Someone sent me this illustration.  I don't know who came up with it or I would give credit.  It is not original from me.

A man was walking down the street when he passed an old man in a rocking chair on the front porch. On the porch was an old hound dog.

As the man walked by, he couldn't help but hear the dog was moaning and crying.

On his way back home, the man passed the same old man on the porch and the dog was still there and still moaning and groaning.

The man stopped and said, “Pardon me. I don't mean to intrude, but do you mind me asking why your dog keeps making those terrible sounds?”

“Sure,” said the old man. ”It's because he's lying on a nail.”

The man was shocked. ”Lying on a nail! Why doesn't he get up?”

“It hurts him bad enough to complain about it but not bad enough to get up and move.” the old man replied.

In keeping with the theme of the summer (if you were here for my sermon Sunday, this makes more sense)  I have had this sense all summer for a focus on Spiritual Growth.  I know that is a broad theme.  But are we working at growing in our relationship with Christ or are we just sitting still?

Are you uncomfortable enough to make a change or just OK with where you are at spiritually?  I know it can hurt or be uncomfortable to grow, but it is worth it.  Keep working on your faith/relationship with Christ.  It is extremely important.

PB