Friends,
It's been a few days since I have taken the opportunity to journal my thoughts. I have been under "orders" not to work on my laptop while here in Florida where my wife and I, along with Morgan and Cy, are getting some much needed rest and down time.
The weather has been very pleasant and the attractions are as enjoyable as ever. The attitude of the city's people is wonderful and our time among the Floridians here at our "home" away from home is always delightfully hospitable.
As I have prayerfully considered our national future and juxtaposed it against the church's evangelism efforts, the blunt brutality of darkness is once again eclipsed by the radiant light of hope found in the saving name of our Christos Savior, Jesus the Christ. Our hope is anchored steadfast in the love-laced work of Jesus for us.
What is so striking about this particular trip is the people's transparent desire, an absolute hunger for "refuge." A place for relief from the barrage of negative news and a place of safety from their worries. I was certain that I would find an economic slowdown and a measure of depression here due to the economic forecast, but quiet to the contrary, what I have experienced is an apparent mad rush by the common man to bring their children and grandchildren to a place of escape. People are desperate to find relief from their worries.
I am challenged by this observation. I want to challenge every church leader to join me in making the Church of Jesus Christ the "must-go-to" destination in our cities. Will you renew your commitment to become the destination church of your community? We are the weekend destination. I pray that people find your church to be the place of refuge they desperately seek. A refuge from worry and fear. Preach the resounding "good news" of the gospel of our Lord Jesus in such a way that men and women, boys and girls, are compelled by the Message to surrender all of their fear, every worry and anxious thought... Preach the Message of "good news" until people desire to surrender every sinful habit, earthy deed, and carnal desire to the saving Grace of our Lord.
I pray that your faith community will rock your city, town, and/or community with such a dynamic presentation of Jesus that every one will seek you out this Sunday! It's all about Sunday! Do it today - like they did it in the Book of Acts. Let the Church rock. Release the power of the people in your pews.... to the glory of Jesus our Savior!
