First Church of the Nazarene

It seems like this year is flying by to quickly.  With the pace we have been keeping in the life of this church it is no wonder it feels so fast.  The truth is, it is not really that much different than any other year as far as pace goes.  There is children's and teen Bible quizzing, Imact rally's and in November there is the annual Soup and Sandwich Thanksgiving meal in which we not only celebrate God's blessings but collect Operation Christmas Child (OCC) boxes.  We want to hit 100 this year. As you are reading this note in this last Sunday of October we are already half way there.  That leaves us 3 more full weeks to bring in the other 50.  I believe we can exceed the 100 mark.   

OCC is significant not just because it reminds to be generous toward children as Christ was, but that it is truly an extension of the missional arm of Lenoir City First Church of the Nazarene.  Children, moms and dads, and whole communities will hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ and lives will be forever transformed.    Pray our 100+ boxes will not only bless a childs life, but be the start of a new church wherever they end up going.  

While it is true that Thanksgiving is an "American" holiday,  in the life of a follower of Jesus Christ, it is the every day natural response to our "prodigal" Savoir, who went over and above, loving in an over the top way that makes no sense, for people like us, who did nothing to deserve it.  As Christ's followers, we are called to do the same.  Part of our missional strategy scripture focus for this church year informs how we live out this call to love.  Jesus said in John 12:24-26 (NLT) 24  I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives. 25  Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity. 26  Anyone who wants to be my disciple must follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And the Father will honor anyone who serves me.

This is radical obedience to love those in our sphere of influence the same way...even those who don't deserve it.  In this month of Thanksgiving, live out your gratitude to Christ in tangible ways...be Jesus hands to those needing  hand, Jesus feet, going where Jesus is going, Jesus compassion to those who don't even deserve it, and Jesus strength to those who have no voice, who need courage.  

Pastor David