Converge
Missionary
We are all called to become missionaries. Jesus gave us the Great Commission to "Go into the world and preach the good news to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned." You can be a missionary in your home, neighborhood, school, or place of employment. Go! - Pastor Mike
Tape
I pass a signpost each day that has a huge piece of strapping tape stuck to it. High winds and heavy rains have not dislodged it. I removed it today when I was out running and threw it away. That is what Jesus said we should do in the parable of the unforgiving debtor. Throw away the sticky anger you have stuck on your brother and forgive him. - Pastor Mike
Faults
When we are not motivated by love, we become critical of others. We see only their faults and then the unity of believers is broken. Rather than focusing on someone's shortcomings, make a list of their strengths. Remember that Jesus commanded us to love others as we love ourselves (Matthew 22: 39) - Pastor Mike
Titus 2
Self-control is mentioned or implied in Titus 2 at least 5 times. In any congregation, we will have differing opinions about tradtitions, worship, dress, and musical styles that are not addressed in the Bible. Since we are a diverse group, we need wisdom and discernment to be discreet, and to master will, tongues, and passions, so that Christ is not dishonored. - Pastor Mike
Control
Rebecca Pippert, in her book, "Out of the Salt Shaker and into the World" says, "We are control freaks. We seek to live our lives calling all the shots instead of answering to God's rule. We've been created to be God centered, and we are hopelessly self-centered. Sin has left us addicted to ourselves." This is a great definition of what sin is! - Pastor Mike
Caring
Caring for others is often a task that people shy away from. Galatians 4:13-14 tells about how the Galatian churches welcomed Paul even though he was sick and was somewhat of a burden to them. Jesus has called us to serve the homeless, hungry, sick, and imprisioned. How is God calling you today to help those who are in need? - Pastor Mike
Mission
In John 19: 25-17, Jesus called from the cross to John, to take care of his mother, Mary. Just think about how things would have been if John didn't stay at the foot of the cross or was talking to someone and missed Jesus' words. Are you fully present and listening to what Jesus wants you to accomplish in his name? - Pastor Mike
Fire
A number of youth and young adults went to the Acquire the Fire event in Lansing on Friday and Saturday. We were able to learn more about what it takes to come to Christ as a new believer, continue to transform as a follower of Christ, and to rededicate ourselves as a believer in Christ. "Normal is not enough" is our battle cry! - Pastor Mike
Final Step
Mark 6:45-52 tells of Jesus walking on water. His disciples were afraid because they lacked the faith to believe that Jesus was the son of God, that they were chosen as his disciples, and the purpose of Jesus coming to Earth. Miracles occured 2,000 years ago and still do accure today. Have faith! Miracles happen on a daily basis.- Pastor Mike
Branches
The wind has knocked a bunch of branches off our trees (nature's way of pruning). Jesus has told us in John 15 that God is the gardener who cuts off every branch that does not bear good fruit. We must be productive followers of Christ and show others by our changed behavior (bearing fruit) how Christ has changed us from the inside out. - Pastor Mike
