November 2004
I know what it is to be in need,
and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being
content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether
living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives
me strength.
Philippians 4:12-13
Dear All Saints’ Family,
Someone nicely defined the difference between prosperity , recession ,
and depression. During prosperity you are annoyed that the dog and cat
won’t eat the expensive canned food you bought for them. In recession
you are thankful they do not eat the expensive food and hope they stay
finicky until things get better. In a depression you begin to look
thoughtfully at the cat and dog.
There is a good deal of speculation over where we are at All Saints’ at
this time. Much has been said lately about stewardship and our ability
to continue in our mission and ministry in these lean times, and there
are times when I look thoughtfully at the cat and dog. We have
experienced what it is to have plenty over the years, and we know what
it is to be in need.
Paul learned a very vital lesson over his years of service for the Lord.
He learned to be content. His contentment did not come from his
circumstances, but from his deep abiding relationship and trust in the
Lord, Jesus Christ. We always must remember that this is God’s Church
and Jesus is the head. His promise of faithfulness and provision is
written in stone, and we will obtain fulfillment, strength, and peace if
we cling to Him. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
If we are obedient to God’s voice in all that we do, both individually
and as a congregation, we will prosper because God is true to his Word.
Remember, without you there would be no church and no ministry. We have
much to be thankful for at All Saints’ and yet God’s work is never done.
The Lord is calling each one of us into a deeper relationship with Him
and He is calling us to do more to reach out to those around us. I am
excited to see what the future holds because I know without a shadow of
a doubt that All things are possible through Christ who strengthens us.
Faithfully,
Fr. David
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