All In

I’m not a poker player.  I don’t think I’ve even played a single hand in my life.  But there has been a time or two when I’ve seen the World Series of Poker on ESPN.  I’m intrigued by that moment in any poker showdown when a player sizes up his cards, takes a deep breath, and with both hands slowly shoves the whole pile of chips to the center of the table.  It’s a calculated choice.  It’s a moment in which the player’s survival in the match rests on the fate of a few cards.  He’s all in.  That takes guts.  And faith.  And a bit of luck.

            Each one of us gets to that moment at one point or another.  It’s the moment when we cast our vote, we throw our hat in the ring, we totally commit….to something.  You see it when a basketball is flying out of bounds and a player goes flying into the  first row of seats to try and keep the ball in play.  You see it when a young violinist spends 12 hours practicing everyday, preparing for a world premiere she may never see.  You see it when the alcoholic has lost everything and decides that it’s time to get in rehab and clean up.  We all have our moments.  The question is, what are we committed to?  When do we go “all in?”

            

God calls each of us into relationship with Him.  But it isn’t some take-it-or-leave-it, only-on-Sabbath, part-time relationship.  He invites to be “all in” with Him.  He longs for a 24/7, always open connection that transforms our lives.  It’s scary.  It’s intimidating.  It’s invigorating. 

This weekend we’re exploring more about what it means to be “All In” with God.   You don’t want to miss it.  I hope to see you there.  Sunnyside.  Saturday.  11:20.

Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. ~~ Romans 12:1