Every year the South Carolina Baptist Convention hosts a barbecue lunch for the members of the state House and Senate.  Joe Mack, who works with our state convention, invites some of us to come to Columbia to be a part of this event.  The purpose is to let them know that we are praying for them and that we care about what they are doing.  South Carolina Baptists represent a large group of voters.  Our churches represent over 600,000 people.

This is not a political event.  It is just a time to talk with them and get to know them a little better.
Every legislator I talked to mentioned how tough the work is going to be this year.  I was reminded of the fact that our problems are not going to be fixed by a legislative system whether it is on the state or national level.

As followers of Christ, we have a lot to bring to the table.  We serve a risen Savior and He is not overwhelmed by our challenges.  We must constantly live with our eyes fixed on Him.  I tried to encourage a number of these guys today and reminded them that we will come out of this time by following him.  That is not just true in terms of government.  It also applies to every area of life.

These days it is very easy to find someone that will speak negatively on a number of issues.  We ought to be the type of people that recognize the challenges, but at the same time, walk with an attitude that reflects the fact that we are victorious in Christ Jesus.