Our churches

Jesus refers to the church as His bride which underlines how important the church is to Him. Still, the church can be a source of problems for many seekers and believers alike. After all, the church is a collection of imperfect people who are, by nature, prone to impure motives. You may have seen some of the problems that can be found out in the world in your own church: financial troubles, hypocrisy, gossip, clicks, pride, greed, lust, selfishness, etc., etc., etc… I recently heard a sermon where the pastor was sharing how he once heard a cynic compare the church to Noah's Ark. The cynic's comparison was that the storm on the outside is what makes bearable the stench on the inside. This may be a bit harsh but you get the point.

Picking out a couple specifics that we are praying for:
1. The church leadership - that they are full of the spirit, growing in the Lord, and seeking His will as they guide the church's path.
2. The congregation - That God is at the center as they attend, serve, give, fellowship, and worship. That they are also seeking His will and growing in Him. And most importantly, that they are understanding that not only is the church there for them, but they need to be there for the church.

Have a great week and a great fast.
Your brother,
Bob