Since this is my last Congregational Meeting, I would briefly like to review themes I have shared so many times before:

Invite! Invite! Invite! Continue to reach out to the community and welcome folks to join us in seeking out and serving Jesus Christ. It is our mission, our purpose. Let God’s love for others lead you. Opt for grace rather than judgment. Demonstrate true Christian hospitality.

Be mindful of the church’s financial needs. Continue to support the church. Give as God leads you to give. God has blessed us with so much. Let us find ways to give back as we support and undergird the church’s mission.

Take care of each other. Continue to pray for one another and lift each other up. Keep an eye out for those who are struggling, for those facing whatever crisis has come their way. Build relationships with one another. Ease new folks into participation and leadership roles. Respect one another.

Notice the condition of the building and grounds. Continue to help Warren Swaney, our faithful Property Chairman, in keeping up with the demands of an aging structure and with the responsibility of a huge lawn to care for. There are many renovation projects possible, so take them one at a time. Plan, prioritize, schedule. Do not let them overwhelm you. Work together.

Focus on our reason for being—Jesus! Continue to address ongoing spiritual needs. Pray. Get into the Bible and be open to learning what God wants to teach you. Remember everyone is at a different spiritual level and we all must continue to grow in both faith and service. There are many distractions, so don’t let them get in the way of your spiritual development. Seek God’s direction and will for your lives.

I know I have said it a million times lately but it bears repeating: Thank you for being such a loving and faithful congregation. I am proud of the work we have accomplished together but I know the work we do is never finished. God has more things in store for this congregation. Boldly venture forth in concert with God’s leadership. Trust. God is not finished with you yet. I look forward to hearing about the impact Bethany will have on this community and beyond for many years to come. In the words of Paul to one of the churches he served, “I thank my God for every remembrance of you.” God bless Bethany Christian Church.

~Dr. Bob