Each year brings us new or different experiences. At the beginning when the rest of the year is unknown, the future might seem scary with so many uncertainties. Having a plan or vision, however, can provide some sense of progressive expectations. The latter is my preferred approach to our ministry journey in 2014. Reflections on the lectionary readings since January seem to affirm the view of a hopeful future for God’s people; particularly regarding the return and rebuilding of the lives of Israel’s exiles in their homeland. Gospel texts such as Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount (Mt. 5) provide insights into how a faith community can bear positive witness to the love of God to the wider community. Just last week, we heard from 1 Cor. 3:6 (“I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth”) how, despite the challenges of division that Christians may face in the life of the church, we are involved together in the work of God. God works to grow the seed of the good news of Jesus Christ through us. I believe God will enable growth in First Church this year as we find practical/relevant ways of nurturing this good news in the people around us (both inside and outside of First Church). At present I am considering ways in which our worship services might develop to faithfully express this. I would like to encourage you to think of possibilities in how you can do your part to help us grow.
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