Greetings!
What are expectations of Church? is it the building? Worship? Message? Church
happens when the body engages the hurts and needs of the individual. Jesus is the
answer to what you are facing in life. I would argue that what happens on Sunday
morning literally makes up 10% of the what the church is all about. We gather in hopes
to be encouraged and lifted. But 90% of what being the church takes place outside of
the context of a service. Paul tells us in 2 Corinthians 5:19 We are all called to
“ministry”. Ministry is something that happens when we intentionally come together
allowing the gifts within us to flow freely and giving of ourselves to one another.
As a pastor, it is my heart and desire to teach and disciple others in their development
and growth of their individual spiritual gifting and ministry callings. Being mature in the
faith isn’t about title or position in the church but rather opportunity and fruitfulness in
the workplace. God has placed you where you are in your home, school and workplace.
I believe His desire is simply that you be fruitful there with those that He has put in your
path. Your ministry is the challenging coworker, the contentious individual that maybe
doesn’t treat you very well.
Learning how to win over your enemies and loving the unlovable people around you is
the most spiritual thing you can do. For that to happen we must get out of the way of
ourselves and let the love and compassion of Jesus flow through us. This means that
we need to become transparent and vulnerable with those around us. Yes, being
vulnerable can cause opportunity for people to hurt us but remember…we love not to
see it returned to us but because He first loved us.
You have been commissioned for a purpose! To this generation for time to make a
difference! Jesus is coming back soon! We need to do everything within our reach to
bring the transforming power of Jesus to a dying world. You hold the most precious truth
in your heart. The world around you experience it with your lifestyle, generosity and
love. Jesus in you is the most beautiful, wonderful and hopeful thing this world will ever
see! You don’t have to use words, arguments, or even tracts. Just let Jesus lead you in
your love and serve those around you freely and watch Him work through you
supernaturally.
Sincerely,
Pastor Eric