Brothers and sisters,
Happy Monday to all! As we worshipped yesterday, we proclaimed, as the redeemed people of the risen King, that we live every day experiencing God’s marvelous grace. Then from 2 Corinthians 1 and 2, we saw how we can live with integrity and extend God’s grace to others, especially when we have misunderstandings with others. We will have misunderstandings with those close to us and with those not close to us. We are called to be peacemakers. That call does not mean we seek to avoid confrontation but seek to make peace and live in peace with others, as far as it is possible with us. At times after a painful misunderstanding, we seek to let things cool down before we seek to reconcile with others. As we communicate, we never seek to deceive and always seek to be true to our consciences as people of integrity. Then, we seek to always communicate truth as clearly as possible. As servants of Jesus who is the Truth, we seek to clear up misunderstandings when we have been misunderstood. As followers of Jesus who is the Truth, believers seek to live with integrity and in peace before God and others.
Carla and I were much surprised and then blown away by the celebration of our ten-year anniversary serving East Madison Baptist Church. Your generosity was overwhelming! We want to thank you so much for the generous gifts you provided us that we will enjoy so much. We love all of you and thank God for allowing us to serve Jesus with you for these ten years. We look forward to what God has for us together in the days ahead.
Thank you to all who helped serve the Smith family last week in providing a meal after Donald’s service. It was beautiful to see Donald’s brothers and sisters in Christ come together to honor him and to minister to Deanna and family.
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