February 2008 Letter from the Pastor

In the May 28, 1998, edition of USA Today, the following appeared among the letters to the editor: Will somebody help me save my son? My son is two years old and is a reflection of complete innocence. His vulnerability to this harsh, violent, ignorant and uncaring world just rips my heart apart. He knows nothing of the killing within the schools that are supposed to prepare my children for the world. He knows nothing of the abuse that happens within the homes of children his age. As he plays with his toys, he is oblivious to the tragedies that occur every day across the country. And as he clutches his blanket, sleeping soundly, dreaming of the mommy and daddy who love him, he has no idea of the complete moral decay of our country. Does anyone care anymore? Will someone please, please help me save my son?

In I John 2:15-17 we learn about why there is a need for such help. John wrote, “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world - the cravings of sinful man, the lust of the eyes and the boasting of what he has and does - comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.”

The father who wrote to USA Today seemed to know what the world had to offer. He longed for something better for his young son.

The Apostle Paul wrote to believers in Colosse about a worldly influence. He warned them with these words from 2:8, “See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.”

Paul’s efforts of admonishment were combined with his sacrifices and struggles on their behalf. He considered it all worthwhile that he ‘may present everyone perfect in Christ.’ He wanted them to know how much he was struggling for them. His purpose was that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love. Although Paul was not with them, his delight was to see how orderly they were and how firm their faith in Christ was.

Listen to his tremendous expression of concern from 2:6-7. “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” The concerned father would have appreciated someone like Paul caring for his son.

Are you concerned with the spiritual lives of others? Adult Sunday School classes and sermons in February will address spiritual leadership. We need to take the initiative and care for others in this way.

Please pray about your heart for others. Spend time in God’s word alone and with your family. Come to Sunday School and participate in learning from the assigned text for the week. Worship God and learn more from His word.

God may be preparing you to make great strides as a spiritual leader. Are you willing to sacrifice, struggle, and care? Be the spiritual leader that your friends, your family, and a dying world is calling out for.

Pastor Lerud