March signals the awakening of spring and brings a revitalizing energy that inspires us to appreciate every blooming flower and lengthening day. It’s a time for renewal, growth, and the anticipation of vibrant days ahead. As you know we are in the season of Lent – the 40-day period before Easter in which we seek to draw near to God by soberly reflecting on our brokenness as humans and striving to become more Christ-like.
Karen began the month with two more sermons from Paul’s letter to the church in Phillipi. In chapter 3 Paul exhorts the church to be alert and watchful for schemes of the enemy. He reminds them that to know Christ is to identify with Him in life, suffering, death, and resurrection. We can only do that when we’ve received His abundant grace. Once we have become children of God, we are faced with inevitable challenges. We will face hardships and discouragement, so how do we respond? In the popular movie Finding Nemo, lovable Dory sings the “just keep swimming” mantra whenever she or someone else is feeling down. These relatable words convey what Paul was writing: Press on, Hold fast, Walk in line conforming to the way of love, and Stand firm. OK, Paul’s words are much deeper and profound, but sometimes we need something simple to hold on to. The sentiment is the same – don’t give up, keep on truckin’, hang in there. We can use the same “mantra” for ourselves and also in encouraging each other. Let’s be honest – life is hard; sometimes really hard. As people of faith, we have resources: our heavenly father, of course, and the people God has put in our lives.
Nancy continued our series on Phillipians by reminding us that conflicts are an inevitable part of life. We may be tempted to “write off” those with differing points of views. That’s easy to do. “Those people” may use triggering words that evoke strong feelings in us. Euoida and Syntyche butted heads. How we handle conflict varies. Some try to ignore it; others seem to welcome it and are ready for a fight. As Christ-followers, how do we respond? Paul reminds the church that God calls us to be ‘peacemakers.’ We should be willing to seek to understand the other’s point of view. We can sincerely open our minds and hearts to see our brother or sister’s side of an issue. We are talking the church here. Those outside of the church may not understand, but God calls in the body of Christ to practice true humility and forgiveness. For the sake of Christ we should try our best to empathize with others. When there is a break in relationship, how can we seek reconciliation? God sent His son to reconcile man to Himself. He calls on us to strive to live in harmony – we remind ourselves that our primary allegiance and loyalty is to His kingdom.
Last week JR wrapped up our series on Philippians by looking at Paul’s letter to the church at Philippi in which Paul says he has ‘learned’ to be content in whatever situation he faces. How can we learn to practice the power of being present, grateful, and content each moment of our lives? By focusing on God as Sovereign, Savior, and sufficient One, we too can strive for that same level of contentment Paul was able to achieve.
To complete a busy month at LVC, the church had a beautiful time of sharing testimonies. Stories were shared reflecting the faithfulness of God; then a wonderful time of sharing delicious food with our family meeting. We reflected on what God is doing and hearing His nudges for what He may have in store for us.
Lastly, haven’t the Lent devotions been heart-warming? Hearing uplifting music and listening to our friends’ voices sharing insights on Scripture and prayers has been so powerful and encouraging.
Hello April! We look forward to celebrating our Savior’s resurrection.
With you on the journey,
Jim Roberson
Pastoral Care Team, Liberty Vineyard Church
(678) 469-8156
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