July 27, 2022

The U.S. Senate reflects our nation and is deeply divided between two sides. But when you look closer, you see that each side is deeply divided. It’s not as if we have two competing views for what direction our country should take, it’s more like 4 or even 8. These divisions in our country feel deeper because they are expressed with more anger and, at times violence. Sensible adults are drowned out by orators who inflame and incite. Fiery rhetoric brings an immediate reaction; and, I’ve seen some churches let these fleshly trends disciple their message so that the church feels more like a political pep rally than a congregation marked by Spirit-driven love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

God has designed the church to be a refuge from the world. We are to be a beacon of hope and an embassy of our eternal kingdom providing people with a preview of the world to come. Outside there is angst, strife, violence, posturing, threats, walk-outs, sit-ins, and intimidation; but, inside, there is love for one another, listening ears, tender hearts, supportive hands, and godly counsel. Differences are discussed without attacking one another because we value each other and the gospel above all.

This past Sunday night was a Members' Meeting. We heard reports about our Music Ministry, Transformation Groups Ministry, Student Ministries, Church-planting efforts, local outreach efforts, Men’s Leadership Conference, a brother who asked for forgiveness, plus updates on projects such as the kitchen, carpet, property and budgets. Good questions were asked and answered. Votes were taken and approvals made. The leadership was encouraged because their goal of being heard and understood was accomplished; and, the congregation was encouraged because their desire to hear and understand was also accomplished. I was not surprised. This is what we do and how we do it. At the same time, I was and am grateful. This is how it should be.

I thank God for you, and I want to thank you for looking like Jesus. We read benedictions in the epistles such as, “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” (2 Corinthians 13:14); and, we are tempted to think that these are formalities, when, in reality they are beautiful appeals so that our life together really displays the supernatural power of the gospel. It is so refreshing when we do and increasingly rare. May God help us guard the sweet joy of the gospel.

Grace and peace,

Bob

Sunday’s Text: 1 Samuel 22