Think Twice About It
A Pastoral Reflection on Decision, Discipleship, and the Words of Christ
An Unexpected Tragedy in Sussex, NJ
As a pastor in Sussex, NJ, I witnessed a community shaken to its core by a tragic and public loss. A high school student, in a split-second decision to pass a car, collided head-on with another vehicle and died instantly. The shock wave of this event rippled through families, friends, and especially the local high school, leaving deep grief and unanswered questions.
The day of the funeral, the magnitude of the loss became strikingly clear. Over a thousand people packed the church and nearby streets; so many attended the viewing that roads had to be closed to accommodate the countless cars. The line to pay respects stretched from the church entrance out into the street, and I, though a visitor and not from this congregation, stood in that line for nearly four hours, waiting to share in the community’s sorrow and offer my condolences to the family.
A Father’s Pain and a Simple Warning
Inside the church, the young man’s family stood beside the casket, receiving wave after wave of sympathizers. Though the air was thick with sorrow, there was something about the father’s presence that drew my attention. As each young person approached, he would speak—a short phrase, always the same four words. As I drew closer, I finally heard him say, “Think twice about it.”
Those words echoed in my mind long after I left the church. The father was urging the young people—indeed, all of us—to pause before making decisions that could have life-altering consequences. He recognized that, had his son only thought twice before acting, things might have turned out differently. Since then, I have reflected often on that wisdom, and how it speaks not only to moments of crisis but to the choices we make every day.
The Principle of Pausing
Too often, we rush into actions or words without considering their impact. The urge to respond, to act quickly, or to fix something immediately can lead us into trouble. This “think twice” principle is vital: sometimes, when someone offends us, we must refrain from a hasty, confrontational response. Instead, we might need to pause, gather our thoughts, and approach the person with a spirit of understanding rather than anger.
This applies equally to projects an tasks. Sometimes we must step away, take a break, and return with fresh perspective, rather than forcing a solution in the heat of the moment. Our daily agendas may press us for instant resolution, but wisdom says: think twice.
The Weight of Decisions
As human beings, we make countless decisions—about careers, relationships, education, where we live, and more. While these choices are important, it’s crucial to remember that they are also temporary. Their consequences may last a long while, but not forever.
Yet, some decisions are eternal. Jesus spoke about this in Luke 14:28-30 (NIV): “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish.’” Jesus was teaching us the importance of counting the cost before embarking on any significant undertaking.
Counting the Cost—In Life and Faith
The analogy Jesus uses here is clear: before we commit to something big, especially something as crucial as following Christ, we must assess our willingness to see it through. Discipleship isn’t a casual or trivial decision; it’s a commitment that requires sacrifice and perseverance. If we begin without the resolve or resources to finish, we risk shame and disappointment—not only from others but in our own hearts.
This passage challenges us to reflect carefully before making lifetime—and especially eternal—commitments. True discipleship demands intention, calculation, and surrender to the lordship of Jesus.
Tying the Stories Together: An Urgent Invitation
The father’s repeated admonition at his son’s casket—“Think twice about it”—serves as a powerful catalyst for deeper reflection. His grief became a warning, urging each of us to pause, reflect, and not act rashly, whether in daily matters or in life’s ultimate questions.
Likewise, Jesus’ instruction to count the cost calls us to think twice, not only about temporary things, but about our spiritual destiny. Are we ready to follow Him, to weigh what it means to be His disciple, and to make decisions that last not just for today but for eternity?
Application: Living as Thoughtful, Committed Disciples
As a congregation, let us heed both the father’s wisdom and Christ’s teaching. Let us be people who pause, consider, and seek God’s guidance before we act. Let’s not make hasty choices—whether in moments of crisis or in routine life—without weighing the consequences.
Most importantly, let us apply this principle to the greatest decision of all: following Christ. It is a path that requires us to count the cost, but also to embrace the joy and purpose that comes with surrendering our lives to Him. May we all take these lessons to heart—think twice, count the cost, and choose, with intention and faith, the way of Christ, which leads to life eternal.
Pastor John
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Bible Memory Verse
Week 1 –Philippians 4:7 “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:7, NIV
Week 2 – Proverbs 30:5 “Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.” – Proverbs 30:5, ESV
Week 3 – 1 Corinthians 10:31 “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31, NIV
Week 4 – Genesis 1:1 “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”- Genesis 1:1, ESV
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Close to God
I can take my telescope and look millions and millions of miles into space. But I can lay it aside, go into my room, shut the door, get down on my knees in earnest prayer, and see more of heaven and get closer to God than I can assisted by all the telescopes and material agencies on earth. —Isaac Newton
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“If God is your copilot, swap seats.” —Anonymous
Like a kind parent, dear God, you take us in your arms, lift us to your cheek, teach us to walk, heal our injuries and bend down to feed us (Hosea 11:1, 3-4). Thank you for showering us with your love.
“To handle yourself, use your head; to handle others, use your heart.” —Eleanor Roosevelt
People see God every day; they just don’t recognize him. —Pearl Bailey
ANNOUNCEMENTS
You may reach Pastor John at #607-651-4760 or at his.ship@gmail.com at any time to discuss your needs and concerns
Choir Practice – Will resume in September
E-Mail Carolyn White with any praises, joys, or prayer requests (whisperpines@frontiernet.net) throughout the week.
Vacation Bible School – August 6th , 7th & 8th – 9am to Noon. Ages 2-12. There will be stories, lessons, bible verses, songs, crafts and snacks. All Welcome If anyone would like to help, see Vickie Franchak
Sunday, August 10th – Communion
Sunday, August 10th – 3pm – Barnes Kasson Service
Wednesday, August 20th – 8am – Men’s Breakfast
Thursday, August 21st – 11am – Presbyterian Women meeting
Tuesday, August 26th – Newsletter Deadline
Rev. Mahalo has been quiet lately because he has been very busy with his position as chairman of African clergy Assoc. He has an appointment with the American embassy on August 13. At that interview he will find out if he will be granted a VISA to visit us here. Submitted by Jim Kessler
NOTE: Our website is: www.franklinhillpresbyterian.org where you can access online messages, event calendar, our church newsletter, mission, etc. Check it out when you can! Also check our Facebook Page! Phone #570-967-2075