Dearest Members of Bethlehem,
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works. Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” -Hebrews 10:24-25
Recently, I saw a highlight reel from a collegiate level girls softball game, and I was reminded of something I’ve seen and noticed before… The intensity of the players is truly amazing, and that intensity isn’t reserved for when these talented players happen to be on the field.
Even when these young women were in the dugout, you got the impression that they believed they had the power and capacity to shape the outcome of the game.
There was no one “riding the bench,” all were perpetually invested by cheering on their teammates, and they did so with great gusto.
As I watched this all unfold, it dawned on me… I want this for our congregation. When you walk into the church building and start shaking hands with the folks you know, and maybe even some folks you don’t know, I pray you have the sense that these siblings in Christ have your best interest at heart, they are in fact rooting for you.
As you go from worship and lean into the week ahead; know that you have an entire congregation of faithful believers spiritually spurring you on.
These siblings in Christ know what you’re capable of, they’ve seen God at work in your life, and while you may not audibly hear them encouraging you to swing for the fences, I pray you can at least sense it, feel it, and trust it.
Life isn’t easy, it involves wins and losses, but those ups and downs seem a great deal more bearable when you have someone in your corner.
Let’s recommit to “stirring one another up,” let’s covenant to “encourage one another,” in the months ahead. Such an abiding intention can reshape the culture and climate of an entire congregation, and not only that, it’s downright biblical.
Question for reflection: What are the advantages to being a part of a congregation that is genuinely committed to the same goal?
Yours in Christ,
Pastor Dan
Gracious Lord, send your Spirit to inspire your people anew. For the weary grant good energy; for the grieving bless them with comfort; for the listless grant purpose; for the lost grant direction; and for the confused grant clarity. In all of our weakness, we know that we can find our strength in you and in one another. We pray this in the name of our risen Lord Jesus Christ, amen.
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