10.10.2023 PBPC Family Bulletin
PBPC Family,
On Sunday, we will announce and provide Commitment Cards for Commitment Sunday on October 29. This is an opportunity for us to celebrate our God who is unconditionally committed to us by the power of the Spirit through Jesus Christ our Lord. In joyful response to God's commitment, we will make commitments of service and our finances.
When you stop and think about it, it is a bit strange that we make commitments for 2024. We don't know what the future will hold. We may have grand hopes that we can serve in the children's ministry, tutor a kid at Harbor House, or give away groceries at our monthly pantry. And without warning, our hopes can be dashed with a life changing diagnosis, loss of a loved one, or family crisis. We may plan to give a certain financial amount and without warning, lose our job and income. It may seem a bit reckless to make commitments like these.
When we make these commitments, they are not binding. They are intentions, hopes of what we'd like to do in the coming year. And even these commitments are a reminder that our lives are sustained by God's grace. The talents we use in serving are gifts from God. Our money, down to the last penny, is a gift from God. Our future, whatever it holds, is held and known by God. We live by faith and are sustained by grace.
Our Commitment Sunday, at face value, seems like it's about us - what WE will do or give for next year. But really, it's not about us. It's about God. It's always about God. Between now and October 29, I invite you to prayerfully consider - what commitments is God inviting me to make in 2024? And in worship on October 29, we will take all these commitments and give them back to their source - our loving, caring, and committed God.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Calvin
Exodus 20:12
Pastor Chris Coon