t is a good thing to examine what our goals are and if we are being true to them in our actions. The world is a very distracting place. Our lives are busy and full of things we think we have to do to survive, or full of pleasurable things we simply enjoy. Either way, we often operate in a state of rampant activity without thinking of whether we are accomplishing anything we really care about or think is significant in the big picture of our life.

Our church family has spent the past several weeks in a study of Rick Warren's "Purpose Driven Life". We have emphasized the scriptural insights into our real reason for being on this planet and what the long-term results can be. We have to stop and take a look at what we expect to accomplish with all our flurry of activities and the result of continuing to live the way we are right now. We have to ask how continuing on the way we are will affect eternity for ourselves and those around us.

Christians are the ones who have received the ultimate gift from God and are blessed with the ultimate work to do for Him. Our activities and goals are focused on eternity and the journey from here to there. Since we have this knowledge of the Savior, Jesus Christ, we have the highest reason to do what God has called us to do. We are called to share what we know with those who don't know Him. The stakes are eternal. Our mission is clear. We are to be ambassadors for Christ.

Last Sunday at Hillside, we studied several ways God has uniquely prepared each person to carry the Message that saves to those around them in the very life they are living. He has gifted us by the Holy Spirit, our education, our experiences, our troubles, and our growing understanding of His Word. All these gifts make us exactly the way He wants us to be His voice where we need to be. Each of us is vital on our own place and in our own voice. No one else can be or say what we need to be or say but us.

The examination of our goals and activities is critical to see if we are following God's priorities. His always are built for the best eternal result. We have to follow the example of His Son, Jesus. He made His Father's goals and priorities His own. So should we.

Our Hillside Sweetheart Banquet will be Saturday, February 7th at 6:30 pm. This is always one of the richest fellowship opportunities we have. It celebrates the gift from God of our personal and family relationships. Dancy's will cater the dinner again this year. Registration is required. Call the church if you need more information.