A research study recently asked 100 Japanese and American students to write on a sheet of paper the decisions that they would like to make for themselves. On the other side they were asked to write down decisions they preferred others choose for them.

When Americans wrote their entries for decisions they preferred to make themselves, the page was filled quickly. It included items such as where to live and the type of job they would pursue. The flip side was almost empty; the only decision most Americans wanted to pass along to someone else was the time of their death.

The Japanese had very different results, filling up the side with the things they preferred others would choose for them, including what they wore, what time they would awaken, and their occupation.

The researchers concluded that Americans desired to make their own choices four times more than the Japanese. David Brooks, a New York Times columnist, notes: "Americans now have more choices over more things than any other culture in human history." He adds that it is "becoming incredibly important to learn to decide well."

Our Lenten series “Greater Than” is all about choice. We have studied how God > Self, God > Community, Generosity > Greed. This Sunday we will consider God > Discouragement. We can choose to embrace God, or we can choose the alternative. Please read Hebrews 12 to discover how God offers us strength when we feel discouraged.

Sunday worship is another choice; I hope that you will choose to join us this Sunday. Invite a friend to join you!

Peace,

Pastor Cathy Johns