Greetings in the name of Jesus Christ,
Folks are watching us, some want to sell us things, others want to “find” personal information, and fortunately, many simply want to know why we live and love as followers of Jesus.
I was reminded that folks “watch” us this morning when an advertisement popped up on the computer screen for pig gestation stalls. Evidently, someone has “cookies” on the computer and has found that I am interested in agriculture. If you see a truck unloading hog stalls in the backyard of the parsonage, you will know why!
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Hebrews 10:23-25
Watching, stirring one another up to love and good works, encouraging one another, Yes! Think about coaches working with ballplayers in baseball and softball, watching, encouraging, demonstrating, helping these young players to become better hitters, baserunners, and fielders. Think of swimming instructors teaching how to swim, float, paddle, and breathe; all so we can be safe in the water and enjoy swimming in the “good ol’ Summertime.”
June is a time for growth. Pentecost, with the gifting, empowerment and presence of the Holy Spirit is with us as God desires to birth and mature us in our relationship with Jesus, his Church, and ministry to the folks God calls us to serve in this year 2022.Nevertheless I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convince the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no more; concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged. “I have yet many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you. John 16:7-15
The victory over sin and death has been accomplished by Jesus. Power to overcome the condemnation of sin and death is available to us through faith in Jesus Christ and the presence of His Holy Spirit in all believers through his precious gift. We continue to live in a world with sin, death, challenge and difficulty; yet, Jesus has overcome and he empowers us to overcome.
We are called to watch over one another as we stir one another up to love and good works through encouragement; the real and awesome love of Jesus implanted within us through his Holy Spirit.
Ministry together is much more exciting and fun than playing ball or swimming! Growing together in the love of God, sharing the gifting and empowerment of his Holy Spirit as we live in the fullness of life made possible to be Jesus’ body in this world. We grow into the maturity and joy of the Church, which “is the only society that exists for the benefit of those who are not its members.” (William Temple)
Praise the Lord that you love God and one another with all your heart, soul, and strength. We gladly live and watch over one another in love. Knowing we are watched by others, may our why be clear and compelling in Jesus!
We will see you in worship and ministry! We celebrate Pentecost, Confirmation, and Holy Communion June 5th, our church picnic – invite a friend – meal and potluck begins around 4 pm on Sunday the 5th at Roger and Denise Brown’s family farm, Vacation Bible School begins June 7th. We have a whole lot more ministry to share this June, so join us! We have ministry, joy, and love to share.
Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ,
In Jesus, Paul and Nancy Wier