I didn’t have to cut my arm off like in 127 Hours.
Scripture is important, and what it says are not suggestions. When Scripture says to pray without ceasing, or to quit sinning, or help the weak, it’s a command.
I have a newfound appreciation for this concept, because God saw us through a potentially life ending ordeal.
Our petitions to Him do not fall on deaf ears. However, keep in mind, that Scripture also says to do nothing out of selfish ambition. So, our prayer life should be from a place of humility.
Also, look for me on the next episode of Ice Road Truckers: Dallas Edition. Just kidding.