NOT ASHAMED!
Paul wrote to Timothy, a young Pastor in Ephesus, "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15 (ESV) This message of encouragement and direction is one that can be applied to all of us. When you really believe in something or someone, you have no problem promoting and sharing with others. This should be our desire in our Faith and how we share with others. As I have said often, to be confident in our walk and talk - but not cocky. A cocky, narrow-minded, forceful "believer" is more dangerous than one who is silent. But we should be neither! Instead, as David prayed and sang, in Psalm 19:14 (ESV) "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer." When this is truly the case, and our thoughts and meditations are on our Lord, then our words and actions will share the message of the Gospel - with unashamed confidence. And our Heavenly Father is pleased.
Speaking of a strong workman of the Truth, our friend and Pastor, Lee Porter, III, not only leads us in wonderful, meaningful worship, he is one who is always working behind the scenes - sometimes solo and often with other unsung heroes of the Church. Things like producing and printing the order of worship. Working with our vendors who help keep our facility in great shape. Working to get our WiFi and communications better. Again, most of this goes unnoticed. And though "retired", he really isn't. Lee is one of the top officials in the TSSAA for several sports, especially Volleyball. He was recently selected to help officiate the Regional and State tournaments. This is a huge honor. (So sometimes, when Lee heads out quickly after worship, he is on his way to a tournament, etc.) CONGRATULATIONS PASTOR LEE AND THANK YOU!!
Also, Congratulations to Patti Morena and her successful Bike Ride raising significant funds for the MS Society. (Patti is another unsung hero in our FCC family)
As we talked about last week, we have many of our neighbors in our State and others, who need help from the recent hurricanes. There are some great organizations that I encourage you to work with now. And remember, that we are actively looking to find the perfect fit, a sister Church, that we can help and support them through the long haul. More to come and hopefully soon. In the meantime, please keep these folks in your prayers and pray that God guides us as we find our future "partner in ministry".
This Sunday is our monthly potluck and we are having a Pizza Potluck. If you have a favorite flavor, let Ms. Val know, otherwise we will go with the normal favorites. Feel free to bring salad or dessert, or just come and enjoy a time of fun, food, and fellowship. We will continue in Ephesians with this Sunday's topic "Mystery". I thank God for you. We have been missing several of you who have been away, and for good causes. So "welcome home!" I hope to see you this Sunday.
Always Remember,
You ARE Loved!
Pastor Lonnie
"More in '24"
(You can reach Pastor Lonnie by calling or texting 615-496-2502 or send an email to lonniecastle@gmail.com)