I figured out that I like to control things. A long

time ago, when I was in a Bible college, I remember thinking that

the pastor was in total control of the church. Now, that thought

made me laugh. For anyone but God, total control is nothing but an

illusion. But that still doesn't keep me from trying...and failing.

In John 15, Jesus prepared His disciples for His departure. For all

of you who are "control freaks" like me, Jesus gives us some very

simple instructions on how to be a follower of Christ. In short, he

says: "Stop trying to control things. Just Be!" That's a lot easier

said than done. But Jesus gives us some really helpful and

practical wisdom about relinquishing control and being - finding

the strength to "Just Be." A friend of mine sent this quote

yesterday. I think it's fitting for this Sunday's message. "Dear

God, I am so afraid to open my clenched fists! Who will I be when I

have nothing left to hold on to? Who will I be when I stand before

you with empty hands? Please help me to gradually open my hands and

to discover that I am not what I own, but what you want to give me.

And what you want to give me is love, unconditional, everlasting

love. Amen." - Henri J.M. Nouwen