And Now the Time Approaches

Scripture: And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:24-25

Observation: As the writer of Hebrews continues his instructions to the Jewish Christians about proper living and remaining strong in their faith, he includes this, which is that they are to encourage each other's faith and activities. They are to gather together and give each other motivation for continuing to love others and perform good deeds.

Application: This is a famous verse, often declared in the context of supporting church attendance. It is true that one of the major benefits of going to church is to be with other Christians who encourage your good work, and where leaders teach about what we should be doing both collectively and individually. Our pastor is currently doing a series on just this - what we should be doing in our lives as Christians - and the first two weeks have been about reading the bible, and prayer. These are good reminders for all, and good lessons for new believers.

And we do have new believers! We had 15 baptisms - adult professions of faith - two weeks ago, and many were powerful testaments of lives completely changed by Jesus. Our church still sees these kinds results regularly, with 30-50 baptisms a year, and it is moving and meaningful every time, to know that heaven rejoices with us for every soul finding faith in Jesus.

Within just a couple months, my wife and I will begin attending a different church. As she retires, we know we cannot remain at our church, at least in the short-term, for she will need to allow space for her successors to succeed and learn without her. We too need this, for we both could use some advanced teaching from other pastors. However, we will miss the heart of our church for the lost, and the focus on creating a path for those who have previously rejected Jesus but now can find their way 'home'.

We poured a lot into our church, obviously my wife the most as it has been her career for 14 years, but we have collectively given of our time, talents, and treasure. The truth is, I love it all, and when someone comes up out of the water simultaneously smiling, crying, and shouting for joy ... and in my heart I hear all of heaven celebrate ... it just lets me know these have been special years. And we will not give up meeting together, especially as we see the day approaching.

Prayer: Lord, may your hand alone guide us to where you would have us be in the future, both in the broad sense of our life, and in the immediate sense of every Sunday. When we follow your instruction, may we also find new energy and new ways to serve your kingdom on earth. Amen.