"Not a big enough job . . ."

This past Sunday we got to dive into one of my favorite mission passages in the Bible- Isaiah 49:6. Basically, God invites us to think big when it comes to His mission. He invites us to avoid the distractions and temptations that so easily prevent us from seeing His grander mission and purpose for our lives.

I even work in the church, and it's easy for me to lose focus and get caught in the day-to-day tasks of life. But I pray Sunday was an opportunity to recalibrate and realign with God's mission, and just think bigger than your own . . .

Blessings on your journey, and see you Sunday as we wrap up One.

Chene St.

This Saturday, October 20th, will be another opportunity to put our faith into action. We'll depart from the youth house at 11 am and head down to Chene St. in Detroit. Outside of Peacemakers International, we'll hold an Oktoberfest, complete with a dinner, entertainment, games for the kids, and clothes distribution. Seriously, I can't wait, it should be an awesome day. The altar areas in both venues were overflowing with new socks and underwear and winter clothes that we get to give away. God is good.

It's not to late to be a part of this. Send me an email or call the church office and let us know you'd like to come. If you can't make it, would you hold us up in prayer? Pray that we might be the hands and feet of the Lord. (And that He would provide us with some beautiful weather).

One

We are two weeks into our month-long series titled One. This year marks 125 years of ministry as St. Peter Lutheran Church, and we're focusing this month on how the message of St. Peter remains unchanged- we are one people, worshipping one Savior, sharing one common mission. And while I've missed being with you, I've heard from many of you how much you enjoyed having Pastor Kapser and Pastor Ken among us. This past week we narrowed the focus to the scandal of exclusivity, how Jesus identifies himself as THE way, THE truth, and THE life. No room for others. Tough words to say in our pluralistic culture.

What is your response to Jesus' claim of exclusivity, that He is indeed the ONLY way? Do these words bring scandal, or comfort?

Bringing Others Home

I think the clip from Planes, Trains and Automobiles was a powerful illustration of the God-planted urge within us to bring others home, home to a place of hope, security and relationship with the Lord.

But at the same time, we have to get beyond those attitudes that plague us, attitudes of resentment and haughtiness so prevalent in the older brother from Luke 15. What would it take for us to always look upon others with the eyes of our merciful father? When is it most difficult for you to look with compassion?

Next week we'll begin our new series, One. Check here later for more details . . .