Sisters and brothers,
Happy Tuesday to all! I hope all of you had a relaxing Labor Day yesterday. It was wonderful to worship with you Sunday. We gathered to lift praise to Almighty God our Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer. Then from Mark 9, we looked at the mountaintop experience of the disciples as they witnessed Jesus’ eternal glory in the transfiguration. Then we saw the disciples in the valley of failure and frustration in their inability to free a young man from demon possession. We will all have mountaintop experiences of intense closeness with God. We will also have valley experiences of failure, frustration, and depression. These highs and lows will come and go. Remember there is a time for every matter under heaven. Rejoice in the mountaintop experiences and learn from them. Learn also from the failures, frustrations, and times of depression how to walk with God more closely. Be faithful to Jesus on the mountains and in the valleys. Following Jesus means seeking His presence and power during the highs and lows of life.
There will be a potluck luncheon next Sunday, September 10, after our worship gathering on Sunday morning. Bring enough food for your family and a little extra for any guest we might have.
We will be participating in the Minnesota/Wisconsin State Missions Offering taking place during the month of September. There are special envelopes on the table in the back of the auditorium for that offering. We encourage you to pray and give generously as the Holy Spirit leads. To learn more about this offering watch this special video link: https://www.mwbc.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SMO-2023.mp4
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