Tuesday Tidings Jan 20, 2026

Dearest Members of Bethlehem,

“And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the day approaching.” -Hebrews 10:25

This Sunday, January 25th is Bethlehem’s annual congregational meeting.  And I am almost sure that even with just that sentence I have already lost several folks.  But I really do hope that you will stick with me for a few more lines.

And the reason that I hope that you will stick with me is this: while our annual congregational meeting absolutely is the time set aside to tend to the critically important business of the church, it is every bit as much a spiritual exercise as it is a practical one.

Sure, on the surface you will hear congregational leaders and committee chairs share what they have been up to over the course of the last twelve months.  There will be be news of future plans and proposals that will shape the life of our congregation.  And yes, there will even be a budget that needs to be approved.  All of this is necessary, but it is not merely perfunctory.

Reverberating beneath all the reports and commentary, the motions and the seconds to motions, is a deep and abiding spirituality; a lasting commitment to the work of the Gospel, and the sobering realization that none of this ministry that we share should be taken for granted.

Everything represented on the pages of that robust report is a gift unique to us and to our moment in the history of Christ’s church.

Indeed, we are so very fortunate to be relishing this community of faith with one another!

The annual congregational meeting gives us an opportunity to acknowledge the accomplishments and the opportunities.  It gives us an opportunity to lift heartfelt thanks and praise to the One who provides, sustains, and creates the purposeful work in which we are engaged.

If you would like to refer back to the lesson that began this devotion, you will see that “provoking” one another is highly recommended.  But, as per the letter to the Hebrews, this provocation has a distinct complexion, tenor, and tone.

It is provocation marked by a certain level of, “encouragement.”  “Encouragement" of one another is the thing to which we are called by the biblical witness.

When we get together for our meeting, we will be invested in important work.  We will address the business, be honest about the opportunities that are before us, and finally provoke and encourage one another for the meaningful ministry that will serve as our legacy for the next generation.  See you at church!

Question for reflection: When has genuine encouragement made a difference in your journey of faith?  Who might you be able to encourage in the days ahead?

Yours in Christ,

Pastor Dan

God of glory, God of wonder, fill all of our days with your goodness.  May your grandiose grace be the driving force in our lives and not the guilt of former failings.  May your peace keep us present in the moment, and all of our anxieties be kept in their proper place.  May our spirits know the depth of your joy in every season.  In Christ’s name we pray, amen.