If God allows us to see Saturday, August 8 we anticipate hundreds of attendees at our 7th Annual Community Fair. This event, which was birthed in the Women of All Seasons Class, brings us into contact with more people who need Jesus than years worth of gospel meetings would. It is important for us to remember why we host the community fair, or for that matter have any ministries that touch the community. The goal is not to just give away clothes, school supplies, and expose attendees to social service agencies. Ministry is always about meeting people at their felt need and leading them to their ultimate need for Christ and salvation. The church must never forget her mission: to make and develop followers for Christ. As final preparations are made for the Community Fair, we encourage you to do the following:
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Sunday, July 19 is Mission Sunday. Each member is asked to give $19.28 to support the advancement of the gospel beyond our borders. In 1928, what is now known as the Marsalis Avenue Church of Christ was established. The $19.28 is a reminder of our history. In October of 2008, in celebration of the congregation’s 80th Anniversary, we held our first Mission Sunday. The idea of supporting the work of the Lord outside of the geographic region of the local congregation is almost as old as the New Testament church (1 Corinthians 16:1-3, 2 Corinthians 8-9). Additionally Mission Sunday is a demonstration of our commitment to the Great Commission. Our mission is to make and develop followers for Christ. We believe that all people should be believers in Christ, that all believers should become disciples of Christ, and that all disciples of Christ should make disciples for Christ. Our concern should be that those who do not know Christ come to believe in Him and obey the gospel. There are lost people across our borders and across the street. Both need Jesus. Both need us to carry the message of the cross. Reflect on these questions:
Each summer families travel to destinations near and far for vacations and family reunions. People save for months so that they can take a vacation. State and local economies depend on the tourism dollars that travelers will spend within their borders. Planning, resources, time, and energy go into making a vacation memorable. Whether it lasts for a weekend or a week, at some point vacation will end and it will be back to reality. Children will have memories and may enjoy telling others about their adventures. You may have stories to tell, but at the end of the day memories, stories, and maybe a t-shirt are all you have to show for the 3 days here or 7 nights there. Do we put as much time into preparing for our eternal rest as we do planning for a few days of fun in the sun? Will our children have a faith to hold on to that will accompany their pictures with Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy? Nurture your spirit. When you are sharing stories and making memories, share the story of the gospel and remember Jesus. As you travel, don’t leave home without the Lord in your heart.
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