Daniel’s Den
June 6, 2014
And Peter said to them, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself." And with many other words he bore witness and continued to exhort them, saying, "Save yourselves from this crooked generation." So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls. And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. Acts 2:38-42
We celebrated the Ascension of our Lord this past week and now we move to the celebration of Pentecost! May God grant each of you a joyous Pentecost day and season! The gift and power of the Holy Spirit moves our lives and moves the church in its mission! While summer is a “slow down” season in some ways, it is also a great planting, cultivating and growing season!
Our summer ministries include camps, VBS, welcoming newcomers to the community, vacations for renewal and recharging, recreation! Our part of the country has many wonderful days to be outside. Having grown up of the farm I knew well the saying, “Make hay while the sun shines”. As a pastor I found summer calling to be a joy and pretty convenient! People are outside – doing yard work, going for a walk, sitting on the porch, running through sprinklers, picnicking, etc.
They are often relaxed and quite welcoming – even to surprise visitors! While driving around the neighborhood is great you might try walking. A wave or pause as you walk along can provide an opportunity to stop or a visit. Members are almost always welcoming for a friends visit and people we do not know might be happy to engage in a discussion of the weather that may lead to a discussion of the “Weather-Maker” and after a while even this comment: “If you would like to visit our church this Sunday, we would be glad to pick you up or met you there.” Imagine if the whole congregation had this thought in their mind and heart!
It’s worth considering! The weather can be beautiful in the summer, but your Savior is always beautiful and always worth sharing! Blessed PENTECOST!
TRIP NOTE:
On another note, please keep me in your prayers! I will be spending the next few weeks teaching in Ethiopia. I will be joining Dr. Schulz and Dr. Ahlersmeyer as we consider and study the means of grace with pastors and seminary people in Addis. May our witness be clear and strong with these church leaders gathered for study! So, during this first half of June our district staff and especially first VP Roger Rhode will be covering for me.
In Christ, Dan
May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."