Photo by Adrià Crehuet Cano on Unsplash
Dear Saints of First Lutheran,
The time around a new year is a good time to reflect on the old year while awaiting the new. For many this includes looking ahead to ways we can better use the many gifts God has blessed us with it in service to Him, His church, and His creation – some call them “resolutions.” We generally know what God has given us – the problem is having the wisdom and resolve to use them as God calls us to.
This wisdom and resolve comes from God Himself; another of His gifts. When King Solomon began his reign, succeeding his father David, God asked him, “Ask what I shall give you.” Solomon didn’t ask for more power, money, influence, or anything of material value. Solomon asked for wisdom to lead God’s people in accord with God’s will (1 Kings 3:4-9). Solomon, heeding the psalmist’s words, “Oh how I love Your law! It is my meditation all the day. Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies, for it is ever with me” (Psalm 119:97-98), understood his gifts and the wisdom and resolve to us them properly comes from one place – God and His word.
Just as God’s people needed leaders in Solomon’s day, we need leaders in the church today! God has given each of us talents to be used in His church. This year, First Lutheran will be looking to fill many leadership positions on the Board of Directors (Chair and Executive Secretary), Mission Board (Worship Chair, Humancare Chair, and Fellowship Chair). We are also looking for people to serve as Ushers, Altar Guild members, Bible Study facilitators, and elsewhere. God has indeed given you the gifts to serve in these roles. I urge you to resolve to seek His wisdom – listen to His calling – and have the courage to step out in faith to use your gifts in His church.
I look forward to a new year, 2022, filled with God’s grace and mercy as we join together with all our gifts to serve Him, His church, and His creation.
Happy New Year!
Pastor Jim