April 17, 2016

Today we continue the series “Breaking Barriers through the Power of the Holy Spirit.”  This series is based on the book of Acts.  Acts is the book of the New Testament that immediately follows the four gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.  It is written in excellent Greek by the Gospel writer, Luke.  Acts is the history of the early church and shows how the Holy Spirit gave life and direction to the Christian Church and how it expanded from a small group of believers to about 2 billion believers today.

One of the most important verses of the bible is Acts 2:42.  It reads:  “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. “  We will look at this verse in depth on May 22.  Until then, I recommend that you read the book of Acts and prayerfully ask that same Spirit to enliven our lives and lead us forward.  We can do amazing things through the power of God’s Spirit!

There are many ways to devote ourselves “to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. “  The announcements today list many such opportunities.  There are new Bible studies going on many days of the week, habitat Builds where we reach out in fellowship and concrete assistance of others, choir practices where scripture is sung and the teachings of the church ring true, fellowship meals such as the Pot Luck this Wednesday at 5:30 to gather in fellowship, and soon there will be a three day prayer vigil (May 12-15) which leads to Pentecost, the day we celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit.  I hope each of us engages in at least two activities of choice outside of worship for personal enrichment.  As we grow, the life of our church body will be much richer as well.

Today, we will receive new members at the conclusion of our services of worship.  I look forward to getting to know those God sends to Eastminster!  This is a very exciting place to be as God calls others to worship, grow and serve here.  Welcome!

Next week the children will present their musical, “Legends of Camp Garner Creek.”  They are having excellent practices under the direction of Mrs. June Leech and have a real message to share.  Pray for them as they add “life to our body” as well.

One of the roles of a pastor is to pray for and counsel members.  Know that I am up for a visit and a cup of coffee as any have desire.  May God work with and through us to “Break Barriers by the Power of the Holy Spirit.”

 Blessings,

Tim