I personally think one of the hardest things to do is to admit sin. It's hard to admit we have a weakness. That is probably why we see so few people go forward on Sunday mornings. People have a hard time sitting there admitting first of all that they are doing something wrong. Once they pass that hurdle it's even harder to admit it to someone close, let alone 300 someones. Why is it we share in each others happiness, but forget to share in each others sadness. Oh of course we share in some one's sufferings when they are in the hospital, if they are ill, or if they say they are struggling, but do we seek out those who are suffering and being quiet about it? I think for many of us we sit there and wait for something to happen. Maybe we just expect someone else to handle the problem. We all make excuses, myself included.

One thing we covered at the men's retreat this past weekend was to elevate unity in our local churches. I think unity starts at home. Ephesians 4:2 "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love". Do we show love to one another? Well of course we do, but do we feel comfortable enough to admit our sins to one another? I'd say no we don't. This last weekend I admitted all the sins I've committed this last 3-4 years. I couldn't believe it all left my mouth. It just came out and it was such a relief to share. It was like a burden was taken from my soul. It felt great. I felt a strong unity among the men that I shared with that I just had a warm fuzzy feeling come over me.

Romans 15:5-6, "May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." We have the opportunity with our home church and those relationships to admit to things that trouble our souls. We also have the opportunity to approach those who may need us, though they may not admit they need help. Proverbs 18:24 "A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother". I'm a very fortunate christian to know you. I'm very fortunate to have you in my life. My family is larger than I could of every expected it to be. Thank you for your strength and example you set before me. You have been a blessing to my life and my family.