As many of you know I love to golf. It’s my hobby and
great outdoor joy. Five years ago I
decided to set a couple of goals: improve my golf score and play a round of
golf once each week. In order to
accomplish these goals I started going to the golf range to hit balls and to
the practice green to work on my putting.
Practice has helped me to improve my game and enjoy the game more than
ever.
When it comes to our life of following Christ as a
disciple, are we setting goals for improving our life of worship and
service? If so, what are your
goals? If not, what goals do you wish
you were pursuing?
Yes, the gospel is what God has done for us by sending
Jesus to die and be raised for us. God
gives to us, loves us, forgives us, and empowers us with the Holy Spirit. In response
to what God has done, discipleship is what we do in response to the good news
of Jesus.
In what ways do you want to improve the depth and
commitment of your discipleship? What practices will you engage in in order to
improve? Perhaps it may be a new or
renewed commitment to worship weekly. Note: worship patterns have changed
dramatically in recent years with the explosion of youth games and tournaments
along with races, competitions, and fundraisers. Or, maybe you are ready to
begin giving a regular financial offering as expression of your trust in God
and engagement with Cross Lutheran’s mission.
Or, maybe you are ready to volunteer in church, school or community to
make a difference.
The rewards of practicing your faith are numerous. You
will be filled with more joy, hope, and strength for the week when you
worship. You will grow in your awareness
of God’s blessings for you and providing for you. You will make a difference in
the lives of those in need.
It’s time to come up with a plan to respond to the
gospel. God is with you in this and will
provide you with the strength and commitment to accomplish it.
In Christ’s service,
-Pastor Durk Peterson
