Courage

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:13, 14

The passage above is a phenomenal charge. So often we know what we need to do but we neglect what is important. Each of us can probably list ten things that we need to get done today alone. This week I read an article that talked about how lack of discipline can prevent accomplishing goals. One of the points made in the article is that people constantly let their lives become interrupted. To do lists take a back seat to unscheduled activities that change plans in the blink of an eye. Can you relate? I certainly can.

With so many things vying for your time this season, have you sat down to think about what is really important for you and your family this Christmas? Maybe it is spending quality time at home with your kid’s without the television on. Or maybe it is spending a morning serving together as a family. It takes courage to stick to plans and manage time efficiently and it always takes courage to say no.

As we quickly approach Christmas, our hope is that you would take the charge from 1 Corinthians and find courage to continue leading your family. Thanks for reading and have a wonderful week.

-Matt

Teamwork

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up.”

Ecclesiastes 4:9, 10

One of the amazing benefits of being around a church during Christmas time is hearing about and experiencing generous acts of service. A few weeks ago, a couple thousand Christmas gift boxes for families in need were delivered here from people in the community. Those boxes are being shipped around the world to families that can’t afford gifts. For thanksgiving, meals were dropped off to be delivered to local families in need. Imagine the excitement of receiving a Thanksgiving feast when you’re unsure of when and where your next meal is coming.

We have all been in tough situations, in which we need a helping hand. In the passage above it talks about the values of having a companion or helper. Think this week about someone that might need your support, time or help. Let us be thankful for those that have helped us and willing to lend a helping hand this Christmas.

Matt