Dear Church Family,
Summer is finally here! I hope these next few months are filled with rest, family, vacations, laughter, and opportunities to make lasting memories. I know many of our church families will be traveling over the coming weeks, and I pray God gives you safe travels and a refreshing season together.
While you're away, know this—we'll miss you! Not because we want anyone to feel guilty for being gone, but because church is family. Things simply aren't the same when members of the family are absent. We love you, we care about you, and we look forward to seeing you again soon. If you've been away for any reason, our doors—and our hearts—are always open.
As we enjoy everything summer has to offer, let's also remember that our walk with Christ doesn't take a vacation. The battle for our hearts, our families, and our communities continues every day. That's why I want to encourage you to stay engaged through worship, prayer, and God's Word.
One of the greatest ways we can stay focused is by praying for our "One More." Who is the person God has placed on your heart? Maybe it's someone who doesn't know Christ, or perhaps it's someone who has drifted away from the Lord and His church. Don't stop praying. God is still changing lives.
Speaking of changed lives, we'll be scheduling another baptism service soon. If you've trusted Christ as your Savior but have never been baptized, what are you waiting for? Baptism doesn't save us, but it is the public declaration of the new life Christ has given us. We'd love to celebrate that step of obedience with you.
Even if you're traveling this summer, I encourage you to stay connected with what God is doing at Christian Congregation Church. You can worship with us through our church app, Facebook, YouTube, or our website. And if you're watching from the beach, the mountains, or somewhere along the highway, leave us a comment and let us know where you're joining from!
As our nation celebrates its 250th year, I'm reminded how thankful we should be for the freedoms God has graciously given us. Those freedoms are not merely privileges to enjoy—they are opportunities to glorify Christ.
One of the things I've enjoyed watching this summer has been the United States Men's National Team. Beyond the excitement of the matches, I've been encouraged to see players, coaches, trainers, and staff gathering together after games to pray. Several players have also been participating in Bible studies together.
I don't know each of these men personally, but I appreciate seeing people use the platform God has given them to honor Him publicly.
How are we using the platform God has given us?
Whether your audience is a stadium full of people, an office, a classroom, a neighborhood, or your own family, every Christian has been given opportunities to point others to Christ. Win or lose, success or disappointment, may our lives consistently bring Him glory.
Let's also remember that many believers around the world do not enjoy the freedoms we often take for granted. Some risk persecution simply for owning a Bible or gathering with other Christians. What a privilege it is that we can worship openly, study God's Word freely, and boldly proclaim the gospel.
God has blessed us abundantly, and as Jesus taught, "For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required" (Luke 12:48, NKJV).
As we continue our study through Romans, we'll soon encounter some important passages about our relationship to government, our responsibilities as citizens, and what it means to faithfully represent Christ in every area of life. I hope you'll stay with us as we continue this incredible journey through God's Word.
Thank you for being such an encouraging church family. I love serving alongside you, and I'm excited to see what God has in store for the months ahead.
Enjoy your summer, stay connected, keep growing in Christ, and keep praying for your "One More."
God bless,
Pastor Kevin