Hello Village Family and Friends!
2020 has been an unprecedented year of hardship and struggle, and for some, it only seems to be getting more difficult with each week that passes. As Christians, we have hope beyond our momentary troubles and affliction because of our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ! As we learned in Titus last Sunday, the grace of God has appeared bringing salvation for all people, training us to live godly lives in this present age, "waiting for the blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ" (Titus 2:13). This gives us great hope amidst these difficult and trying times.
This doesn't mean we have it all figured out, that everything is alright, or that we don't face hardship. In fact, we are told we will face many trials in this life (John 16:33, 1 Peter 4:12, James 1:2-3. Being aware that this year has been especially challenging for some in our church family, many have stepped up to help those who may need it. This is one of the great values of belonging to the body of Christ in this life! This is why we give financially. This is also how we share in carrying one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2). If you find yourself struggling during this season and are in need of help in any way, please reach out and let us know.
On the other hand, perhaps you don't find yourself struggling during this season. Perhaps the Lord has you in a position to of help those who are? I would encourage you to be praying about and looking for ways that you can help your brothers and sisters in Christ. Maybe it's a run to the grocery store, or picking up a prescription. Maybe it's shoveling a sidewalk, plowing a driveway, or delivering firewood.
We must keep in mind that at the core of the gospel message is our desperate need for help and the loving, giving, merciful action of the only One who could help! This same Savior Lord calls us to love others as ourselves (Mark 12:31) and to freely give having freely received (Matthew 10:8). May our love, our giving, and our help, be a mirror of Christ's love to us, as well as a demonstration of the power of God unto salvation (Romans 1:16)! I hope to see you this Sunday as we worship the Lord together!
Grace & Peace,
John
(You can reach Pastor John at jwhite@thevillagemi.com)