March 1, 2019
For full passage click: 2 Corinthians 3:1-2 …“Therefore, since it is by God’s mercy that we are engaged in this ministry, we do not lose heart.” vs. 1
We live in a time when many are lamenting the decline of the Christian church. All across the land congregations are losing members and closing, seminaries are declining in enrollment, and the percentage of people calling themselves religious is becoming smaller every year. In some places, there is almost a sense of panic as councils strategize about balancing budgets and deciding who to blame for the drop in attendance. Worship leaders bounce from one idea to another trying to find the liturgical silver bullet that will fill the pews. Pastors do their best to craft sermons that are meaty and light, funny and insightful, and full of touching stories. And week after week they see eyes glaze over and more people missing. It’s a tough time for the church of Christ! And sad to say, many are losing heart! Evidently Paul was being tempted to lose heart too, but he tells the Corinthians his morale was high. Not because things were going so well, they weren’t–but God’s mercy was great. Paul was thrilled to have the privilege of proclaiming transformation through Christ and couldn’t imagine a better gig! And that’s our consolation too! The ministry we’ve been given is not about results or numbers, it’s about walking the walk and proclaiming the compassion of Jesus. Not everyone will listen, but some will, and that will be enough!
Thought for the Day: What’s the morale in my congregation?
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