As a community we have seen, heard, and felt in our spirits the blessings that God has bestowed on us. As a community we have a Vision and Mission that points us forward.
Pastor Travis has done an excellent job in bringing our Vision and Mission into our community. There are quite a few verbs that call us into action. Express, cultivating, go, worship, grow, and serve are a few of these action words.
Working together as a community to put feet on this Vision and Mission provides us with a group of brothers and sisters who have the gifts and talents to move us forward as a community.
As I reflected on Pastor Travis’ sermons, annual report, and discussions I got really excited especially since I don’t need to do all of this myself! God’s got Immanuel and God’s got us on the path He forged for us.
As I prayed about Refuge, Reconciliation, and Renewal many texts from scripture came to mind. God has been and continues to move His people in these areas.
Then a small still voice asked, “What about each individual, what about you?” That was kind of a bothersome question until I really focused on the meaning of the question. As individuals we must keep moving forward in these areas of mission to be able to be part of a community that is embracing and moving forward on Refuge, Reconciliation, and Renewal.
Some points to reflect on. Are you a place of refuge? Are you a safe place for people to come to with their thanksgivings, or concerns; with their hurts or sorrows. In your life what does it mean to be a place/person of refuge? Are you a place of refuge in the community and world?
Are you a person of reconciliation? Are there those who have hurt you or that you have hurt. Not just in big ways but in small ways too. Are you a person who sees humanness as a struggle for all and Godliness as what you need to bring to the table of reconciliation. How can individuals reconcile our faith in this world?
Renewal, the transformative power of Jesus, is what brings us closer to His kingdom here on earth. Does change help you to know Jesus at a deeper level? How has Jesus transformed your life this past week?
As individuals of Refuge, Reconciliation, and Renewal we come together stronger as a community of Refuge, Reconciliation, and Renewal.
Two of our guiding principles help us to authentically reflect on these areas in our lives. Reflective Listening to Jesus as he guides us on this journey. Adventurous Thinking as we seek God’s guidance in our growing life with our Lord.
In Christ,
Pastor Sallie
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