I’ve recently had to jettison some people from my offices with the memory that they seemed satisfied with an effort  to turn my face away from my Father. I care about them; I really do. but their presence created a form of miasma that needs to be lifted (perhaps up, but certainly out).

meanwhile, God keeps answering something that I’ve often claimed to pray over – always putting the right people in front of me (and maybe removing the wrong people. but, not clear on that part of the equation, just yet).

one thing I am quite certain about is that over the past year I’ve inspired myself; and, more so myself, likely than you, my hearty and ferocious readers, with stories about how I am affected by men of faith. for example: where prayer rules convergence.

I don’t want to be referred to as a Christian (this Blog is full of stories and examples of that, and why). and, I think that has been my issue for a few years now. I’ve met too many that make me want to use the word “smarmy”. and, Christians don’t own God, or have dibs. there is a lot of good news when it comes to God, and one of my favorites is that most of the major faiths on this planet share the commitment there is a one and true God. it’s the Christ element that complicates matter, or begs the argument that creates the forum for awareness.

but, they don’t have to affect my relationship with Him, and the type of people He wants me to influence, and be influenced by.

in any event, I got one of those annoyingly sincere emails from Todd Miechiels. Todd, is rather like Tim Barker in that they are just awe-shucks sold-out for the Lord. Tim struggles in the material world (in terms of bounty) a bit whereas God seems determined to bless Tim (and, Tim has the tithing thing drilled-down to a form of science. but then, I think Chip Brackley may as well). so, I need to pay attention to all the indicators. so… back to Todd’s email:

On Apr 22, 2011, at 6:23 PM, tmiechiels@mac.com wrote:

“I’ve given this some thought over the last few days.

All artful dodging and crafty wordsmanship aside, I’m confident we are discussing Jesus Christ in this exchange.

Over the course of my own discourse with God this morning I asked Him to help me sort through this. The words that came into my own head were something like: I want Him to be my Savior. I want Him to want me.

I had some artful (ugh… I used that word twice in a message) words prepared with this response. But, given the circumstances, they likely aren’t required.

So, my simple answer for you is: yes.

My on-going dialogue with God tends to be a bit more complicated. But, I’m comfortable we are basically on the same page and reaching an accord.

Happy Easter. And, thank you, sincerely, for the message.

Brian”

my plans are fairly simple today. I’m going to be grateful that I may have enough sense (it’s that discernment thing) to be grateful. I’m hopeful I can get Emma Jo in the yard (the same yard where she hunted for Easter Eggs this morning) and work on her corner kicks. and, I want to wash the cars.

…just keep it simple.

many things in life are simple; just not always easy. but, cliche aside, sometimes that’s part of what makes life end-up being better.

Thank you God, for, well, everything. and, by all means, please keep the right people coming my way.

peace be to my Brothers and Sisters.

brian patrick cork