A Great Gift

The great Baptist Pastor and evangelist of the last century F.B. Meyer said this, “If I had my life to live over, I would spend more time encouraging others.”  As I chat with you my flock, how I am encouraged by the stories I hear of how you are touching each others' lives and the lives of many people around you.  It is a difficult time – we must, and I say must, self isolate – but as we are discovering, ministry, and vital ministry, is taking place through social media, the telephone and through prayer.

To the folks in Thessalonica, the Apostle Paul said, “Encourage one another and build one another up.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)  That is exactly what you are doing and I applaud and encourage you.   Just think, God has been preparing you and I over the past weeks, months and years for this very time.  We have spent time in the weight room. Now it is time to put on the pads and step onto the field.  You are meeting the challenge – you are bringing glory to God.  You may not think you are doing much but, in God’s eyes, you are reflecting His insurmountable grace to your brothers and sisters and the world around us (who need to see His love).  You are giving a great gift!

I hope this finds you well. But, if you are anxious this night, give it to Jesus – He can handle it.  Take the advice of the Apostle Peter, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)  I like the way our old friend J.B. Phillips puts it, “You can throw the whole weight of your anxieties upon him, for you are his personal concern.”  My friends, this night, let Jesus handle it. There is nothing too heavy for Him!

God bless – keep safe and keep in the love of Jesus – Pastor Ralph