Random Thoughts
May 21st, 2007 | by Ed |Hi, again.
I was just thinking about what’s been happening this year so far. Did you know that, so far this year, we ordained two new elders, added one part-time staff member, received ten new members, dedicated six babies, performed two weddings, and three funerals? Just thought you’d want to know.
I’ve been in a series of mesages on Sundays entitled “Lose Your Religion.” This week, I’ll be dealing with the futility of self-righteousness, and losing your need to try harder. Imagine that, a faith based on trusting rather than trying!
Religion is like buying a new car, pushing it all over town, and complaining about how hard it is to push it. The car dealer assures you that if you’ll just try harder, all will be well.
The unchurched see you straining and struggling to push your “religion,” and you wonder why they are not interested in getting religion too.
But the Christian faith is being “in Christ.” That is, getting into the car, putting it into gear, and letting the car transport you. The Christian life is engaging your faith to tap into the power of God.
I often point out that the Christian life is not hard…it’s impossible! There’s only one person who could ever live it–Jesus Christ. Christian faith is not a matter of trying harder to live the life God expects of us; it’s trusting Christ to live His life through us by the power of the indwelling Spirit of God.
Anyway, we’ll explore this more on Sunday. By the way, Terry Boch will be singing a beautiful song called “Awakenings” this Sunday, which you won’t want to miss.
Speaking of things you won’t want to miss–Tony Loeffler will be with us this Friday night performing a benefit concert for his prison ministry. Tony is a world-class jazz musician who gave up a lucrative career as a musician to bring the gospel to prisoners. You’re in for great music and some really powerful testimonies of God’s power.
You’ll, no doubt, want to cancel your Memorial Day weekend plans to Bermuda so you don’t miss the exciting weekend planned at MCC.
One Response to “Random Thoughts”
By Maria Patti on Jun 25, 2007 | Reply
Hi, my dear brother n law and awsome pastor.
I do visit your church website occasionally. I was browsing through your blog archives and reading some of your updates on happenings around you. It is enjoyable to be able to be connected with everyone up in nj through your blog. Whenever I listen to your messages or read what you say on your site here, I am always encouraged. Hope you continue blogging. Tell the family I send my love.
With Love,
Maria Patti