In my books there are few things I enjoy more than a well run and truly meaningful meeting. On the other, there are few things I dread more than meetings that are characterized by inadequate preparation, lack of structure, contention or failure to come to any meaningful conclusion.
This week I had the distinct pleasure of attending two excellent planning sessions and I'm looking forward to at least two more of the same kind by Friday. I figure at my age I am not going to willingly spend precious time sitting around a table fighting over something that was supposed to facilitate progress and improvement. Life isn't all roses but why deliberately walk on thorns. Bring on the pleasure that comes with giving and receiving good news!
This week our mayor called a press conference to do just that, announce some very good news: New employers, big projects, millions of dollars being invested and a hefty boost to employment numbers. It was enough to draw plenty of applause and genuine excitement to a room full of citizens. As one of the prominent business leaders in our community remarked afterwards, "All the hard work has finally paid off".
In a time when not much but bad news seems to be circling the globe, how we long for relief. A cure for Ebola? Bring it on! An antidote for the hatred and cruelty of war? If only there was an answer, simple or otherwise! After a number of years of economic challenges it's no wonder our community is relieved and rejoicing at the prospect of new jobs and investment.
As followers of Jesus Christ we have an even greater privilege, that of sharing the good news of God's love.
"So they set out and went from village to village, proclaiming the good news." (Luke 9:6 NIV)
