Brothers and sisters,
Happy Monday to all! We had a wonderful time of feasting and fellowship at our annual East Madison Baptist Thanksgiving celebration last night. We also had a fantastic morning of worship yesterday as we gloried in our Redeemer whose precious blood has ransomed us. In the message, we explored from 1 Corinthians 16 about the place of money in the lives of followers of Jesus. We learned that God is concerned with the attitude of His people about money. God wants them to love Him and not money. All we have belongs to God and He wants us to be good managers of what He has entrusted to us. We are to support the work of the Lord and help others with some of that. But along with that, we are to pay bills, and feed, clothe, and provide for our families. Whatever we do with the money entrusted to us, we are to remember those resources are to be disbursed for the glory of God. Truly, God wants believers to be generous and wise in giving. God also wants believers to give without being emotionally manipulated. When a church or ministry promotes and manages any offering, it must be promoted and managed with unquestioned integrity. God wants his children to give to Him and His work regularly, systematically, and proportionally to spread the gospel and help others.
Ladies, plan to bring your pipes, and your friends and family, to raise a joyful noise with the Overture Concert Organ on Saturday, December 7, at 11:00 AM. Always a fan favorite, the Carol Sing will get everyone in the mood for Christmas. Join Madison Symphony Orchestra Principal Organist Greg Zelek for this wonderful event that is sure to delight audiences of all ages. This event is free and open to the public. The event takes place in Overture Hall and lasts 45 minutes to one hour. After the carol sing, the ladies will enjoy lunch together.
Remember to keep praying continually for each other. None of us know fully the burdens our brothers and sisters in Christ might be carrying.
Love being your pastor!
Bob Ray, Pastor, East Madison Baptist Church