Pastor Beth holds her new grandson Teddy!
There are few things in life more difficult, and at once more joyful, than the birth of a child. When the struggle of labor gives way to the first little cry, when you first hold that swaddled child, there is no joy like it. Some of you may not know that we are in the midst of a baby boom here at Rock Church. We’ve had two babies born into our church family in the past few weeks and two more coming in the next few weeks. How exciting!
So yes, new life is one of the greatest sources of joy in our world. But new life is not limited to physical birth. There is also a new life that comes from spiritual rebirth. When a person welcomes Jesus into their heart, the apostle Paul tells us that they are born anew! There is new life in Christ. I also find this to be one of the greatest sources of joy in this lifetime. Of course there is joy for the person who has experienced the forgiveness of sin and this new life in Christ, but there is also joy for the one who shares.
This work, the labor, the investment of time, energy and love that we often pour into a person to help them come to know Jesus can be significant. But when the uncertainty and resistance gives way to openness and acceptance, there is a joy that is beyond measure. When that friend, family member, neighbor or coworker opens their heart to receive Jesus, all the effort pales by comparison to the joy of that moment.
I am excited beyond words about the new babies being born into our church family. I am equally excited about all those who are finding new life in Christ within our church body. And I'm grateful for every one of you who help to share the hope of Christ with all those around us. Remember, everyone needs Jesus. In all seasons and at all times, may it always be said of Rock Church that we are a place of new life.
I look forward to us all being together this Sunday as we continue our series Go Big! Together we will talk about what it means to live a life of impact and significance.
God Bless,
Pastor Steve