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Pastor's Page

Posted on May 30, 2006 ...

Today, take notice of every bridge you drive across. There are bridges that span creeks, rivers, other roadways and a variety of other gaps. While some are large, impressive, and beautiful in their own way, most are plain, and simple. All of them perform a common primary function: to connect places together that would otherwise be separated.
In a sense, the church is in the bridge building business. Our task is to construct methods through which the love of Jesus can reach and connect with people who do not know the Gospel. However, we can easily become so preoccupied with ourselves that we neglect this essential part of our calling. The church was never designed to exist for the sake of itself. When this does occur, congregations become islands without bridges, isolating themselves from the people and places that most need to experience the love of Jesus in a tangible way.
This Sunday we begin a new Sunday School year. I am challenging every Sunday School class to build at least two bridges during the twelve months ahead. In other words, I want every Bible Study class to design and implement two or more community ministries. The only stipulation is that the primary recipients in these ministries be people outside of our church.
Teachers and class leaders: Please put this idea on the itinerary of your class discussion in the weeks ahead. Just as every bridge is unique, think of some unique and exciting ways to span the love of God into our community. I am compiling a list of suggested ministries for you, if you need them. These suggestions will be attached to your attendance reports this Sunday. Once your class has decided what bridge you will build, communicate your plans to the church office. We will feature these on a display that will soon appear in our Welcome Center. Together, lets make 2006 a great year of ministry emphasis here at North Cleveland Baptist Church. May we be living proof of a loving God to a watching world.
In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16 NIV) - Jay