In 2005 I read a book that still resonates deeply in me. Though it’s been almost a decade since I last picked it up… Bill Hybels ‘Courageous Leadership’ has left one statement ringing in my head…
The Local Church is the Hope of the World.
It’s this belief that continues to drive me as this year marks the threshold for me in spending 10 years of my life in “full time ministry.” I absolutely believe that “Life transformation and the eternal destinies of real people depend on the redemptive message entrusted to the local church. Am I willing to do whatever it takes to lead and serve the church effectively so God’s message of hope can change the world?”
I’ve seen the church through seasons of joy, bitterness, frustration, and hope. I’ve seen the ugly and the beautiful, but I continue to believe the local church is the hope of the world! It’s you and me that God has entrusted to spread his Kingdom throughout the world using the vehicle of the Church.
This weekend is Easter. Churches all across the globe with gather with great expectation. Here is my prayer and challenge for you and for myself…
Let’s not be people that treat the hope of the world
like it’s simply an event.
Church is so much bigger than a once a week gathering. It’s impossible to separate Christ from His Church…so the church is worthy of our time, talent, and money and the best we have to give.
Don’t just show up to an event this weekend — serve. Pour your life into the church like it’s the hope the world depends on. Find a way to volunteer or encourage your pastor. This weekend most every church is setting up extra chairs, extra creative elements, and they need all hands on deck. I hope that Easter weekend can create a spark to the way we give our lives to the Church every day and every week…not just on Easter Sunday.
I’m grateful to be leading worship at home this weekend! If you’re near Atlanta and looking for a place to worship come join us:
GOOD FRIDAY:
Briarlake Church – 3715 LaVista Road – Decatur, GA 30033 – 7pm
EASTER SUNDAY:
Easter on The Green – Woodstock, GA
www.EasterOnTheGreen.org
