I was just looking at Trinity’s Facebook page and thinking we need to change the cover photo. This picture says a lot about Trinity. The 1st thing I notice is the lack of young people. This is exaggerated by the fact that none of our children are in the picture. The second thing I noticed was how many of the people in the picture have moved away or gone to be with our Lord. Over half the people in the picture are no longer with us on Sunday mornings. So it is fitting that as we celebrate All Saints Day we remember those who through their faith shaped our lives and our church. But it also made me realize something. This picture from 3 ½ years ago captures a moment as the people of faith at Trinity, Dothan, shared each other’s lives and we thank God for the gift of that moment.
Although I am saddened by the loss of half of those in the picture, I cannot help but also be encouraged. Our attendance now is not smaller in fact it may even be a slight bit larger. We continue to operate in the black financially. We still make an impact in our community, and again I have to say even though we feel discouraged by our losses God is faithful and we are still a spiritually healthy church.
World wide we are entering the 500th year of proclaiming God’s grace as the Lutheran Church. That is evidence of God’s Grace. The Eternal Gospel is still changing lives. That Gospel in our mouths and actions still molds and shapes people healing and equipping them to continue reaching out to others.
So as we look back at those who have been a blessing to us in years past, let’s also look forward to how we can be a blessing to others. Let’s “Be strong and courageous!” because the Eternal Gospel in our mouths is Strong and Courageous. “Let the Redeemed of the Lord say so!” Let’s join those who have gone before us and share the love of Jesus.
Although I am saddened by the loss of half of those in the picture, I cannot help but also be encouraged. Our attendance now is not smaller in fact it may even be a slight bit larger. We continue to operate in the black financially. We still make an impact in our community, and again I have to say even though we feel discouraged by our losses God is faithful and we are still a spiritually healthy church.
World wide we are entering the 500th year of proclaiming God’s grace as the Lutheran Church. That is evidence of God’s Grace. The Eternal Gospel is still changing lives. That Gospel in our mouths and actions still molds and shapes people healing and equipping them to continue reaching out to others.
So as we look back at those who have been a blessing to us in years past, let’s also look forward to how we can be a blessing to others. Let’s “Be strong and courageous!” because the Eternal Gospel in our mouths is Strong and Courageous. “Let the Redeemed of the Lord say so!” Let’s join those who have gone before us and share the love of Jesus.
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