It is always good to end the year in the black. As of Wednesday evening’s budget team meeting Calvary Baptist Church is in the black. What a blessing in these trying economic times. I think there are a few reasons why we are prospering so well when the country as a whole is heading the other way.
First, God honors those who honor Him. He is not a respecter of persons, but He does reward those who diligently seek him. God tells us that if we sow we will reap according to the measure we give. I believe that a body who is spiritually healthy, never wants for funds. I am a believer in the old adage which says that ‘the proof is in the pudding’. The fact that we as a church are placing God first is showing forth in the fruit of our actions. And you know what James says, Faith and actions go together. People who are right with God give to God in an act of worship.
Second, anything that is alive is growing and we have been growing steadily. There was a period of time this year where we had additions by baptism, letter and statement of Faith for eight weeks straight. Many of those Sundays there were more than one family joining. One Sunday morning we did not have enough help to take care of all the families at one time. That shows a great move of the Spirit of God. Due to the increase in members we are experiencing the natural results of that. More funds being given. Praise God!
Thirdly, where the Spirit of the Lord is there is unity. Oh, we may not all see eye to eye on every little thing all the time, but there is a love in this church among the brothers. They even love their pastor and his wife here. Imagine that, a congregation who prays for their pastor and refuses to nit pick him apart. Believe me you, I give them enough material to do just that if they were a mind to.
I speak the truth to you who read this. I think 2010 will be a record year for Calvary Baptist Church. Not because we are perfect, or because our programs are superior, or because the pastor is someone special. No it is because there is love in the hearts of the congregation. Pure love for God and a willingness to overlook one another’s faults so they can join in worship to the king. After the first budget meeting was over I made the comment that “this is my favorite team to be on ” The reason I stated that was due to the fact we laughed the whole time and had a great time. One of the brothers who has been on the team for some years stated things use to be different. “We would almost be shouting at each other by the time it was over” he said. Well the difference is that God’s love was shining through. A new person on the team and who is relatively new to the church told me that she felt God’s presence through the whole process. It blessed my heart to hear that statement.
My prayer as pastor is that we can remain focused on whatsoever things are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable in each other’s lives. That we forget the past and press onto the higher call in Christ. If we do, then truly “the God of peace will be with you” (us). Pastor Steve