Matters of the Heart
Dear friends and family of Hilton Baptist Church,
As most of you know by now I recently had a medical procedure called a heart ablation. As I write this I am home sitting on the couch “taking it easy” per instructions from the doctor and insistence from my loving wife. Most of the people I spoke with prior to my heart ablation told me “It is a fairly common and standard procedure. You’ll be fine.” Thankfully they were right and I want to thank all of you for your concerns, support and prayers.
However, while others seemed to have little concern over the procedure I will admit I had moments of uncertainty. It was a bit unsettling to know a doctor would place a wire into my groin, send it into my beating heart and then perform the procedure. This may be a fairly common treatment but going into a beating heart (especially when its mine) can be unsettling.
I’ve had some extra time on my hands and this has given me the opportunity to reflect in this experience. Here are a few things I have been reminded of and not necessarily in order of importance:
- As difficult as it is, sometimes I need to let go and trust. Probably like most people I prefer to be in control of my surroundings. However, I must continue to trust God more than I trust myself.
- For something to be fixed you’ve got to go to the heart of the matter. Too often it is too easy to place a band-aid over an issue that is much more serious and hope that it fixes the problem. This happens all the time both in our personal lives and even in churches.
- Sometimes God allows a problem to exist so you can be reminded of the important people and things in your life. We have a remarkable tendency to take everyone and everything we love for granted.
- At times, it is selfish not to allow good people to help you. God has given others the heart, desire, gifts and skills to help you. Why rob them of the calling and ministry God has placed on their hearts?
- Hilton Baptist Church has a big heart. I am consistently amazed at the outpouring of love we show to others. We are not a perfect church nor will we ever be. However, the heart of this church is both courageous in following God and compassionate in serving others.
Thank you again for the love and support you have shown. May our hearts continue to be strong for Jesus, filled with the Spirit, and poured out for each other and others.
With Love,
Dan
Categories: Pastors Message