What an exciting time to serve Jesus Christ it is! When I think of our calling as Christians, I cannot help but to reflect on those words from Christ.  "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you”. (Matthew 28:19-20)

It is not our choice but our privileged obligation to spread the gospel. I shared with you that famous quote, “Lost and broken people mattered to Christ and therefore lost and broken people must matter to us”. It has been our battle cry this past year as we witnessed and loved people through Christ. Another scripture has driven me this past year.   "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me. . . I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." (Mathew 25:35- 36, 40)

I believe, that as Christians, unless we are doing for the least of those in our community we are not being faithful to God's calling upon our life. It is too easy for the Christian to fall into Satan’s deception and start focusing on ourselves. Christianity is a relationship that thrives on selflessness. When we become more selfless and focus more on others we infect the world with Christ’s love.

Looking ahead to the 2009 church year, I trust the Lord will see us through and bless us with an abundance of ministry circumstances. As we participate through the 40 Days of Purpose I trust that many will discover their purpose and talents thereby entering into the ministry of the church according to those talents.

I spent some time reflecting on the concept of the compass that represents our vision, values, principals, and conscience. My desire is to lead our church into a deeper relationship with Christ. We will do this through paying attention to the First things.

To Live – living every minute for Christ as if He should return tonight. (He just might.)

To Love – relationships are paramount. We need to love God and others with the love of Christ.

To Learn - education is vital. A healthy spiritual life is one growing in knowledge of Christ.

To Leave a Legacy- we are here because of those who came before us.

When it has all been said and done, what kind of legacy are we leaving for the next generation of Nazarenes? Are we leaving a legacy that promotes Christ’s love? Are you serving or just being served? Thanks to those who forged ahead of us we accepted the Gospel of grace and salvation. Who will come to know forgiveness and eternal life because of your actions? I look forward to the day that my Lord and Savior tells me “well done good and faithful servant”. I dread the words “I never knew you”. Which one will you hear?

Pastor Len