Good morning,
We are living in a world where Christians “deconstruct” or “forsake” their faith altogether. Abstinence from media outlets and nightly news falls short of protecting us from conversations around the troubling world in which we live. How can we live out authentic faith in a world where Christians and non-Christians seek Hope amid uncertainty? Hebrews 10:23 says, “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.”
Our troubled world forces us to process the emotions resulting from the tragedies of multiple mass shootings in our schools, homes, stores, hospitals, and the ongoing war in Ukraine. We are left to wonder, “If God is in control, then why am I facing this struggle – we tend to forget that struggles are a significant part of the Christian life. Many will claim to have faith, but when they face some struggle, they turn from God, showing that their faith is not genuine.
Christians are never at the hand of fate or chance - we have an opportunity each day to glorify God in how we respond to your struggles. As believers, we live differently from the unbelieving world around us. Survival mode for the weary Christian is not hibernation from Christ but perseverance in Christ. We can’t survive disconnected from him.
When your reserves feel empty, when your patience is thin - Jesus gives us a pattern to emulate, but He also tells us the best way to rest when we are weary in body and soul. Christ is at work in you as you persevere during these challenging days of busyness. We find rest in seeking the Lord in prayer - as we anticipate further dramatic triumphs of the Christian mission.
Continued financial contributions to support the work of the church are appreciated. Please continue to mail your checks to Payne Chapel A.M.E Church, 2701 Lee St, Houston, Texas 77026, or use Givelify.com on the church website.
Finally, I would like to leave you with this thought for meditation; "It's important to believe in yourself and the beauty of your dreams and to not let anyone tell you different." — Victoria Arlen.
Blessings,
Pastor Kevin L. Bullock, Sr.