Gathering of the Faithful

Last week I wrote about how we, as a Christian nation, need to take back our rights to freedom of speech, our freedom to gather and our right to have a say in the matters of our community. We are silent because we have been told that we offend yet the message we are bringing is one of peace and love towards all mankind regardless of their race, religion or creed. Granted, not all faith gatherings are focused on this but the Message, God’s own command, love God with all you are and love your neighbour as yourself is being preached in the majority of His faith gatherings and yet we are told to be silent.

Jesus came to fulfill the prophecy that the Saviour would come and He would be the Prince of Peace. Yes, though the ages that has not always been the case but the message is clear; be a merciful nation. So why silence the Message? Is there a fear that people might actually believe that there can be a peace in the community or even in the world? My question is this; if someone off the street were to walk into a church and find it to be full of people with hurts and fears just like everyone else and come to realize there is no condemnation or segregation in the gathering body but rather acceptance of the hurting and compassion for their needs, would this be a place of comfort and strength? If this body of believers loved on the person and provided them with help for their emotional, physical and spiritual needs, would this not be a fabulous message to spread throughout the community? So why demand silence?

Oh nation of believers in our Saviour Jesus Christ, call upon the power of the Spirit that is God to stand up and stand strong. Do not let the world push us out of the way while it promotes the ways of the world but rather ask the question “where is our voice?” We have a right to be heard and seen and not just when it is convenient. We pour millions into compassionate endeavours around the world both financially and in volunteer work but can’t put up a manger scene on the grounds of city hall at Christmas. The reason for the season is the Prince of Peace is born and His message is powerful – love the world even when they persecute you, love on them as He loves on you. Where is the evil in that message?

This Sunday we are at Camp Harmattan for our service but we will have a devotional online for those unable to get to the camp.

Peace be with you all.

Pastor Todd