"Packin" for Jesus !!!!

In light of the church shootings in Colorado yesterday I would imagine by now that the great theological minds of our time are set to debate. Church administrators (who don’t usually have Mondays off) are searching out former TSA workers to bolster their staff. Businesses are already considering the great expansion of metal detection equipment and x-ray machines set up in church foyers. Pulpit manufacturers have their plans for the “shield”, and pews are being fitted with armor plating behind the fancy, soft cushions. Our major automobile manufactures are pressing their design teams to come up with the “ultimate in safety” minivan for Christian families to drive to and from church, complete with bullet proof glass, armor plating & GPS tracking, And of course, for that long walk to and from the sanctuary, the fully armed, former SWAT team member, “security” employee in his high speed, armor plated golf cart.

Now this may sound a bit “out there”, but with the progression of events that we see happening all around us today I truly wonder……. where does it all end in regard to “peace and safety”! Paul reminded his readers within the “church” at Thessalonica that these days were coming;

1 Thessalonians 5:3 While they are saying, "Peace and safety!" then destruction will come upon them suddenly like labor pains upon a woman with child, and they will not escape.

He also reminded them of something else;

1 Thessalonians 5:4-6 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day would overtake you like a thief; for you are all sons of light and sons of day. We are not of night nor of darkness; so then let us not sleep as others do, but let us be alert and sober.

Paul was writing and speaking to them as one who knew what he was talking about. If there was anyone in scripture who could have used “security” personnel with him on his travels it was Paul.

2 Corinthians 11:24-28 Five times I received from the Jews thirty-nine lashes. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, a night and a day I have spent in the deep. I have been on frequent journeys, in dangers from rivers, dangers from robbers, dangers from my countrymen, dangers from the Gentiles, dangers in the city, dangers in the wilderness, dangers on the sea, dangers among false brethren; I have been in labor and hardship, through many sleepless nights, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure. Apart from such external things, there is the daily pressure on me of concern for all the churches.

But, I venture to say, he had the greatest “security” Person with him 24/7, just like his brother David;

Psalm 4:8 In peace I will both lie down and sleep, For You alone, O LORD, make me to dwell in safety.

Now I ask you………..how far will you go for “peace & safety”. And who is your “peace and safety” guy?

Think about it! And then think about taking a risk and “being the church” instead of searching out the ultimate “safe” church to “go to”.

Are you “packin” your bag for Jesus………or are you “packin” something else!