Church, watch out and beware of what you are putting inside of you. What we continually consume has the ability to shape our thoughts, influence our attitudes, and eventually become visible through our actions. Consider intentionally filling yourself with those things that promote peace, love, joy, and unity. In a world that offers us a steady diet of division, anger, fear, and confusion, we must be intentional about what we allow to take root within our spirits. Feed your faith. Protect your peace. Make room for those things that draw you closer to God and one another.
Our Wednesday Night Bible Study will focus on Revelation 21:1–7 (NRSVUE) under the theme “The Promise of the New Creation” – God’s Ultimate Renewal and Eternal Presence. This powerful passage reminds us that God is ultimately in the business of making all things new. Tears, pain, mourning, and death will not have the final word. God’s promise is renewal, restoration, and an eternal dwelling among God’s people. Come ready to study, reflect, and be encouraged by the hope found in God’s Word.
This Sunday, the preached Word will be delivered by Rev. Dr. Christal Bell Bonner. Please be in prayer for her as she prepares to bring forth the Word of God. We are privileged to have Rev. Dr. Bell Bonner serving as our Minister to Children, Youth, and Young Adults, helping us nurture and develop the generations who will carry the witness of Christ forward.
I am also grateful for the opportunity to have written an article for the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty. This opportunity grew out of my visit to Oak Flat in Arizona this past November. Experiences such as these remind us that our Christian witness calls us to remain attentive to matters of faith, justice, religious liberty, and the dignity of our neighbors.
Church, please also be in prayer for the residents of Gary, Indiana. As we pray, we will continue to explore tangible ways that New Hope can be a source of support to the people and communities there. Our prayers should sensitize us to the needs of others and prepare us to respond when opportunities for service arise.
Finally, let us all invite at least one person to join us for Bible Study, Church School, or Worship Service.
Church, guard what enters your spirit, remain hopeful about what God is making new, and continue looking for opportunities to put our faith into action.
Let’s keep the charge of the Lord!
With faith and hope,
Reverend Aaron Tinch
Pastor
