Forward Motion
“Well, Reverend,” a man sitting behind me in a restaurant said, “what does the Bible have to say about all the crazy things going on in our world?”
I have learned that when in public places it is wise to consider content and context of discussions. Others are listening---on a secondary level. What does the waiter hear while going and coming? What bits of conversation are overheard from other persons not known to me and perhaps only listening with ears for criticism? Are there persons only passing by that may get only a word or two that is harmful? What could be said that might be misunderstood and do more harm than good? Is the question asked rhetorical? Is a question asked intended to trick a person---(it was tried with Jesus)?
Will the answer satisfy the question? Or will it lead to confrontation? Will it open a discussion unwelcomed in a public place?
I turned to the person who asked the question and replied: “Everything is on course…just as the Bible has spoken.”
The character of Covenant has been and is that we do not fluff, pump-and-prime, engage in odd public relations campaigns, etc. We practice living our faith, learning about Jesus and serving others. There is no slow day at Covenant. Almost every day of the year doors are open for ministry. We practice what we preach. We believe the gospel of Jesus Christ is powerful.
Saturday was a full day with two men’s meetings, a community event for children, and a wedding. Woven around these events 24 men removed about 100 squares of shingles, repaired the roof of the OT Building, installed 137 squares of shingles, cleaned up and prepared the parking lot for Sunday. We are indebted to Rick Sutterfield for helping find a contractor that saved us thousands of dollars.
Resurrection Sunday came. We did what we know how to do: We celebrated life in Jesus Christ. He is Our Savior! He is alive! Three services on Sunday morning. After the 3rd service we baptized 5 believers. Four, including a 67-year old, had been strong Hindu believers. One was a former Buddhist. There was rejoicing!
We also had special additional worship services: African Fellowship, Spanish Fellowship, Hindi Fellowship (60), Nepalese Fellowship (30), and Burmese Fellowship (86). Much rejoicing!
In addition we received a spur-of-the-moment “Go Tell” mission offering for three different ministries, i.e., Philippines, India, and Iran---several thousand dollars for each ministry.
We were delighted to welcome home many persons dear to our hearts. It is a season the Lord is confirming. We have planned for this time. We have sought to lay a solid foundation in Jesus Christ. We believe in discipleship. We baptize and train workers. The harvest is ripe. Souls are waiting for us to bring them the HOPE that is in Jesus.
This coming Sunday the sermon will focus on the Coming King. God’s Word is clear that Jesus will return for His people---the Church. We will explore our part in the Kingdom work until Our Lord returns.
God will not be slow or late to perform His Word. The question is whether we will be on time. Let us be diligent occupying as we wait for Our Master’s return (Luke 19:13).
Much love—
Pastor Bare