All Involved, All Accountable - four words (really three) that I have been repeating in my head again and again this past week. I am asking the Lord for ways I can continue to encourage this congregation, His church, how we might become All Involved and All Accountable and I have also asked that He provide blessing to our people in the way of financial, spiritual, relational and emotional peace in our lives. Already I am hearing testimonies of how God's provision is coming our way at this time!
I know that the key way peace of this type is provided is through our 'connections' with Him and each other. There are several ways we as a church attempt to make this happen on a regular basis. One way is, of course our small groups - which are beginning the next two weeks! Another way is how we care for each other as a congregation. This is seen in how our love for one another is expressed through visits, gifts, encouragement, time spent, etc. And yet a third way is how we love strangers and how we get involved in ministry - I mean in ministry in a way that connects us to God's mission for our life. Pastor Amy (our children's pastor) calls this our M@M around here (next time you eat one of those chocolaty candies think about your mission).
In order for us to be effective in these three areas, though it requires leadership. So many people have stepped up recently in our youth ministry, children's ministry and worship ministry (among others). So many are reaching out like never before. I am so thankful for the volunteers who have made a renewed dedication to this ministry and I am excited about the fruit we will and ARE already seeing. Another who has stepped up is one of our elders, Rick Keaton. Rick has volunteered to help lead our small groups and our congregational care ministries. Rick's goal is to get you equipped and enlisted in these areas so that you might be connected to God's goal for your life. So, over the next few weeks you will begin to see us put some 'teeth' to some of the ministries we have been talking about and praying for these past weeks and months.
Our next step for you is to encourage you to speak with Rick about how you believe the Lord is leading you and then for you to get involved as Rick works with you to put you in the perfect 'fit' for ministry and life! Okay, okay, it may not be a perfect fit, but I hope and pray that as you take your next steps in ministry and life you will allow us to encourage, guide and at times even direct you toward what and where that might be. We have so much to do and I know that we will need everyone pouring in together if we are to get it done!
I am excited and enthused about what is next for us. I hope and pray that you are too! Please remember we are also recruiting our Bridges/Mentors for the new year - this would be a great first step for many of you . . . jump in with us, jump in now!
All Involved, All Accountable!
Pastor Biz
P.S. Don't forget, our new Welcome Class is coming up on the 13th and we have Baptism scheduled for the 20th. Maybe you have already participated in both, but know someone who hasn't - sign them up today!
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