“A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” – Proverbs 18:24
I grew up on the side of an Appalachian Mountain in west-central Pennsylvania. In many respects, it was a boy’s dream. I was surrounded by woods, animals, and countless miles of ATV and dirt bike trails. There was opportunity for endless fun; but unfortunately, the only thing missing was friends. It’s not that I couldn’t make friends. It’s that, for a good portion of my growing up, I didn’t live near very many kids my age. But better than a friend my age, I had a “Pap” who lived down the road. My childhood is filled with memories of many summer days spent with him. Time spent working in his garage, rummaging in his shed, digging holes, riding on his tractor, and cruising in his big ‘ol station wagon with the AM radio on. My grandfather loved me, included me, taught me well, and treated me with respect. Looking back, he was more than a mentor. He was my pap, my friend. I’m a stronger, better, and more Christ-loving man because of him.
Do you or have you ever had a relationship like this in your life? Who are your people? Who do you love being around? Do you have people who lift your countenance, make you better, and bring you joy? Even as I write this, I realize that good friends can be hard to come by. But the reality is that the gospel has the power to make good friends. As a matter of fact, the gospel has the power to make people, who would otherwise not ever get along, experience a connection that is stronger than any earthly relationship. This week, the Apostle Paul is going to address the confidence that comes from our gospel connection. To prepare for Sunday, you can check out this week’s passage in 1 Thessalonians 2:17-20 and note the depth of the connection that Paul feels towards the church. As we read, it’s encouraging to note that these gospel bonds are just as true of you and I today.
Be sure to listen to the worship set as you prepare for worship.
Love you, Church.
Jerry Lingenfelter
Senior Pastor
SUNDAY AM PLAN
9:00 AM – Worship Service On Campus & Online (Lancaster Campus)
9:15 AM – Worship Service On Campus (Myerstown Campus)
11:00 AM – Worship Service on Campus & Online (Lancaster Campus)
SAVE MY SEATS FOR SUNDAY ON CAMPUS WORSHIP GATHERINGS – CLICK HERE
REGATHERING DETAILS – CLICK HERE
SUNDAY RESOURCES
Everything you need for Sunday is available on the Mission Church App under Sunday Resources or on our website.
- Mission Church App – mission-church.com/app
- Mission Church Website – mission-church.com/sundayresources