by Phil Wallin
MONROE, MI – There has been so much discussion about the current atmosphere of our society and the negative perception it creates in our hearts, not only as believers but leaders of the church. As I write this to you, there are several difficulties that enter my mind. The 20-year anniversary of 9/11, nearly two years of COVID-19, the conclusion of the war in Afghanistan, and growing anger and intolerance in America. However, I want to encourage you to keep your eyes on the prize. Jesus has not changed, He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He is in control of all things, and our job is to continue to serve His plan and purpose for our lives.
The words of Jesus from the Gospel of John 4:35 come to mind, “Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest.” It is important whenever we face difficulties that we focus on the priority.
God’s priority for us is found in the great commission and the great command. We are to go into all the world and make disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey all that Christ has commanded us. Also, we are to love the Lord with all our heart and love our neighbors as ourselves. In these two passages, the purpose and mission of the church are summed up and must be our priority as believers/ leaders of the church.
One of the things we have done at Faith Baptist Church during the ever-changing church environment, is develop an Outreach Team. We are a team of leaders and lay members with a goal of having an impact on our community. The team has eight members however, everyone is invited to participate because I believe involvement is investment. We meet once a month to brainstorm, establish quarterly outreach events, and work out logistics.
Our summer events were a huge success ranging from ideas such as: collecting backpack supplies for the homeless, a motorcycle rally for crisis pregnancies and a barbecue for first responders. I am excited because there is a growing enthusiasm among our church for doing little things that have a big impact.
I am not suggesting that everyone should do what Faith Baptist Church is doing. What I am suggesting is that we all focus on what Christ has called us to do. Instead of becoming overwhelmed by the minutiae of the world let's become overwhelmed by this amazing God we serve. Let’s fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, and not grow weary by what is taking place around us. Let’s stand as brothers and sisters in Christ and work together, not allowing little things to divide us and keep our eyes on the priority.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Phil Wallin is the lead Pastor of Faith Baptist Church in Monroe. He has served in several roles on the local church level; Director of Missions, Deacon, Men’s Ministry leader, Church Planter and Associate Pastor.