Sunday Words of Encouragement August 1, 2021

We had thought about attending church this morning to share in the five-year celebration of our current Pastor and his family. Unfortunately, Hubby was exposed to Covid on Tuesday and has felt like he has been fighting a low grade fever so we thought it best to stay home.

Five years ago our Pastor expressed his goals as building relationships with God, one another and the community. That matched what our congregation was looking for.

Pastor continued his sermon series: Undisputed.
Pastor asked the congregation to pick what they consider an extraordinary “Beautiful Thing”. My response was “God’s Creation”. Many others mentioned nature, sunrise, sunset, rainbows, trees, ocean waves. Also, babies, families, and more. An old car may be a beautiful thing to an almost 16-year-old.

Pastor expressed that “the church” is a beautiful thing. Especially the church when it is functioning as it is meant to be. Like a beautiful, comforting handmade quilt. But when things aren’t functioning as they should (like an old car that isn’t running), isn’t as beautiful.

The early New Testament church was a beautiful thing – sold out for the cause of Christ. They were ready to sacrifice for their testimony. They had enthusiasm to share – food, comfort, caring, and the Word of God. Colossians 1:1-6.

Paul describes the beautiful church in Colossians 3:1-4, 12-18. A beautiful church is one that is laser focused on Jesus, not the things of this world.

Do we really understand that our ultimate life isn’t here in this world but is found in eternity – a life with God. It doesn’t matter who you are or your station in life. What matters is your relationship with God, your faith and commitment to that faith. Why are we here if the population between heaven and hell doesn’t change?

Outside [of the church], the population isn’t marked by people that are representatives of Jesus and have a love for people that says, “I have something to give you. It’s Good News!” Followers of Christ have a message to bring the world.

Bring your best to Christ. The Church is more than a social club. Share with others to change the population between heaven and hell. We get to decide who we will be. Will we be “the beautiful church”.

I looked through my long song list and added more while looking for a video for today.
This one is what I chose as fitting: Lose My Soul!

Verses for Today:
Colossians 3:14-17
14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Lord, I pray, again, that You help me keep the right focus!