worship preview

Dear Saints: From what I understand, a vast majority of scientists have concluded that human activity is raising the temperature of our planet, creating profound climate change. Many of these scientists, along with others concerned about the environment have issued dire warnings about what will happen if we don't stem this trend. Floods, famines, and the extinction of many species tops the list of worst case climate change scenarios. While climate change in our biosphere is certainly worthy of our attention and response, the Scriptures make clear that profound changes can and do take place in our spiritual climate as well. The apostle Paul was well acquainted with the nature of spiritual climate change and he addresses this issue near the end of his life. While sitting in a prison cell, Paul wrote a letter of pastoral guidance and encouragement to one of his proteges, a young man named Timothy. Near the end of the letter, Paul tells Timothy to "be prepared in season and out of season." As Paul wrote these words, he was noticing the changing response of the culture to the gospel. A growing cultural antagonism was developing toward the faith and Paul wants Timothy to be aware of this and to take this reality into account as he carries out his work as a spiritual leader. This Sunday we will reflect on what season we find ourselves in as American Christians. Have we sensed a climate change in regards to the attitude of culture to our faith? Do we find ourselves as followers of Jesus living in season or out of season? How does answering that question help us to be prepared to carry out the call we've been given? To prepare for worship I would encourage you to read the following passage from II Timothy 4:1-5 1In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: 2Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. 3For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. 5But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry. Join me in reflecting on the challenge we face as people of faith to carry out the duties of our Christian life and ministry. My hope is that we will be encouraged, renewed, and challenged to embrace the the opportunities we've been given. In Christ, Bryan