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Pastor's Page

Posted on April 4, 2008 ...

      It gave me great joy to have some brothers come and tell about your faithfulness to the truth and how you continue to walk in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. 3 John 3-4 NIV
     I recently completed a Bible Study I was leading on the letters of John in the New Testament. Both 2 John and 3 John include affirmations of the author's joy in hearing good reports about his fellow Christians.
John is right. A good report that reflects upon you is fulfilling. However, a report that reflects well upon someone you love is even more rewarding. For example, if you brag on me, it makes me feel good. But if you brag on my children, it makes me feel GREAT! In light of this, I would like for you to know the joy that I have experienced upon the receipt of recent news about you.
     It gave me great joy to hear about your hospitality. In recent weeks I have shared in conversations with several church guests who complimented the friendliness of our church. Thank you for you initiative in helping people feel welcome to our congregation. Entering into an unfamiliar place for the first time can be intimidating. Warm greetings and introductions quickly relieve this anxiety. You are helping make this initial experience a positive one.
     It also gave me great joy to read our stewardship reports for the end of first quarter. Because our operating budget in 2007 closed with a 4% deficit, it was important that 2008 start in a positive financial manner. As you can see from the numbers included in the statistical figures below, we completed the first quarter in the black by about $9,700.00. Compared to the first financial quarter of 2007, our budget giving in 2008 is up by four percent. No single individual or family is responsible for this increase. Rather it is an accomplishment of the entire church family. But please do not translate this news to mean that we can now slack off in our stewardship. Note also that we did not give at a sufficient level to fully fund our budget. And remember that our adopted budget for this year included some challenging budget cuts, leaving us little wiggle room for further cuts. Please keep up the good work!
     Thanks so much for adding to my pride. It is a joy to be your pastor. See you Sunday. Jay