No Name

“There is one...God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”

by Kyle Spradley, National Director

I attended New Wineskins and arrived early to set up SOMA’s exhibit. We produced new marketing materials and had them shipped directly to the conference. When I attempted to claim the packages, one box was missing. However, UPS maintained that all boxes arrived the day before. I searched the conference center, and asked a few staff members. Sadly, it was nowhere to be found. Heavy-hearted, I moved forward with setting up SOMA’s display. As I lay in bed that night, I allowed my mind to race, creating all types of negative scenarios. Where was my faith? 

The next morning, SOMA facilitated a pre-conference led by Archbishop Miguel Uchoa. When we broke for lunch, I went to SOMA’s exhibit for supplies. As I approached the table, I saw a long box leaning against it. Guess what it was? SOMA’s brand new banner! When I looked at the label, there wasn’t a recipient name other than the conference center. “no name” was written in Sharpie on the top. With over 60 exhibitors, how did the box labeled “no name” end up on my table? 

Here’s the lesson, “There is one...God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” It doesn’t matter the context or situation; God is there. I repented for doubting Him. I view faith as a verb, an action word. Like a muscle, it requires use and exercise to grow. Again, It was revealed to me that emotions are not trustworthy. If allowed, they will push us into all sorts of falsehoods (“My banner is lost”). But thanks be to God, His word is immutable, singularly pointing us in one direction, truth. Paul echoed the Psalmist when he wrote, “Everyone who puts their trust in Him will never be put to shame.” We have to choose to believe it, or not. It’s that simple, and also that challenging. Fortunately, we are never left alone. God promises to complete the good work He began in us. To that end, let us pray. Father, fill us afresh with your Spirit, that we may walk in His power to trust You in every aspect of our lives. In Jesus name, amen. Repeat often!