Pastor’s Pen
My phone has an app that sends me news about the latest issues in the world. It notifies me of stories that range from political pieces to sports. Within these stories will inevitably be a new catastrophe of a “reality star” and their sad commentary or outrage of the issue at hand. I wonder, how much is really “reality” and how much is staged for ratings and hits on the internet? These individuals are in the center of attention because they know how to stay in the center of attention. Simply put, much of it is performance. That concern made me ponder the people in churches around the country. I wonder how much is real Christianity or how much is performance? How many church attenders are impressive performers and not pursuers of Jesus Christ? Take account of our own life. Are we pursuing Christ-likeness, or are we performing for the audiences? Our life should not be fake reality for Christ but a genuine outpouring of Christ within us!
Monday Minute
Today was the launch of Diving Deep, our vacation Bible school! We are so excited about what God has begun today! Some do ask why we dedicate such effort to these children. The answer is simple. Jesus had much to say about the children during His earthly ministry. It is with His example that we must continue to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. He was offended when the disciples attempted to keep the children from Him. He rebuked the disciples and welcomed the children into His presence. We also must teach and preach to the next generation that Jesus still saves! Our concern should be to those that are our children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The gospel is still real. The gospel still saves. There is another generation that must accept Jesus and continue His command of the great commission! If you take a minute on this Monday, pray for us as we are Diving Deep into the Word of God! Pray for these children’s hearts to be tender and accept the wonderful Word of God!
Pastor’s Pen
Welcome to July!! This is the time of the year where the weather is hot and the children are enjoying their summer! That also means that vacation Bible school has arrived at our church! After months of preparation, the children will arrive on Monday for an exciting adventure! This adventure is the Word of God. Honestly, there is nothing more exciting than the Word of God! It contains action packed accounts, it describes men and women looking beyond their feeble attempts and depending on Jesus! There is a deceiver that ultimately commits betrayal to the Son of God. The Bible has triumph, tragedies and even love stories. The wonderful Book divine will be opened to the children that enter the doors this week and will be taught about faith, love, obedience, assurance and trust! Please pray for these precious souls. Pray that their hearts will be tender and be touched during this week!
Monday Minute
This week the USA will be celebrating its liberty. This is a wonderful time of fun for families as they enjoy cookouts and amazing displays of fireworks. July 4th is a great time to look back and see the hardships that the men and women had to overcome in those beginning days. Trials, threats and turmoil surrounded their lives as they looked to have freedom. We must remember and be thankful for the sacrifice on our behalf. A greater sacrifice has been made for us! This sacrifice took place on Calvary’s hill. The sacrifice of Jesus Christ has given freedom for all that believe! This freedom is not limited to a district, county, state or country. Nor is it maintained by the court systems of man! It has granted freedom for eternity from the penalty of sin and is maintained by the precious blood of Jesus Christ! What freedom we have been granted by our Lord and Savior! As we are celebrating freedom for America, take a minute to thank God for your freedom He has granted by His mercy and grace!
Pastor’s Pen
Excitement is a stimulant to anything. If someone is excited about a restaurant, an event, a particular place or about anything, excitement drives that person. Unfortunately, excitement tends to dwindle until there is nothing more than a memory of what was in the past. I am amazed as I see excitement over the release of a new movie, a new game, a new player joining a team or even a new discovery. Yes, this light of excitement grows more and more dim with each day. The worlds paraphernalia promises to give more and more but these temporary attachments fade. The excitement is over. What about your salvation? Contrary to the world’s promises, this is a gift that gives like no other! This should be a spring of living water within your soul! Has the excitement of salvation faded in your life? May I challenge you to look to the light that never fades or ceases! Get excited about what God has done for you! Salvation!