Hub Centered

“Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure . . . think about such things.” Phil 4:8

G’day! Australia is a huge and enthralling sunburnt continent that hosts some fascinating critters. The landscape upon which the unique flora and fauna are displayed is unlike any other part of the world. Take for instance the famous “island mountain” out in the desert center of the landmass. Ayers Rock, or Uluru as it has become known in recent times, looks as if a meteorite just thudded into the otherwise barren sandy landscape. The scale of this monolith is impressive – 1,142 feet high (10 Kearney water towers) and 5.8 miles wide (the distance north from I-80 to the turn-off to Riverdale or Hwy 40). That is a monster chunk of rock in anyone’s book! As Aussie people of faith have reflected on the symbolism of this centerpiece they have connected the Bible referring to God as “the Rock” and have prayed that God would truly be the rock at the center of Australian life. A powerful image!

Moving to Kearney some years ago I have encountered another reference to “centering”. It was a geographic one that our local newspaper recognized when naming its publication the Kearney Hub in 1888. They wanted to tout the fact that our town was the “hub” or center of the continent as it was situated 1,733 miles from both Boston and San Francisco. The question has not been answered however as to what strategic message our town would want to broadcast to our great nation from this hub. What is of core worth that is imperative to reinforce in the lives of our people?

I hope that Kearney will stand for all that is praiseworthy about the American dream. Most of all I pray that Kearney will promote a love and respect for all human life no matter what age or stage. In a global climate that is morphing to value only the “quality of life”, may we esteem the “sanctity of life”. May we be a blessing to our State and this nation as a “hub of holiness”. By holiness I do not mean self-righteousness but pure love for all of God’s creation. In this season of Lent, that begins today, will you pray with me that God will search and purify our hearts and further develop a hunger for holiness.