First Presbyterian Church

A number of weeks ago, I explained that we are living in a time of high velocity change that is characterized by a shift in how truth is understood and in a world where the Christian worldview can no longer be assumed. In order to minister effectively in this new world, we need to recapture the missionary vision and purpose of the church: that being making disciples and meeting human need. As we move forward toward a vision of becoming more like Christ, we can make a difference for God in this radically new world.

But how do we move toward this vision, practically? Well, we engage in certain practices that purposefully place us in the presence of God. Then through those practices, God begins to transform us. Two of these practices can be grouped under the heading of “reach.” These are ways that we reach up to God and reach out to others.

The first is the practice of witness. This is bearing witness of the reality of God in our lives to others. We tell people, when appropriate, what God is teaching us. For example: perhaps God is teaching you to be more patient. Well, share that with someone. Perhaps you have experienced a real feeling of forgiveness from God. Tell someone! Witness is really as simple as that.

Now, in addition to speaking of the reality of God in our lives, there will be times when we will want to share specifically of our faith in the saving power of Christ. We may even be in a position to invite another person to give their heart to Jesus. I guess when you boil it all down, witness is really one thirsty soul telling another thirsty soul where to find a drink of water.

The second practice is that of prayer. John Calvin, the father of Presbyterian Church, said that prayer is “the chief exercise of faith, and the way that we daily receive God’s benefits.” Now, I would guess that most of our prayers consist of “health and welfare” prayers. “Help John with his surgery. Help Marge with her illness, etc.” These are good and important prayers.

There are, however, two other categories of prayer that are just as important. The first is the prayer of “selection.” This is a prayer when we ask God to reveal to us on whom we need to be focusing our attention. “Lord, who is it that you would like me to encourage today?” is a prayer of selection. This type of prayer will develop in you the understanding that you are in partnership with God. God will answer these prayers, and you will get excited when you see God using you to bless another person.

The other category is the prayer of “discipleship.” This is when we pray that another person would grow in their knowledge and love of God. This is a particularly important prayer for parents to pray for their children and for church members to pray for their leaders. Your deacons and elders have been praying this type of prayer for each other for over 6 months now.

When we reach up to God in prayer and reach out to other in witness, we begin to see as God sees, and we begin to be molded more into the image of Christ. When people see that our faith really makes a difference in how we live, they will be drawn to us and will want to know what we have and how they can get it. With a whole church full of people witnessing and praying, our message and ministry cannot help but be relevant to this new world we live in.

I encourage you to ask God to show you to whom you need to share the reality of God in your life. Then, I would like you to pray for that person. Watch what happens! It will be amazing.

Grace and peace to you.
Your friend and pastor,
Pastor Lee