2007 picture of Ray Sparre

Insightful Musings on the Scriptures

by

Raymond P. Sparre
Northwest University class of '67


October 17, 2012

Hello, folks.

The weather looks stable enough to carry on with that construction project. I sure didn’t get as much done there yesterday as hoped. I thought my compressor was healthy…but then it failed again. It now seems to be an intermittent motor problem. So one of the first objectives on my list for the day is to buy a new one. All around the monkey’s bench…that’s the way the money goes…pop goes the compressor. I think I mixed up the lines.

May your day be blessed…after you take some time to refurbish your own heart and mind in His Word.

Love, Dad/Ray.

17 October
1 Timothy 3
“Now the overseer must be above reproach…” 1 Timothy 3:2.

Reading this chapter could prompt one to reason, “This is not relevant for me personally—after all I’m not a pastor (overseer) or a deacon (church leader).” Hey—just a minute! Let’s understand that we have here a list of exemplary qualities to look for across the spread of the Body of Christ (The Church) that make one eligible for official positions of church leadership. They are, in fact, standards that should be upheld and pursued by all. I think it is appropriate to affirm that GOD DOES NOT EXPECT OR DESIRE MORE OF PASTORS AND DEACONS THAN HE DOES OF YOU.

In order for you and me to grade ourselves against the checklist of Christian qualities presented here by Paul, I will simply list the main ideas, putting some entries in my own words. Please bear in mind that this is not intended to be a guilt trip. Think of as a goal trip. To be sure, we can all confess to some sad violations in our past—but don’t let your past dictate your future.


“Goals are like stars: They may not be reached, but they can always be a guide.” ”