What It's All About

As this is my first blog in many years,  I must say that I do this with a measure of trepidation.  The reasons are two-fold:  first, I wonder if anyone will read it.  Second, I am concerned as to whether I have enough material.  I fear, between this and Sunday mornings, how redundant I might become.

However, since my last blog, the church has nearly doubled in size.  This means, in theory, if four people were reading it before, there should be eight of you reading it now.  That's oddly encouraging.  As far as material goes, I’ll just have to be creative, and you’ll have to bear with me when I tangent into things like last night’s Oiler game. 

If all goes well I’ll be posting twice a month:  on the 10^th and the 20^th.  The podcasts will be uploaded on the 1^st and 15^th.

I spent a bit of time this summer recruiting people to be part of an Evangelism Team for the church.  Typically this means doing things that Next tends to be adverse to.  Like handing out tracks, knocking on doors, giving out fliers or having an event for the community.  (Usually the community doesn’t show-up).

I wanted to do something that fit us, and I am pleased that a group of people have decided to be part of this ministry.  They will be praying for those who don’t know Jesus, hanging out with them, and in time, invite them to church or share why they believe in Jesus. 

My excitement level for this ministry rose recently.  In the past couple of weeks two of my friends from Starbucks came to church.  Neither is a Christian – both aren't sure about God’s existence.  They both like our church.  One said to me ‘I am not sure about God, but I sure learned a lot being there.’  I’ll take that.

In the same month I met a young lady who has come to Next a few times.  She said to me ‘I’m not sure which religion I believe in, but I like what I see and hear at this church.’  I’ll take that too.

This is what it is all about.  It is easy for a church to become inwardly focused.   And it is important that we care for each other, grow in faith and fellowship with one another.   But we can never be only about ourselves.  We must be about those around us that don’t know the love and grace of Jesus.  If we believe that what we believe is Truth, we should feel compelled to let others know.

I’m pleased that a few people have decided to make this a priority.