Hi Church!

Last week we learned about Matthew, the tax collector.  We learned just how hated those tax collectors were, and how incredible  it was that Jesus chose him to be a disciple.  It showed us that no one is beyond the hope of Jesus - no one is beyond that new beginning. 

This coming Sunday as we conclude this series on New Beginnings, this theme of no one is beyond hope will be driven home even more as we will meet the man who called himself the worst of the worst. 

On Sunday we will also be receiving Holy Communion.  This is a time where we remember the sacrifice of Jesus.  It is a holy time - a time for confession, and a time for repentance.  Because during Communion, we remember that Jesus loved us so much that He willingly went to the cross, and poured out his blood for the forgiveness of all our sins - for you, for me, for all of us. 

Blessings,

Pastor Marcy

Devotion This Week:

Phones have dramatically changed throughout the years.  But did the purpose change?  Isn’t the primary purpose of a phone in the 1800s the same as a phone today?  To make a call – to talk to someone – to communicate with another person?  Back in the 1800’s when you used a phone, you had to be connected to an operator who then connected you to a person.  Today a phone can be used to text or call or contact that person by social media.  But the purpose is still to communicate with a person.  The method of that communication by phone has changed but not the purpose. 

Jesus told us we all have the same purpose - to tell someone about Him.  Our methods are different, but the purpose is the same - to share the saving love of Jesus. 

Jesus said: Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19

That verse doesn’t say, “those who are pastors” go and make disciples.  It doesn’t say “those who are outgoing” go and make disciples.  And it doesn’t say “those who are super religious” go and make disciples.  This verse was directed to all of us.  We all have the same purpose - but we are going to have different methods. 

Some of us might talk directly to someone about Jesus.  Some of us might bake cookies and take them to a person who is not feeling good, and include a card with a Bible verse.  Some of us might invite a neighbor to church.  Some of us might serve with a Christian non-profit helping those who are less fortunate. 

Different methods - same purpose.  Share the love of Jesus. 

Choose your method today - and share Jesus!