Slideshow image

I am not overly sentimental by nature, as I believe a "balanced detachment" is a healthy, eternal principle to live by regarding possessions in this life. 

That said, I have had my Tacoma acoustic guitar (pre-Fender buyout) for almost 20 years now. I bought it from an angry dad in Phoenix whose son had not taken great care of it. I got an incredible deal on an all-wood, American-made guitar with some cosmetic blemishes.

This guitar has moved through three states with me. This guitar was what backed my daughters' first special. This guitar was used to write songs for my wife. Through the course of "horse swapping" stuff, I ended up with a nicer Martin acoustic electric guitar, and the Tacoma is superfluous.

Tacomas are interesting in that those who own them have an insane over-evaluation of their dollar value that the rest of the guitar market does not share... so, I am not selling it for much money. 

I've had it on Marketplace for a minute and had tepid interest—until this past week. A guy in MI wants me to ship it to him, no questions asked. I've done my due diligence to see if he is a scammer, and it seems he is a legitimate dude who really wants a pre-Fender Tacoma.

I do not want to go through the hassle of shipping it and digital payments, as I would prefer to just meet up at the Speedway with someone. In fact, I told him I was not interested in doing that.

Here is the thing... this guy messages me every day. I have his address, PayPal, etc. He researched the weight and then went to UPS for shipping prices. He sent me an article on how he would like it shipped.

At this point, it seems like I will be shipping a guitar.

It got me thinking about his persistence for an inexpensive guitar vs. my diligence in inviting folks for Good Friday and Easter this upcoming week.

  • Am I seeking folks out like he did this guitar?
  • Am I communicating consistently with them about it?
  • Am I letting any barriers stop me?
  • Am I willing to let a "no thank you" stop me?
  • Am I willing to be vulnerable and even get burned to make it happen?

The wonderful and enjoyable reality that Christ is risen is a truth we enjoy each day, year-round, as His followers. If this week grants us a significant opportunity (in our culture) to expose people to that message (and, more importantly, the God-Man), what will we be willing to do to make that happen?

  • Maybe we should set aside a set time to go invite our neighborhood (or invite them again)? Grab 15 flyers on Sunday to hand out!
  • Maybe we are going to grab lunch with a coworker (your treat) to catch up and then invite them? Have the website ready to text (includefaith.org/easter)
  • Maybe make a social media push and invite your friends to the events (Good Friday & Hope Is Not Defeated)?
  • Maybe ask your young adults or kids who they are praying for this week about showing up? Pray for them, by name, each day together.

My guitar will likely find a new home by the end of this week, and some random dude in MI will rejoice.

Could some soul find the hope of an eternal home with Christ due to our efforts and prayers this week?

Serving together,
Pastor Paul