Many congregations, as
well as their members, have a desire to fulfill the Great Commission of spreading the Gospel. Unfortunately, all too often,
people take the attitude that someone else will do the work. They believe that as long as they vocally support the efforts
of another person; they are doing God’s will. I would ask you to consider your work in this call of the Great
Commission. Being a part of it in a physical way is what Jesus is calling us to do. Standing aside and letting others do the
work is not taking up the call. For us here at Peace Lutheran taking up this call and spreading the Good News must become
the main objective and priority. It must be as much a part of our lives as coming to church, praying, and all our other religious
functions.
As members of the body
of Christ, we have the privilege to proclaim Jesus Christ crucified and risen from the dead. By faith we are able to confess
Him as Lord and Savior and this is not something that should be taken for granted.
As children of the heavenly
Father we are asked to proclaim Him and confess Him until He comes again. A task, which for many becomes difficult and stressful.
Stepping out of your comfort zone is not something that we are all willing to do. It is much easier on a cold winter day to
stay wrapped up in a warm blanket, rather than going outside and shoveling off the sidewalk. That is where our faith really
comes into practice. For many people, they cannot see that confessing Jesus to others is really a matter of faith, more so,
than an action of obedience. To confess your faith is a reaction to the joy of believing.
Many people see silent
confession as the best way and means to accomplishing the goal. Being bold like Paul, Stephen, Peter and all of the apostles
and prophets is the call for us...His children. Remembering the story of David
and Goliath reminds us that a strong faith can accomplish anything that is God pleasing. Become His vessels and instruments
are what He asks and demands. For us, God’s children, living our faith
is empowering and motivates us to live our faith. We hear the words of St. James when he states, “Faith without our
works is a dead faith”. Simply said, a faith that is not in a life of service
and care for others is not a faith at all. Together we can accomplish these calls from God to serve and care for our neighbor
and friends. We His children glorify Him and praise Him for his wonderful acts. Rejoice and be glad He is our Savior.
Rev.
Jamison J. Hardy
Pastor Peace Lutheran Church
107
Carol Dr.
McMurray, PA 15317
Cell 724-413-8511
Office 724-941-9441
PastorHardy72@Yahoo.com