Nothing Stops God’s Work

The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name of Jesus. Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah.
-Acts 5:41-42

Nothing could stop the work of God through the disciples. They were arrested, beaten, and commanded to stop preaching, healing, and teaching in the name of Jesus. But they could not stop. “Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah.”

Even when we take a break, or a vacation, or retire from a ministry, the work of God doesn’t stop. God’s purposes are fulfilled; through our efforts, as well as through the efforts and lives of others. That is the truly beautiful thing about being the Body of Christ. Sometimes a part of the body needs to rest and another part steps in to fill the gap.

This Sunday begins my Study Leave and vacation trip. I had planned to take a Sabbatical this summer, but delayed those plans until next summer, 2023, because of staffing shortages and ministry needs in the church. I had planned a trip this summer, which the Session has graciously agreed to allow. I know that even while I am away, God’s work continues here. God’s people never stop proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah even while the Senior Pastor is away. Please pray for me and my family as we make our way driving through Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, California, Oregon and back home to Washington!

While I am away, Bob Merriman and Bob Schmitt will provide pulpit supply on Sundays. Bob Merriman will also be leading congregational care. Please keep them in your prayers. If you have a need, please reach out to your Deacons and Elders. You truly are the heart and hands of Jesus Christ to one another. As we celebrate Father’s Day this Sunday, keep the men of the church and our community in your prayers. The task of fathering well is a lifelong gift and never an easy task. May we know the love of God our Father this day and every day.

God our Father, we give you thanks and praise for fathers young and old. We pray for young fathers, newly embracing their vocation; may they find courage and perseverance to balance work, family and faith in joy and sacrifice. We pray for fathers around the world whose children are lost or suffering; may they know that the God of compassion walks with them in their sorrow. We pray for men who are not fathers but still mentor and guide us with fatherly love and advice. We remember fathers, grandfathers, and great grandfathers who are no longer with us but who live forever in our memory and nourish us with their love. Amen