The church has met on Sundays for almost 2,000 years. It has been the Lord’s day since John was on the island of Patmos. And one of the key components of worship has always been giving, supporting the ministry of the gospel. We’re called not to just raise big offerings at the point of need, although that’s a great thing to do too, we’re called to give each week, as we receive from the Lord, we give back to his kingdom through the local church. That’s how we’re all in this together. God has given the church to function as a community, it’s one way he comforts us. He allows us to go through hard times so that we can help others through similar situations, that’s community. Forgiveness, encouragement, care, these are the marks of a great church family, all rooted in the triumphant Christ. We are a covenant community bought with the blood of Jesus, that is our identity. The Gospel message is our purpose. We are flawed and will make mistakes, but the message is pure and leads to life, real life. Even though this earthly existence is temporary, we have an eternal home, and we’ve been given the job of telling the world. To reconcile God and man through Jesus Christ, that’s why we’re here. Our lives preach a message, do those around you know Jesus through you? Is your core, the most important thing to you, Jesus or is it something else? Are your friendships or other relationships more important to you than your relationship with Jesus? If someone rejects Jesus, do they reject you? Where is your joy. Is it when someone comes to Christ, or something else? Are we generous with our time, or talents, or finances? Where is our heart? Are we investing in the next generation, like Titus, or do we highlight their shortcomings? Are we cheerful in what we sacrifice for the Lord, or do we expect something in return? If we were put on trial, would be be found “guilty” to the charge of being a faithful Christian, like Paul? Is our message the gospel, are our actions genuine? Have we suffered because of a stand that must be taken, or when the going gets tough, do we look for a way out? Following Jesus is not an easy road, but it’s worth it. It doesn’t mean we always get our way. Sometimes we get the opposite so that we can learn of God’s provision. His grace is enough for us, we don’t need anything else. Engage in his mission!
Day 23: 2Corinthians 13 – Ephesians 4
Day 24: Ephesians 5 – Colossians 4
Day 25: 1Thessalonians 1 – 1Timothy 6
Day 26: 2Timothy 1 – Hebrews 6
Day 27: Hebrews 7 – James 2
Day 28: James 3 – 1John 1
Day 29: 1John 2 – Revelation 4
Day 30: Revelation 5 – 22
Day 31: Pray and prepare for 2018!!!
