The Waters of Life

Elders, 

I know you deal with people who want forgiveness despite Christ and not because of Him. This reminds me of the fourth book of Narnia in the he second chapter...

“Are you not thirsty?” said the Lion.

“I'm dying of thirst,” said Jill.

“Then drink,” said the Lion.

“Will you promise not to—do anything to me, if I do come?” said Jill.

“I make no promise,” said the Lion.

Jill was so thirsty now that, without noticing it, she had come a step nearer.

“Do you eat girls?” she said.

“I have swallowed up girls and boys, women and men, kings and emperors, cities and realms,” said the Lion. It didn't say this as if it were boasting, nor as if it were sorry, nor as if it were angry. It just said it.

“I daren't come and drink,” said Jill.

“Then you will die of thirst,” said the Lion.

“Oh dear!” said Jill, coming another step nearer. “I suppose I must go and look for another stream then.”

“There is no other stream,” said the Lion.

It never occurred to Jill to disbelieve the Lion—no one who had seen his stern face could do that—and her mind suddenly made itself up. It was the worst thing she had ever had to do, but she went forward to the stream, knelt down, and began scooping up water in her hand.

It was the coldest, most refreshing water she had ever tasted."

The gospel leads us to the Water of Life but we must face the Loion of Judah. That can be terrifying depending on you. Do you approach with fear or faith? Do you see your execution or redemption? 

Elders, your converts should see a Redeemer. That's not easy. The pleasent bar of Christ (the judgement bar) should be something we look forward to. Bless your students with your testimony and pray for them. It will come to those that recognize their thirst and will face the Lion in their weakness with humility.

Be patient with those that struggle. We all have those moments. Remember I love you as your Uncle. I pray for you. Be good and do good. 

Uncle Nate.