Sisters and brothers,
Happy Monday and happy Martin Luther King, Jr. Day to all! Today we remember Martin Luther King, Jr. who lived out His faith in Jesus and fought for justice. You cannot read Dr. King’s writings or listen to Dr. King’s speeches or sermons without seeing that His faith in Jesus motivated him to live his life to see an end to racism and injustice. I hope believers will see the example of Dr. King and live with the same willingness to work for justice.. I pray that believers will imitate Dr. King and struggle to see people freed from oppression. I pray that his courageous faith lived out will help us to be courageous believers in the generation where God has placed us.
We had a wonderful day of worship yesterday. The worship team led us to think about the great sacrifice Jesus made for us, and Ron Roberts ‘ new song, “Remember When” helped us to think about how that personally applied to each of us. They truly prepared us for the taking of the Lord’s Supper. The message from Matthew 4 reminded us that we are not only called to forgiveness and salvation, but we are called to share that forgiveness and salvation with others who desperately need it. We are called to be on mission with Jesus. We are called to share the same message of those who came before us. We are often called to proclaim the message in dark and difficult places. (See today’s prayer request for missionaries Marcia and Kasey.) We are always called to leave all and follow Jesus as we call others to leave all to follow Jesus. And, we are called to both proclaim and deliver the healing message of the gospel. Yes, we are to be on mission with our Savior!
We will be having a pot luck luncheon this Sunday, January 27th after worship. Bring enough to feed your family and a little extra for any guests. I am looking forward to this time of fellowship with each of you.
On Sunday morning, February 3, at 9:30 AM, the second half of the short-term DVD Bible Study, “The Clash of Kingdoms,” will begin. In the part 2 study, you will continue to follow Paul to Athens and then to Corinth. Damon and Megan are leading this study for older youth and adults. This would be a perfect time to join a small group Bible study, especially if you are not currently involved in one. The study will last approximately five weeks. You do not have to have participated in the first half to be part of this study.
Love being your pastor!
Bob Ray, Pastor, East Madison Baptist Church