Can you believe that June 2023 is already here? The year is almost half over. More importantly, what are each of us going to do with the second half, if God provides the time? It’s something to think about.
Consider 2018-2023. Five years. Back in December 2018, the eldership published three goals in the church bulletin. These goals were:
1) Continue to make strong, solid Christians (Eph. 4:11-14)
2) Continue to make Lehman Avenue a strong, solid Church (Heb. 13: 17)
3) Strive to help you, your family, and your friends go to heaven (I Tim. 2:3-4)
Are these goals being achieved? Thankfully, we believe we can answer “yes” for all three! Are you a stronger Christian? We are thankful that many of you obviously are stronger. The Word of God has the power to get this done. (Heb. 4:12) We believe our members are more “in-the-Word” than ever, which is wonderful.
Is Lehman Ave. a stronger congregation? Yes, bound up in five words… Members, Teachers, Deacons, Preachers and Elders. We are so thankful that there is excellence every time these people act in God’s service. God has blessed our membership with a desire to mature in the Word and be more involved. God has blessed us with unity of spirit and purpose. God has blessed us with love toward each other and toward all of those outside who are seeking to find the Truth.
Are we striving to help each other go to Heaven? We certainly believe so and we are thankful for this. By following the biblical model that God designed the church, where Jesus is our Savior and King, we should expect to help each other go to Heaven. Men cannot improve upon Jesus’ version of Christianity, after all. Continuing to follow biblical authority is what God wants and expects. We all desire to follow His commands, to have a bold faith, and to offer Jesus’ gift of salvation to our community. In being known for our love for each other, we are also more open, graceful and compassionate.
We do not say these things to boast, though we are proud of each of you. We say them to acknowledge that God is working through and blessing this congregation as we try to do His Will, please Him more, and give Him all of the glory.
2018-2023. It has been a great (almost) five years. Let’s all keep pulling together in love and unity. Isaiah 40:31 – But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
June came quickly. What about the second half of 2023? Remember to keep God in your plans.
On another note, and in closing, your elders have an important comment about Sunday, June 4, 2023. We are moving in a great direction, thanks to God Almighty. However, Lehman Avenue may never see another man that so embodies the term “elder” in such a complete and balanced way as Bobby Gilbert, who resigned on June 4. His presence in the eldership will be missed. Yet, we know Bobby will continue to be a great asset and friend to this congregation and to each of us individually. Bobby, we wish for you a bright and happy future. We are very thankful for you.
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