Dear Friends,
God’s grace is rarely as clear as it is with a newborn baby; and pure joy (albeit mixed with fatigue) is rarely so evident as it is on the faces of new parents. What a blessing it was to share in the Prado family’s joy this last week as their church!
I want to continue some thoughts on the Holy Spirit taken from John’s Gospel chapter 16. Our theme was the Teacher of Truth, and I started with a newspaper article about a “church for atheists” in Texas called Church of Freethought. In the article, the Executive Director said, “If Christianity were true, then I would want at least what Doubting Thomas got. I don’t think it’s too much to ask to be able to talk to a deity personally before I am asked to worship it.” What’s so lamentable about this man’s comment is that he used to consider himself a Christian, or at least from that “tradition.” Although Jesus warned his followers that his work on earth was almost done, he also promised that many would be blessed who never even saw him yet still believed (John 20:29).
How can this be? It’s the work of the Holy Spirit and the Spirit’s unique role as Teacher of Truth. I really wish for all those who struggle with the intangible nature of faith (this applies to all of us at one time or another) a personal experience with the Holy Spirit. Many people, even you and me, may have desired something like this atheist…to touch Jesus, to talk with him face to face, to ask all our questions. John 16:10 says that the Holy Spirit is God’s personal presence confirming everything about Jesus because he says, “I am going to the Father where you can no longer see me.” It’s a matter of God’s integrity or “righteousness,” as the scripture says, because God wants us to know the truth and won’t leave us orphaned although can’t tell us or be with us “personally” as this man said. The Holy Spirit is our Guide- both personally and collectively. See, God’s plan is that we should walk by faith not by sight (2Cor 5:7). It’s like a blind person who relies on a seeing person to maneuver through the store or cross the street. You know that guide sees what’s important and leads you in the right way. There is a high level of trust because you know that person can see things you can’t. The Holy Spirit has been with the Father from the beginning and will speak for Jesus and be Jesus’ presence among us. Have you been walking with the Holy Spirit recently? Where has God been leading you? How well are you trusting your Guide?
Of course, I ask you to continue praying for the Holy Spirit to be known in your life, our congregation, and the world. This Sunday we’ll be talking about the Holy Spirit as Power for Mission. I am very pleased that Rhonda Johnson will share about their about school & ministry in Korea. Besides giving the congregation an update, she’ll be sharing a special lesson with the children during Children’s Church about missions. Encourage your young people to come this Sunday! See you then!
Peace,
Pastor Amber
**********************************************
The Food Pantry is need of re-stocking! Please bring in extra staples this week. Also, if you are able-bodied and interested in helping shop for food supplies, please see Jean Welch. You don’t even have to like shopping, just lending your hands & feet is enough.
As of yet, no one has indicated they can help with the organization of the Children’s Church rooms. Again, only behind the scenes work is involved. Please see Pastor Amber if you can help at any point during the week.
