At the March Presbytery meeting, an amazing thing happened. It was, once again, a vote on a controversial topic that threatens to tear apart the denomination, so emotions were running high. People were speaking, debating, praying, and getting ready to vote. The outcome would mean a winning side, a losing side, and more negativity. There was a feeling of apprehension and anxiety in the air. People were saying the same battle lines over and over. But then it happened.

In addition to “THE TOPIC”, we had a mission speaker (Rev. Doug Baker) who reminded us that whatever the result of the vote, there are good things happening in this denomination, and we have an important ministry. In particular, he talked about an incredible mission program for young people.

It got me thinking. Yes there are problems within our denomination, within our presbytery, within our congregation. There are problems with our jobs, our schools, our nation, our government, even our families. But instead of always looking at what is wrong, let’s consider what is right.

What is right with…
Our denomination
Our presbytery
Our congregation
Our pastor
Our ministries
Our jobs
Our families
Our homes
Our communities

What is right? So here is the challenge. During the month of May, I want each of us to consider what is right. Each day think about one good thing you experienced, or one good thing going on in any of the above list (or your own list). Maybe you can write it in a journal. Perhaps around the dinner table families can share one good thing that happened that day. Couples can pray together at the end of the day, giving thanks for one thing that is right. Maybe we can even post some on the bulletin board, or give a brief testimony or praise during worship for what is right.

On Sunday April 19th, I preached about making efforts to be positive, loving Christians – showing the world Jesus. This would be a great way to do this – to seek out what is right.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things (Philippians 4:8).