Friends,

Spring is here and summer is just around the corner. As you prepare for summer, let me encourage just a few things:

1) Prioritize spiritually forming activities for the sake of others. Many of us want to be a blessing to others. We want to work well in our jobs, bless our kids, and serve our community well. Sadly, we will never serve others well if we are not spiritually whole. Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart for from it flow the springs of life.”

How do you guard your heart? For centuries, Christians have guarded their heart through regular rhythms of Bible reading and prayer throughout the day. So too, Christians have worked for 6 days, and then rested on a seventh day to worship God with the gathered church. Christians have fasted regularly (think weekly or monthly). Christians have spent time in solitude and silence. Christians have met in intimate groups of other Christians to confess sin, share burdens, and to pray for one another. For centuries, Christians have chosen a life of simplicity so they can overflow with a life of generosity. This starts with a budget, moves into tithes and offerings, and culminates in a life of sacrificial giving.

Before you plan your vacations, before you sign up your kids for soccer, and before you go to bed tonight, make sure you have on your daily, weekly, and monthly calendars spiritually forming practices to sustain you and bless you (and ultimately the world!).

2) Say thank you often. Thank God throughout the day. Thank your teachers for what they’ve taught you. Thank your bosses, coworkers, and employees for serving. Thank your parents and children. Thank your pastors, Bible teachers, and small group leaders. You are the person you are today because of God’s grace, most evident in the lives of those around you. Say thank you early and often.

Upcoming Activities:

Baptism service May 24: Please contact Pastor Matt immediately if you want to get baptized May 24!

Congregational Meeting and Potluck: After our May 17th worship service.

To close, know that I am thankful for you. You make my life richer.

In Christ,

Pastor Matt