Keeping in Step with the Spirit - Part 5

In my first meeting with the board at Eagle Rock Covenant Church over a year ago, the team expressed a uniform desire to reach out and try to meet the needs of the community.  Not only did they want to reach out, the emphasis of the outreach was to work with other entities and churches in a collaborative effort.  That was what gave me a clear sense of unity with the direction of our church.  I was excited to see how that vision was fulfilled in our 2011 annual report.  It’s what continues to motivate me and our congregation as we look to the future. 

Our final New Year’s prayer emphasis and expression of our desire to keep in step with the Spirit will be centered on our community.  I’m hopeful we’ll be able to hear from some who have been served through our community ministries.  I’m also looking forward to hearing from some who have been blessed through the joy of service.   

Last Sunday we looked at different types of churches by reflecting on the parable of the sower and the seed.  This Sunday’s text from II Cor. 9 reminds us, if we sow sparingly we’ll reap sparingly but if we sow generously we’ll reap generously.  The great thing about it is, whether it be a gift of finance or service, God loves a cheerful giver.   Additionally, as we give generously, we’re told our giving overflows in thanksgiving to God!  That’s the kind of church we want to be.  We desire to be a congregation that serves others so that those around us can sing praises of thanks to our God.  He has met our needs and we praise Him!  Amen.  Pastor Marv