Tuesday Tidings from Pastor Dan

Dearest Members of Bethlehem,

“I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection.” -Philippians 3:10

A fancy new restaurant has opened in town. They have the best chef and some of the finest food and ambience the city has seen in decades. Reservations just can’t be had, and the line at the front door is around the block. Night after night folks stand there, jostling, just waiting their turn. Those who actually get in, gush about the experience… it’s incomparable.

And now, here’s the wrinkle in the story. You know the doorman. No, actually, you are quite friendly with the doorman. You two go “way back,” as they say. Folks have been trying to bribe him for weeks, inordinate sums have been offered, but he will have none it. This gatekeeper values his role, treasures his integrity.

You do the only thing left to do, you simply ask, “Can you get me in? I don’t even care what time it is, can you get me a table? Can you grant me just one opportunity at a life-changing meal?”

You are stunned by his answer, “Hey, come on over, whenever it is most convenient for you! Are you kidding, we have known each other forever! Absolutely, not a problem at all, I would be more than happy to get you in. As a matter of fact, if I can get a few moments, I might just join you, introduce you to everyone, and make you feel right at home!”

“I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection.” -Philippians 3:10

The significance of this line from Philippians is that it reminds us that knowing Christ, means that we will know the full power of Christ… the power of resurrection, the power that changes our lives into new lives.

We go way back, Jesus knew us before we knew ourselves, and this Savior of ours was always ready and willing, even before we asked, to get us in.

Get us into the heavenly banquet that awaits us and… invite us to the table that we gather around each week - for a truly life-changing meal, during which we truly encounter the power and promise of our gracious host’s resurrection.

Question for reflection: What does the sacrament of the altar mean to you?

This week at Bethlehem:

On Wednesday we begin our fall Bible Study with sessions at 10:30 and 7:00. We will be tending to a close reading of prayer in the New Testament, with the hope of inspiring our own prayer lives.

Our Saturday evening our spoken word service with Holy Communion will begin at 6:00.

On Sunday morning we will offer worship services at 8:00 and 10:30 with Sunday School in between at 9:15.

Let’s celebrate friends, it’s Rally Day, so stick around following the 10:30 worship service to enjoy our annual congregational picnic. Please RSVP to the church office if you plan to attend!

Yours in Christ,

Pastor Dan

Gracious Lord, our days are filled with so many decisions; while this can be a little overwhelming at times, we pray that we would know the joy of our Christian freedom… and in every one of our deliberations, seek your guidance. In Christ’s name we pray, amen.