Jun. 10, 2006
Settling into a new church
It's Sunday evening and we've enjoyed another Lord's Day with fellow believers. It's interesting how we evaluate a new church, comparing it with the old ones and slotting it into a new hole in our journey. It's hard to sum up this new church, it's got elements of the past (tradition and roots being similar to my past) but also a flavour of its own. I get a sense that there is discouragement and disappointment prevailing. There is perhaps even a slight lack of cohersion. As we get to know some of the folk, this feeling is confirmed. Comments like "lack of communication" lead us to this conclusion. I am not easily discouraged by this, but feel that God has led us here for a reason. I definitely jump in with two feet anyway. I want to help out wherever possible and want to get involved but I'm trying to ease in slowly and prayerfully so that I don't step on toes or upset anyone.
The first place I feel of service is in the children's work. Girls' Rally is a wonderful work and reaches about 20 families. I've enjoyed the craft time and mother and daughter night especially. This was wonderful because I could connect with other women. I'm starting to fit in which feels good.
The message today was very poignant for me. The missionary who spoke mentioned "living in the community". He described living in Mozambique and building his "hut" like the other homes and getting the locals to help build it. We have often commented that if we could build a house, we would build a Canadian house with insulation, double glazed windows, and central heating; NOT like these New Zealand houses. They're terribly cold! This message was from Philipians 4. It was about becoming a prosperous church. Building one another up, being content (v11) and having concern for the church and community (v16), giving and receiving, being salt and light etc. It was an excellent message.
He reminded me that our deeds are a reflection of God's love. He also pointed out how Protestantism has emphasized being saved by grace as opposed to earning our salvation through good deeds. It's unfortunate that we sometimes miss the giving and receiving of God's love when we stop doing good deeds. I admit to laziness and have had to pull up my socks. I miss my Catholic friend who was constantly blessing me with her generosity and love. She is saved by grace but knows something of the blessing of giving. I've never felt so in need until now, having moved away from her. I really miss that friend.
I don't know how to end this but I'm in need of a friend to bless and be blessed. Lord, please grant me this friend and help me find my place in this new church where you have placed us. I want to be salt and light to the women and families. I want to encourage those who need encouragement and give to those who are in need. Amen
The first place I feel of service is in the children's work. Girls' Rally is a wonderful work and reaches about 20 families. I've enjoyed the craft time and mother and daughter night especially. This was wonderful because I could connect with other women. I'm starting to fit in which feels good.
The message today was very poignant for me. The missionary who spoke mentioned "living in the community". He described living in Mozambique and building his "hut" like the other homes and getting the locals to help build it. We have often commented that if we could build a house, we would build a Canadian house with insulation, double glazed windows, and central heating; NOT like these New Zealand houses. They're terribly cold! This message was from Philipians 4. It was about becoming a prosperous church. Building one another up, being content (v11) and having concern for the church and community (v16), giving and receiving, being salt and light etc. It was an excellent message.
He reminded me that our deeds are a reflection of God's love. He also pointed out how Protestantism has emphasized being saved by grace as opposed to earning our salvation through good deeds. It's unfortunate that we sometimes miss the giving and receiving of God's love when we stop doing good deeds. I admit to laziness and have had to pull up my socks. I miss my Catholic friend who was constantly blessing me with her generosity and love. She is saved by grace but knows something of the blessing of giving. I've never felt so in need until now, having moved away from her. I really miss that friend.
I don't know how to end this but I'm in need of a friend to bless and be blessed. Lord, please grant me this friend and help me find my place in this new church where you have placed us. I want to be salt and light to the women and families. I want to encourage those who need encouragement and give to those who are in need. Amen