9God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
– 1 Corinthians 1:9

18For through him (Jesus) we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. 19So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God
– Ephesians 2:18–19

It’s always great to receive an invitation isn’t it? It’s encouraging when your presence is wanted and appreciated. Conversely, not receiving an invitation can weigh heavily. Perhaps one could argue that we shouldn’t let such things bother us, but the reality is that we are wired with a desire for relationships and community. Certainly, some have a stronger desire for this than others; but I’ve yet to meet a person who doesn’t appreciate a call to participate even if they choose to turn it down.

Now consider that God has called you into fellowship with His Son. Further, let it sink in that you are always invited. God has granted and promised you limitless access into His presence. Listen, as much as we may appreciate the invite and enjoy being in one another’s company, it is certainly understandable for us to also need our space. Let’s pause and realize that God never needs space from you. He calls you. He invites you. He delights in you. He created you to be in fellowship with Him. He will not leave you, abandon you, send your call to voicemail, ghost you on text, or block you online. How do we know? Because He promises not to! And our God is a promise-keeping God.

This week in our Courageous Calling series, we will be finding our strength in God’s promises. Please take some time to read Exodus 5-7:5 and consider how God kept His promises even when Moses and the Jewish people were responding quite annoyingly and rudely. Take some time to reflect on how often we tend to be like Moses and the people and then consider how strong God’s love and integrity are in keeping His promises to us.

Prayer Requests:

  1. Please pray for Tim and Donna Lantz. Tim’s mother passed away earlier this week.
  2. Please pray for John Segnor who had invasive surgery on his hand, specifically his thumb, to correct several painful joints.
  3. Please pray for the Trinidad team as they finish up their ministry there and travel home on Monday.

Check out the worship set!

 

Loved & sent with you,

Pastor Jerry