We are a church that is seeking to glorify God through gathering, growing, giving and going. Let’s not lose sight of why God formed this body almost 100 years ago. If we lose our vision then we lose our way, and inevitably we will get in the way of what God is trying to accomplish through us. If we lose our way then we no longer have a God-driven purpose for existence. We honor God best when we do what pleases Him, not us!

This Sunday morning we will gather to take the Lord’s Supper. These worship services are special because we make the death of Jesus our focus. Remembering His sacrifice for our sins helps to put life into perspective. Our marriages, families, friendships, jobs, and fun all have a deeper purpose when laid against the backdrop of the crucifixion. Our gathering this week will help make better sense of our every day life.

We grow into Christlikeness through God’s Word, small community and circumstances. One of the reasons I love our Sunday school groups is because it provides the best outlet for this to take place. God’s Word is being taught, a sense of camaraderie is felt because they provide a smaller platform, and we’re able to be more intimate and open about our daily struggles with each other. One of my desires and prayers is to see more of these groups added. If you don’t have a group, come Sunday morning at around 9:15 for coffee and we’ll show you how you can get plugged into one of these groups.

I love to see people give, and so many of you do this beautifully. People are constantly giving of their time to help others see Christ. Even the seemingly smallest gesture of service is huge. And you know what? Your name doesn’t even have to be in a committee booklet to give! Here’s a question I want all of us to answer: “How am I giving through serving others?”

If we don’t go and make disciples I don’t think we can expect to grow. Everyone lives a busy life and God’s intention is to use that busyness to build bridges that reach into other people’s lives. God has strategically and sovereignly placed us where we are to get the gospel out. The gospel must move out of the church building and into our family gatherings, neighborhoods, playgrounds, schools, grocery stores and work places. Everywhere we go should be seen as a mission field, and we are the missionaries God is sending to share His good news of great joy.

Grace & Peace,