by Rev Robert A Wendel
Do you see yourself taking life’s challenges and difficulties in stride or are you beaten the moment you flip a page in your day planner or with each new dawn? You can’t pick up a road map to Utopia at the local AAA office or in the Go-Mart around the corner. So often we’re simply afraid to risk a move or take a chance because the shift in a new direction may “take us off course.”
If Saint Paul had such timid thoughts, what would have ever become of the many fledgling Christian fellowships he touched and inspired in his three missionary journeys or through the 13 letters he composed for them or younger disciples? Paul, surely, learned the art of prudent changes in direction all during the second half of his life.
And remember, Saul’s faith walk began with him being the most loyal of properly educated Jews. Jesus stopped him in his tracks, changed his name and lit in him a new flame to burn and light the way for new believers, even into our 21st century. Along the way it was not all ‘smooth sailing’. There were put-downs, theological arguments, personal physical pain, imprisonments and ship wrecks. Still Paul faithfully “walked through every open door.”? (I Corinthians 16:9).
As Paul did so very well, are you willing to spend the time and energy to help build the spiritual foundations of others? Willing to become what Charles Swindoll calls “the brick and mortar of their lives?” The relationship between an experienced Christian and a young person or a new believer is always marked by encouragement. If you’re a new disciple, will you listen and learn?
Long time pew-sitters encourage most effectively by showing others, close up, that Jesus has been in their life, ever-ready to help them ‘stay the course!’ In the New Year “Make your light shine so that others will see the good you do and will praise your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16 CEV).
Our January ABC Men’s monthly prayer breakfast will happen on Saturday, January 9th at 8:00 am. Church moderator Earl Whitener will offer the morning devotion. Please plan to join us.
At a community worship service in December conducted by area clergy, $281.00 was collected as an offering and given to Helping Hands Ministry. Thank you to everyone who helped meet holiday needs.
A DATE TO REMEMBER – Sat. Feb. 27th at 8:00 AM – National American Baptist Men’s Breakfast at Crab Orchard Baptist Church