Reflections from the Nation of Texas

Yesterday I returned from Dallas, Texas. Though I could spend my time teasing Texans for thinking they live in a modern Utopia or for naming all their sons names like Colton, Weston, and Wyatt, I'll refrain out of love for my Texas brethren.

I was in Texas for a week preaching at a high school church camp for my good friend and former mentor Drew Svendson. It was wonderful to see Drew and to have the opportunity to bring the Word of God to students once again. I never tire of this great calling.

As I reflect upon my time in Texas I am convinced once again about the truth of our Lord's saying, "No one can come to me unless the Father draws him..." (John 6:44). The camp this week was full of sorrowful celebration. It was celebration because I had the opportunity to see students moved by the Spirit through the sung and preached word. I saw hearts of stone melted and blind eyes opened. Eternity will not be the same on account of the work of God this past week.

The camp was sorrowful, on the other hand, because some students refused to open their hearts to the gospel. We preached, prayed, listened, and loved, but some students simply would not repent of their sin and trust Christ.

It is simply amazing. Two brothers can come to the same camp, from the same church, and the same school, and the same home and hear the same message. One's heart is open and the others closed. 

No one comes to Christ apart from the miraculous work of the Father. I will preach, I will celebrate, I will cry, and I will trust God. He is working all things together for the praise of his glorious grace. Let us praise him!