“People don’t want a friendly church, they want friends.” I’m not sure where I first heard that, but I say it in every Membership Class because, although it’s not its main purpose, facilitating godly relationships is what a healthy church strives to do. A believer’s church family is one of the best gifts our Heavenly Father has given us – despite the fact that we’re all sinners!
Think about the last time the Lord used you to encourage a brother or sister in Christ. Maybe you blessed them with a compliment or a gift. Didn’t it feel great to be used by the Lord like that? Imagine if all of us became almost obsessed with being a blessing to each other. We’d come to church every Sunday (note: we’re also open on other days) looking for ways to bring God’s joy to people. I’m reminded of Jesus example: “the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28).
As I trust you know, we’re about to launch our Fall Ministries on September 7. What a great time to get more connected with our church family in a Community, Small, Group, or area of Service. As a larger church, we are blessed with many opportunities for connection and service. I hope you’ll take advantage of whatever the Lord leads you to do. We need each other – which means people need you!
For His glory,
Pastor Bill Bertsche
Executive Pastor
