Ice collecting

Our youngest daughter, Emma, has recently started collecting icicles and other sorts of ice. She especially likes to find ice with bubbles in it. She understands that the ice won't last, but still likes it.

I began to think about the fact that all of us are collectors of one kind or another. Some collect money or stuff, others relationships, and still others collect accolades or recognition. Many ministers "collect" church members, church facilities, offerings or speaking engagements. Some even collect "miracles" or new converts.

We all have things that we value. And that's not a bad thing, as long as our priorities and our value system are based on the right things. But we can't allow our "collections" to determine our value. So many people consider themselves either a success or failure based on the size of their "collections."

If we allow ourselves to fall into this trap, we are setting ourselves up for failure. This will lead to weak leadership, at best, and in the worst-case scenario, compromise.

We need to remember that we are accepted and complete through our relationship with Christ (Col. 2:10). It is this connection that gives us true value. As a matter of fact, one of the best things spiritual leaders can do is to develop this relationship, and develop a deeper understanding of this relationship. I encourage you to take some time this week to ask God to reveal the wonders of this relationship to you.