Another Pastoral Epistle 8/29/18

Why?  Why? Many of the questions of a preschooler begin with that one word, why.  “Toothpaste is for brushing your teeth, not for eating,” and the little one asks, “Why?”  A parent says, “It is time to go to sleep,” and the response is, “Why?” All through the day, it is the same thing; “Why does a cat have fur?”  “Why is the sky blue?” “Why do I have to share?” And on and on it goes to the point you start singing the Billy Joel song, “Don’t ask me why.”  
 
I know that it can be exasperating to hear the why question, and at times it can even be an act of defiance, but their curiosity about the world around them is refreshing.  To a child, mystery and wonder are all part of their make-up as they grow and develop. I can’t help but ask, “Have we lost our capacity for wonder?” Scripture says, ‘The heavens declare the glory of God and the skies proclaim the work of His hands.”  Are we still astonished by its beauty? We can sing, “Amazinggrace, how sweet the sound,” but are we still amazed by His grace?  Are we still stunned by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and that He has taken up His residence in us?  
 
A book that I pick up and read certain sections of repeatedly is one written by Mark Buchanan called, “Your God is too Safe.”  The sub-title of that book is, “Rediscovering the Wonder of a God You Can’t Control.” Might there be a connection between wonder and control?  Do we secretly wish for a God that is safe and predictable? Do we prefer to reduce the Christian journey to formulas, seven-steps, and some kind of how-to manual?  The life-changing movement of God cannot be controlled and even predicted. That is why it leaves us breathless and wonder-struck! Church, let’s not lose the wonder of God, but continue to be amazed at what he is doing and wants to do in His church!  
 
We have a chance at the picnic and baptism on September 9 to witness several people publicly profess the name of Christ.  Are you part of a community group?  If not, I urge you to sign-up for a group in the weeks to come as they officially start up again on September 23.  Why community groups? Because the leadership of this church believes that the best way to carry out the “one-another” admonitions of Scripture is through smaller groups than our gathering time on Sunday mornings.  We believe that it is through smaller groups that relationships are established, and community is truly experienced. 
 
Soon you will be hearing about the Network workshop.  Consider attending this workshop.  Why? It is our desire as elders to move the right people into the right places of service.  Our growth as disciples of Christ is dependent upon being equipped for service and serving in the right place of ministry.  Is it time for you to discover your spiritual gift, personal style, and passion for serving? 
 
In the months to come, you will be asked to participate in the raising of funds as we enter into phase two of our capital campaign.  Phase one was back several years when EBC relocated to this facility.  Many of you have commented how the hand of God was evident in providing what was needed to get into this building.  Now we ask, “What’s next?” What is next for greater impact on our community? What is next in growing disciples at EBC?  What is next in strengthening our families? What is next in upgrading and enhancing our facility to facilitate growing deeper and having greater impact?  Your prayers are needed as we take our next steps!
 
Speaking of prayer, don’t forget prayer builders meets this Sunday from 10:05-10:25 in the room behind stage.  
 
Members, hope to see you tonight at the business meeting at 7:00.  We will meet in the fellowship hall. 
 
Blessings to you,
Pastor Brian