We are READY

I want to echo a few of the thoughts I shared with the congregation Sunday, August 22nd as we begin the new school year and opportunities to make Disciples for Jesus Christ are at hand. St. Paul said “Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone,doing everything I can to save some. I do everything to spread the Good News and share in its blessings.” (New Living Translation).
We have made lots of changes over the last year. I think it all started when we saw the opportunity for ministry through the renovation of what was formerly called the Dungeon. It was a place that was dark and damp and musty and moldy. Walls were takenout. Carpet was removed. Trash was taken out. Outside drainage was improved and now we have an area that can be used for ministry. From that day something began to happen.
The Library was cleaned. The Southwest room off the sanctuary was redecorated. The storage rooms off the sanctuary were cleaned and organized. Children planted flowers at the entrances of the church and provided some color to the curb appeal. We have reestablished the Cry Room for parents who feel uncomfortable when their child is a little fussy. It really doesn’t bother me. I would rather have them crying in church than not there at all. This Cry Room also doubles as a fellowship area.
The service times were changed to attract and be available to a larger diverse group and was combined into one service in order that we might be more in fellowship with one another. Through the summer we have experienced spirit filled services that allow persons to connect to their faith.
We already have a great missions programs involving over 20 folks on trips to Oklahoma last year and Kentucky this year. We have ministries in Kansas City of feeding and clothing the homeless. We have a connection with Grand Avenue Temple and
Lazarus’ Table. We are constantly looking for new ways to connect people to the ministry of Christ right here in Lawson, Missouri.
The last change occurred when I moved my office into the Library. Having my office in the back of the sanctuary made it difficult for guests to find me. It was dark, hot and humid in the summer, cold in the winter. We needed to have two air conditioners or two furnaces running all week and now require only one saving the church funds that can be used for ministry. We have moved some of the library books into the old office making them readily available to all. This change also provided a restroom close at the back of the room and we plan to put a changing table in the restroom. There is already a sign beside the door that says, Restroom/Changing station.
WE ARE READY. Now we need to be like Paul and call the Spirit to guide us to invite those who are without a church home. We are not in the business of stealing other church’s parishioners. We are called to reach those without a connection. Who can you invite over the next four weeks? Start now by asking God to point you in the directions of those persons and then follow His lead.