Good Morning GrowPoint,
The cursor flashed on my screen for a good hour as I waited for God to direct my words for this email. I’ve been reading news updates regarding the tragedy in Minneapolis, along with viewing the aftermath that has occurred over the weekend. Every aspect of these events is heart-wrenching as the depth of humanity’s brokenness and pain continues to be revealed.
GrowPoint, what are we called to? What is our part in the face of these realities? We will continue to be a community compelled by grace to grow. We will continue to speak the truth in love so that we will grow IN EVERY WAY into Jesus. We will also be serious and disciplined for prayer. We will maintain an intense love for EVERYONE. We will be generous and gracious with everyone. We will serve everyone through our God-given gifts. (Ephesians 4:15; 2 Peter 4:1-11)
I believe 2 Chronicles 7:14 provides a framework for us where God says, “When My people who are called by My name humble themselves, pray and seek My face, and turn from their evil ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land.”
This verse calls us to action in four specific ways: Humble ourselves. Pray. Seek His face. Turn from evil.
God will respond.
God will listen from heaven.
God will forgive sin.
God will heal our land.
GrowPoint, we are God’s messengers of hope and peace. We are charged in Micah 6:8: “He has shown you, humankind, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
GrowPoint, God has committed to us the ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:17-21). We are unifiers. We are bridge-builders. We are ambassadors of God’s love.
All of these verses serve as God’s prescription for our life, character and action. Though we are not together physically, we are calling us to unite as a community and pray. As your pastors, we want to encourage you to call someone today for the purpose of praying together. Don’t simply pray alone.
Pray for justice.
Pray for families of victims.
Pray for our nation.
Pray for our neighbors.
Pray for unity.
Pray for healing.
Pray for peace.
Pray.
God Bless each of you!
Pastors Josh & Sumer