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Dear
Saints:
I
was driving down the road recently and noticed one of the many
Georgia Lottery signs scattered around Columbus. It was
advertising the Mega lottery that's become so popular. Funny
how these signs so easily catch our attention, isn't it?
This
day the amount shown was $37 million, and I thought to myself how
nice it would be to have that kind of money dropped into my lap.
Then, it occurred to me that many of those who win large lotteries
choose, instead, to use the gift they have received unwisely.
As a result, their lives fail to be enriched; nor do they use what
they have been given to enrich the lives of others.
A
verse of scripture from 1 Peter came to mind which says: "Like
good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with
whatever gift each of you has received" (v. 10).
We
have been discussing two books over the last several months here at
St. Matthew. The first is Power Surge by Pastor Mike Foss.
The second is The Purpose Driven Life by Pastor Rick Warren.
Both, in their own way, focus on what it means to be disciples of
Jesus. Both also emphasize the need for Christians to realize
they have been given certain spiritual gifts, to understand what they
are, and to apply them in the life of the congregation and beyond.
The
Discipleship congregation will be bustling with women, men, and children—young
and old—who
are eager to use their God-given gifts, and are looking for ways to
do it. I have no doubts that God is fashioning us into just
such a people, yet most of us need the opportunity to explore how we
may use our gifts.
That's
why we have designated August 15th as our first annual Summer
Sizzler Sunday. Not only will it be a real fun time with good
food and good fellowship; it will also offer the opportunity for
everyone to explore the ways they can make a difference at St. Matthew.
This
"sizzling" event will begin after the 10:30 service on
that Sunday. So, come with an empty stomach and a willing spirit—eager
to chow down and to use your God-given gifts in his service.
See you there!
Grace
and peace,
Pastor
Larry |
