Dear Cobham Park Church Family,
It’s been exciting to see you taking initiative to serve Jesus in new ways! You are increasingly stepping out with fresh vision, leadership, and work in ministry. This summer, we had Vacation Bible School for the first time in years. Our Fall Festival, Christmas Parade float, and New Testament distribution were all initiated without my prompting. People have organized bible studies in their homes and at church. Women’s and youth ministry are making a fresh start. Children’s Church is rolling. The organ is making music again. Building and grounds improvements are constantly underway. The church bus has even emerged from the garage for the first time this year. All these things have happened because folks saw a need, listened to the Spirit, picked up the ministry ball, and then ran with it! And I’m not even including ongoing church ministries through Sunday School, music, WMU outreach, hospitality, our deacons, stewardship, church office staff…and the list goes on! “Every member a minister” is now more than a motto; you are making it a reality!
So, what am I supposed to be doing as your Pastor? In consideration, I will do all I can to equip you for ministry in Christ (Ephesians 4:11-12). I will try to coordinate our ministry so that we work together in Christ (Ephesians 4:13-14). Finally, I will try to center our purpose in Christ, so that we continue to grow together in Him and His work (Ephesians 4:15-16). As members of God’s church, how are you supposed to minister?
Consideration: in planning your ministry, think of others before yourself (Philippians 2:2-5). Consider how your ministry helps others to grow closer to Christ and shine for Him in our community. If you are using church facilities, “leave it like you found it.” Don’t assume that it’s someone else’s job to cater to your needs or clean up after you. Let love guide your decisions. Respect the biblical authority of church leaders.
Coordinate your ministry with Christian brothers and sisters. Don’t just run off and do your own thing, assuming that church facilities will be available any time that is convenient for you. Contact the church office to calendar your event. Coordinate the details of what you want to do so that we don’t plan on top of one another. Dead churches don’t need calendars and coordination. Thankfully, we do!
Center your ministry in Christ and His mission. Everything we do should be for His glory. We aren’t a business, family reunion, personal club, civic organization, or charity. We are God’s church! In all we do, our ultimate purpose is to receive the light of Christ and shine in our community. If a church event is for some other purpose, why have it? The Lord’s great commission (Matthew 28:18-20) takes priority in our planning!
Your Fellow Minister,
Pastor Keith
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