Is it possible for a church to experience growth during these tumultuous times? I would say ‘absolutely’ but it depends on the people.
Recently I have been reading about Nehemiah and the contingency of people he took back to Jerusalem to rebuild the wall and restore the city. They faced many obstacles but in chapter 4:6 we read,” So we built the wall (in 52 days) and the entire wall was joined together up to half its height, for the people had a mind to work.” That last statement reminds me of you – the people of Jubilee. Every time we have had a workday or needed something done, we put the word out and you have responded in such great ways. We are a ‘mature’ congregation but Jubilee has an energy that is amazing.
Nehemiah did not build the wall by himself. The people joined hearts and limbs with him and they made it happen. Recently I was reading about the football great, Walter Payton. He was the Hall of Fame running back for the Chicago Bears. During his career, he ran over 9 miles carrying a football. But you may not know that every 4.4 yards, he was knocked down by some guy twice his size. Think about that for a moment…knocked down every 4.4 yards…BUT HE DIDN’T STAY DOWN! He kept getting up and running forward regardless of the opposition.
You folks of Jubilee remind me of Walter Payton and Nehemiah. So, in answer to the question, I began with – “Can a church grow in times like we are presently facing?” I don’t know about other churches but I believe Jubilee can and will, because of your love for the LORD and people for whom He died.
A person in the New Testament that I greatly admire is Andrew. Just about every time you read of him, he was bringing someone to Christ. He brought his brother Simon who soon became known as Peter. He brought a young boy with his lunch. Jesus blessed that boy’s lunch and was able to feed thousands.
Do you love the LORD? Do you want to help grow His church? When was the last time you brought someone to Jubilee? My commitment is to make our services rich and meaningful in our worship, fellowship and help people experience the joy of the LORD. It blesses me every time someone comes up to me and says, “Pastor, I want you to meet _______.” It is a team effort. So, let’s go forward and do great things for the glory of God.
In His love,
Leonard
