People have always believed (even today) that God punishes people with sickness and disabilities. In this story from Jesus we get the privilege of sharing some good news, "God's not like that!"
Tag God, the Trinity, John
We cannot today determine the map of the future. We can only point toward the future, like a compass. One Life financial challenge points toward a) owning the building b) charity/compassion keeps alive the value of sacrifice (of 1996). One Life defines a culture (c). But we cannot determine Lakeland’s response to culture/the world. We can be “those people of Jesus” or we chase whatever new idea and resource comes along. That mistake will end the mission. The compass points the correct direction. Without a compass the map wanders.
What is a Christian community? It is a single functioning Body of Christ. It is thrown together as a stew, which cannot be taken apart. It is a gathered tale, a story in the midst of journey – together. As such it is full of ups and downs, “fruits and nuts.” Therefore, to “high-grade” out who belongs and who doesn’t, is a violation of the One Body of Christ.
In 1995 I sold the value that seeking friends are worth any price. And so Lakeland pays the price of sacrifice. Do we still love our seeking friends? I believe more than ever that the western modern world is on a quest. Will the church explore and answer this quest, or will it devolve into the religion of scribes and Pharisees? Our mission remains: “To build a community of authentic followers of Christ.”
No teaching message today. A 25th birthday celebration took place.
