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In our quarterly newsletters I will try to give a few thoughts of how I feel the church is doing as well as give some challenges for you to think personally about your faith.
1) We are in a season of growth at BCC. Our attendance and finances have been really good (the highest they have ever been). We have so many people coming to church, bible studies and youth groups. We now have three full time pastors. We see so many people willing to serve, give and help out. It is amazing! We have so many believers of varying ages and experiences that we can be friends with. We should give thanks for this. And we need to pray that we be good stewards of all God has given us, to keep the focus on JESUS, His Word & Mission, and to be generous.
2) Ever since coming to this church 13 years ago, my biggest concern is just how busy families are today. My home, maybe like yours, has both of us working, and kids in so many activities. And with phones that never sleep in our pockets it can feel like we are always running. Our lives are just too full. We have very little margins. We rarely have moments without distraction. Where will God fit in our busy life?
When I was growing up materialism was the big sin. Today I fear it is busyness that is
keeping most of us from the Lord. We say 'yes' to every good thing. We don't want to
miss out on anything. But we do miss out. We don't have a moment to be still. We don't
have time with our wife undistracted. Time with God and His people at church. Time of
good rest or play with our kids that isn't organized. We don't have time for deep
thinking, meditation, critical thinking and prayer, that is all necessary for spiritual
growth and depth.
The world has busied our lives right up with many good things we can't say 'no' to. All of
this will have long term consequences if we don't recognize it is happening and adjust
our life to His perfect plan. We need margins. We need to put what is most important in
the most important place. We need other believers, and we need worship, prayer and the
Word. I'd encourage you to think deeply about what Jesus was saying in the Sermon on
the Mount (Matthew 5-7) and the parable of the Sower (Matthew 13). What can you do
to live a healthier Christian life?
3) My final encouragement to you is to watch your heart and attitude this election season.
Our country is divided, let's pray for it. And let's remember that this nation won't last
forever, but God's kingdom will. And so will our brother in Christ, so lets not let it divide
US. Even if we vote differently at times, we are ONE eternal family in Christ. Our politics
should not divide us as a people - for we are of every tribe, language and nation. The
king and kingdom we serve is not of this world. I care deeply what happens in America,
and I love that I get to live here...and I do care about some of the issues that we are
facing in this election, but my hope remains FULLY in Jesus and I live my life for Him. I don't believe in a perfect candidate, or that there is only one way to vote if you are a Christian. So I pray, and privately vote for who I think God is leading me to vote for in this imperfect nation and world.
Love ya friends! Pastor Dan