Good morning.
A short (but hopefully thoughtful) little encouragement this week.
I was just at our monthly Pastor’s get together in Plymouth at the Salvation Army facility which is located on Long Pond Road. It was great to hear how that group is working to minister in the marketplace, where many people have stopped carrying cash. Blessed are the flexible. They’ve employed the QR code.
Soon, music will change on our phones and radios, and the season of bell ringing will be upon us. It’s always fun getting out there and spreading some Christmas cheer!
Meanwhile, we’ve got another Press-In meeting next Thursday, October 15th at 7 p.m. During our last September meeting, Amy Page received a great word that aligns perfectly with our purpose: people are being “tossed” around by the fast-moving merry-go-round of life. We who follow Jesus need to find our footing so we can be available to help them find theirs – Pay Attention. Take Action. Expect Intervention.
Q: Will the merry-go-round present itself to us as we move into the holidays? I think so.
It’s not a time to be too occupied or faint of heart.
And, we’ve been reading the Book of Acts in my Life Groups – a Holy Spirit-focused book. Last night, in Chapter 2, Moraiba Reyes noted that she hears this prophecy coming from people who don’t even know the Lord.
“In the last days,” God says,
“I will pour out my Spirit upon all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy,
Your young men will see visions
and Your old men will dream dreams.
In those days I will pour out my Spirit
even on my servants – men and women alike –
and they will prophesy” (Acts 2:17-18).
Brian Bicknell noted that the prophecy from Joel cited by Peter probably is speaking forward into our days. Further, notice how our historical context blinds us to some things! I’m sure Joel spoke the words: “men and women alike,” and had a re-think because of his place in history. I’m sure it was easier to believe that older people in the future would dream significant dreams than it was to believe that women would prophesy in public. Cultural norms hadn’t changed much when Peter repeated the prophecy in Acts 2. So, did the spirit lie? Well, if we fast-forward to our time, we see the Spirit’s intention was absolutely accurate.
God’s intention is for every person to work in the harvest field. Game on!
I’m excited to be with many of you this coming weekend on Sunday at 10 a.m.
Joe Giamo and the team will facilitate our worship time. Then will begin breaking down each phrase of our purpose.
The first ethic invites us to pay attention. What is at risk if we don’t?
It will be great to explore both the spiritual and scientific aspects together.
In His Service,
Seth
Recent Comments