Saturday, March 5, 2011

WELCOME, 2011!

Prior to the dawning of a new year, it is wise for us to do some soul-searching. We must look within our hearts to get a glimpse of where we stand spiritually and determine whether we are ready to tackle those same issues that we were faced with in the previous years. Two thousand and eleven is akin to the years past in that we are still faced with the same problems such as hunger, poverty, health care, education, or the lack thereof, unemployment, and racial injustice (racism). Injustice has no respecter of person, and we cannot allow inferior thoughts and feelings of hatred and malice to infiltrate our hearts and minds. As children of Christ, we must exemplilfy Christlike characters and stand in the gap for our brothers and sisters as a part of kingdom building. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy path."

We have hit the ground running trying to help make better lives for those who have little or no hope. It seems there are not enough hours in a day to deal with all the issues that come across my desk. For example, when I have to minister to those who have fallen gravely ill, and to the families of those who have succumbed to death weigh heavily upon my heart. I know that God never, ever does anything wrong, but because He knows we will become weary, He gives us consolation in John 14:1. "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God believe also in me." In other words, we must keep our faith and trust in Christ Jesus.

Further, I wish to encourage our congregation and others who have the desire to get involved in some type of ministry, within or outside of the church. There is a secular saying that "if you don't stand for something, you will fall for anything." While there may be some truth associated with this saying, satan must never make us lose our focus. Christians, when we stand, we should know for what and for whom we are standing. We must keep our eyes on the cross. Jesus has given us another year, another day, another month to get our house in order. This year, as with previous years, will cause some to step up to the plate; others will challenge my vision and revert back to the status quo. Nevertheless, there is no turning back.

"I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase." (I Cor. 3:6). Paul planted the seed of God's Word in people's hearts. He brought the message of salvation. Apollos' role was to water - to help the believers grow stronger in their faith. Paul founded the Church in Corinth, and Apollos built on that foundation. The preacher's work was completed, but God kept on and keeps on making Christians grow. Our leaders should be respected, but we should never place them on pedestals that create barriers between people or as a substitute for our devotion to Christ. Having said that, we should guard our hearts for ministry, but in so doing, when the Church takes it rightful place in society, it must weed out unproductive ministries that usurp the authority of those in leadership. We see all the adversity being brought against God's children where men, women, and children are dying senseless deaths everyday. We are to pray, protect, teach God's Word of Salvation, and offer God's peace that passes all understanding which only He can give.

Finally, my brethren and sisters, the visibility of the fruits of our labor for 2011 has been ushered in. We have moved from "I Can" to "I Will"; from "A Fresh Start and a New Beginning" to "Embarking upon a Kingdom Culture for Ministry". This Kingdom Culture can be accomplished harmoniously through five specific areas: (1) The Spirit of Unity is where we work together toward a shared purpose and vision; (2) The Spirit of Integrity is being committed to biblical truth; (3) The Spirit of Excellence means to work as unto the Lord with the highest degree of professionalism, productivity, and skill; (4) The Spirit of support encourages us to give courageously and favorably; and (5) The Spirit of Giving supports giving generously through tithes, offerings, gifts, and/or pledges. These values are essential for kingdom building, and every member must make a commitment to God.

Stand firm on your faith, and remember that the darkest of nights are followed by the brightest of days. With God, ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!