“Happy 10th Anniversary”

“…and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. —Matthew 16:18b (NIV)

It was during the week leading up to Sunday, August 30, 2009, that Pastor Smith led us into the new church building.  Those of us who were here during that time should recall the zeal and excitement we felt.  God had favored our pastor and our congregation.  Since that time, God has continued to show us favor.  He has continued to sustain us.  He has continued to bless our congregation in many ways, starting with our pastor!  Praise God!

 
As it should be with any church building, this building is just a part of the vision God gave for our local church family of believers.  Prophetess Smith has shared with us on a number of occasions how the vision for our church includes ministering to the total man.  Where are we on this? 

All around us there are people who are hurting and defeated. There are people who are discouraged, sad, lonely and depressed. These people will continue to live this way until we demonstrate to them a much better way.  We must show them the hope of life in Christ Jesus!  It is for those who are still lost and in need of a Savior that we have to find continued zeal for ministry.  And that’s why the Pastor’s vision is about more than a building!

 
Where are we on the Pastor’s Vision?  According to Matthew 16, Jesus built a church upon a rock that would withstand “the gates of Hades”!  That sounds like a pretty strong church!  You see…in addition to reaching the lost, a strong church will weather the storms of the day and serve as protection, shelter, and a place of refreshing for its members.  A strong church will build the people up, so much so that when others come into the people’s presence they should feel the love, acceptance, strength and security of the God we serve.

 

Our prayer today must be one of thanksgiving, for God has surely done a marvelous thing in the building and sustainment of our church.  Let this day also include a call to continue the work of the ministry.  Let us all do our part in helping this church to fulfill the vision of ministering to the Total Man.  Ask your ministry leader how you can help?  And if you are not actively involved in a ministry here, that should be your next step. 

 


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