Amazing Difference

We often talk about the difference God makes in our lives, but last week in Cuba we saw the reality of just that. The vast majority of Cuban people walk through life with no expression of joy. As you pass them on the streets they do not respond to "Buenos Dias", or any other greeting. For them it is try and make it through another day. Of course living under communism and socialism has left them with an average monthly salary of about $15. Yet the cost of goods was equal to what you and I would pay here in America. For example, a 14 cubic ft. refrigerator costs about $750 Cuban dollars. Try buying that on a salary of $15 a month.

It was amazing to see the difference in Cuban people when we gathered for church. They live under the same conditions as everyone else in Cuba, yet you could see a joy in their faces that others did not have. They smiled, they sang, and they gave praise. The difference? Jesus. It was amazing to see such a stark difference between someone who was not a Christian and someone who was.

I wonder today has Christ really made a difference in our lives? While the average American has so much more than the average Cuban, the fact remains that when a person does not know Christ it shows not only in their expressions. While we may do a better job of covering up our emptiness, the truth is without Christ we are just as empty as everyone else. I challenge you today if you know Christ do not let your passion for Him fade. Stay close, keep learning and keep praying. If you take inventory and you realize you do not know Him, let me encourage you to call on Him today and ask Him to change your heart.

I look forward to being back with you Sunday. Since it's the Sunday prior to Thanksgiving I'll be sharing a message on gratitude. I'll also show some pictures of our Cuba trip. We saw around 100 - 130 persons accept Christ. What is equally important is that every one of those who said yes to Christ are going to be followed up with by a neighbor who will teach them what it means to be a disciple of Christ. Thank you for praying for us, God really did bless. By the way - if you've never been on a mission trip you need to go. It will not only change the lives of those you visit but it will change your life. Don't forget we are always on mission whether it be in Cuba, our neighborhood, at school or at work.

On another note - we will have a Business Meeting on Sunday, December 2 at 6:00 pm. We'll vote on the 2019 budget, which is available for you to preview at the Upper Lobby Kiosk as well as the North Lobby Kiosk.

See you Sunday and stay dry,

Pastor Carl