I am at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Charlotte, NC for a couple of weeks. This is Year #2 of my Doctor of Ministry Program which is called Pastoral Theology in Practice. This residency is focused on the person of the pastor: calling, identity, leadership development, and spiritual formation. I am really grateful for this time to study, to discuss lots of reading, and to hone my craft with pastors from around the world.
Dear Restoration,
“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hears with His love.”
Romans 5:3-5 (NLT)
This is such a great reminder as we finish the first week of Lent: God dearly loves us. And the Holy Spirit is playing that message on repeat, in our hearts, all day long. Thank you, God. I hope you are hearing it, over and over.
Just a few quick reminders of things that are happening in our community:
This Sunday, at 5pm, we are hosting, at the church, a conversation about Cultivating a Healthy Marriage. Whether you are married or planning to be married, we hope you’ll come and learn some practical wisdom from our wonderful panel of 3 couples who’ve been through it! Childcare (5th Grade & below) is provided. Please RSVP if you are intending to join us.
Then, on Sunday March 3rd, at 5pm, we will offer a healing service for you and your friends. As you walk through the wilderness of Lent, experiencing temptations yet also reminders of provision, perhaps God is inviting you to ask for healing. Come join us in prayer, worship, and communion on March 3rd at 5pm.
Did you know that we are changing all of our worship times and piloting a 3rd service from Easter, March 31 to June 16th? Catch up on the news, here. Let us know which service you can serve as a volunteer, here.
Our Director of Outreach, Rev. Scott Buckhout, sent a wonderful newsletter last week with lots of updates from our outreach partners and lots of ideas for how you might give yourself to the work Christ is doing in the world, during this season of Lent. Take a look and see where you might feel a nudge to say yes.
See you on Sunday for Lent 2 as “We wish to see Jesus,” who said, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me.” (Mark 8:34 NLT)
By the power of your Word and Spirit, Lord, give us grace to say yes. -David
