This Sunday I will be preaching in view of a call to be pastor of Ocean Park Baptist Church in Jacksonville Beach. Cami has already written about the process that has brought me to this point. I am still amazed that this is happening and I praise God for this opportunity. I will be preaching from Ephesians 2:1-10.
This text pretty much jumped out at me as I began praying for what to preach. Many of you know that Ephesians is my favorite letter of Paul. This particular text is one of my favorite passages in the Bible. Here Paul reminds us that we were dead in our sins and totally unable to do anything about it - we were depraved, disobedient, and doomed to face the wrath of a holy God. Then verse four begins with the most beautiful two words ever, "But God!" Those two words changed everything. It was His great love, mercy, and grace that poured on me even when I was dead and raised me up to new life in Christ! I did nothing to earn or bring about my salvation - It was all the work of my loving God through the blood of His dear Son, Jesus Christ.
Many may wonder, "Why not keep teaching school?" After all I do make a difference. The reason is simple - God has called me to preach the message of His grace. This is my passion.
I ask you to pray as I preach on Sunday. I don't want to preach in order to impress or secure a job. I desire to preach in order to give God honor and glory through the sharing of His Word. The church will vote on May 10 - Please pray for clarity and peace as we and the church make this important decision.
On the Path,
Russell
1 comment:
How exciting! I will be praying for you and this very important decision for your family. God is so faithful to bring about everything in our life that we need (and some extra special blessings along the way!).
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