“To this you were called, you should follow in Jesus’ steps.” 1 Peter 2:21
If you look towards the stained-glass image of Jesus “Knocking at the Door,” you will see our two new banners that refer to our “walking with Jesus.” It is my theme for 2023 and one that I will continue to put in front of each of you. We are at a moment in history where we each have to make a choice as to what our behavior is going to be when we aren’t in church.
Are we walking with Jesus or aligning with a world that badly needs to experience the message of Easter? We need to decide whether we are truly “Easter people” or whether we are not going to answer the door when Jesus knocks … when God waits … when the Holy Spirit is trying to be with us.
The Scripture that was used by the artist who created our stained-glass window at the front of the Sanctuary reads, “Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends.”
I have been considering how many different ways we can both welcome Jesus and walk with Jesus this year. As most of you know by now, I do think out of the box at times.
We had a great turn out for our first DAYTONA 500 WATCH PARTY!! Not only did we raise some money for the church, but we also had a good time. We definitely are going to do it again next year with a stronger effort to bring in friends!
We are sending information packages out to people who are buying homes in our community. But the challenge really is for each of us to just go up to our neighbors (like people did in the past) and introduce ourselves. Maybe even hand out information about a church we all love!
We have been providing meals for Will and Elaine after their accident. That’s something to celebrate!! Christians feed and care for other people when they are hurting. That’s WALKING with JESUS!
I really hope a few more of you will consider coming to RED BIRD this summer! It’s not only a walk in the mountains with Jesus, but also the mission trip showcases that we are willing to leave our comfort zone to help others. Frankly, that is what walking with Jesus is all about.
So I am asking you for ideas! Creative ways to grow our church! Awesome new ideas to help those who are struggling. I just love that in August we are the UNDIES CHURCH!! So give me a call or e-mail me or grab me after church … tell me your ideas so that St. Paul’s continues our journey of faith that since 1858 has had this special church WALKING with JESUS!
Pastor Dave