2 Feb, 2009
Centerville, Utah - It was an odd scene in one Carls Jr. restaurant on Friday afternoon when a crowd gathered to memorialize and pay tribute to an old friend. Individuals spoke of his faithfulness to them and his support and commitment to the restaurant. Besides how strange it seemed to hold a "funeral" in a fast food restaurant, even more bizarre was the subject of the service: a toilet. "John," as he was affectionately called, was shot dead when a customer's gun fell from its holster and discharged, while the man was pulling up his pants. The toilet died on impact when it shattered into countless pieces.
Story courtesty of www.deseretnews.com, 2/1/09
Image courtesy of googleimages
Putting Johnny On the Spot
Hebrews 12:1-2
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
What does today's God Story scripture teach us about remaining faithful?
Wow! Talk about a poopy job! Who would've thought that a toilet, of all things, would have individuals gathering to testify of its faithfulness and a job well done?! But I supposed it's true: he served his purpose, to the very end. The book of Hebrews is full of those God recognizes for their faithfulness to Him and to their calling - individuals, like Moses who served God his entire life, then died never even setting foot in the Promise Land. It seems like such a waste, doesn't it? But Moses knew that God was bigger than that. He knew that God had called him, he had a purpose, and he set out to fulfill it.
Similarly, God sent His son, Jesus, with a purpose. Jesus knew what he was doing when he came to earth as an infant. He knew his purpose and, as verse 12 says, "for the joy set before him," he "endured the cross, scorning its shame." Despite the hardships and shame, Jesus placed himself in the lowliest position, and persevered. He remained faithful to his Father and to his calling, even to the point of death, because He knew that God had a plan.
How can I connect today's God's Story scripture to my life?
- Start by being real wth God and yourself - ask yourself this question: "What is hindering me from accomplishing the purpose God has for me? Is there sin in my life that has a hold on me and is keeping me glorifying God with all that I am?" Pray and confess those things to God, then ask Him to release you from such things.
- Stay mindful of the things God is calling you to and remain faithful to them, even when it gets hard! Remember that God has a bigger plan than what you can see and understand and allow your faith in Him to help you persevere.
How can I connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and my story to others?
- Talk to your friends about what they think their purpose in life is. You may be surprised at how many people just don't know (or don't believe) that their life can have a bigger purpose! Share what you believe your purpose is and explain the role Christ plays in that.
- Share the story about the memorial service for the toilet - ask your friends what they think people might say about them and who they are, if they were to die today.
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