If you did not hear my State of the Church message January 10, I hope you will go to our website or get a CD and listen to it. The response has been exciting and extremely positive. I shared with the church the Greater Things Vision from John 14:12-17. Jesus said in verse 12, “I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these because I am going to the Father.” Yes, he said we will do even greater things than he did, but he is not referring to quality. No one can do anything better than Jesus did. He is referring to scope and quantity. We have the availability of travel, technology, financial resources, communication, etc., but most of all, we have the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus was limited by time and space, but the Holy Spirit is not. I believe God has revealed to me three “greater “things” he wants us to pursue over the next several years.

First is a Maturity Center. I am calling it the Midwest Center for Spiritual Transformation. The name may change, but the emphasis is equipping believers to grow deeper in their walk with Christ and experience true spiritual transformation. Paul said that transformation should come by the “renewing of your mind” in Romans 12:2. This will be a center where believers can learn how to study the Bible, pray, share their faith, etc. It was also be a center where they can study books of the Bible and doctrines of our faith. We will have a variety of resources available to them and a structured teaching plan. We also have the potential of using this center to allow bi-vocational pastors and others in ministry to develop their education and skills. Some of you will have the opportunity to teach these studies.

Second is a Mobilization Center. I believe God wants us to start evangelistic Bible studies in our community through relationships. These Bible studies may be taught at home, work or school. You would simply invite those you know who are not believers but have an interest in spiritual matters. We will train you and provide the curriculum. Wade and Barbara Akins will lead a training seminar March 12-13. This material will also be used to start churches overseas. More on that later.

Third is a Ministry Center. After reading Matthew 25:31-46, God has made it clear to me Lynwood is in a position to do more to help hurting people. We already have a good understanding and ministry with Celebrate Recovery, but we’re still missing a tremendous opportunity and need. I believe God wants us to build a ministry center on our church campus. These buildings would include but not limited to a Men’s Residence for men in transition from recovery or homelessness. We need a Women’s Shelter for the same reasons but also for abused women and their children. We need an Emergency Shelter for abused or neglected children who cannot be with their parents. Other government agencies provide these much needed services, but I am deeply convicted that we have the opportunity to give them the spiritual help they need in a loving, godly, safe environment. There will be greater spiritual instruction and accountability which will help provide greater success in the lives of these individuals.

All these ministries will evolve over time, but we must begin the work now. Yes, it is overwhelming and a lot of work. Someone may say, “We can’t do all that.” We can’t, but God can! That’s why I am firmly convinced this Greater Things Vision is from God. Again, please listen to the message, and listen to it again. I believe every single one of us will have a place to serve God and glorify Him!

In Christ,

Mark

First Baptist Church Euless, Texas celebrated my father's 50 year anniversary in ministry the evening of December 6. This is a church he once pastored years ago and also served as their interim pastor about four years ago. I had the great privilege of preaching and honoring my mom and dad. My three younger sisters and some of their kids were there as well as many dear friends. It was an incredible evening. Words are inadequate to express my love for my parents and their faithfulness in ministry all these years. They have been a great example to me and many others in the ministry. I am truly blessed.

For those of you who are members of Lynwood, I want you to do everything possible to be here January 10 as I share my State of the Church message. I have been praying and seeking God for the last six months asking Him to reveal what He what He wants for Lynwood. Now that I have been your pastor for the last eighteen months, I believe God has given me a clear picture of where we are and where we need to go. This vision will require great faith, courage and resources, but I know we serve a great God who will meet every challenge and need we have through His people. The way only God will be glorified as we accomplish His will. More on that later. Don't forget January 10!

In Christ,

Mark

Christmas is fast approaching! I will begin a new series this Sunday, Reliving Christmas. We're going to take a look back to understand what Christmas is really all about. I believe we will gain a fresh perspective which will make this Christmas much more meaningful.

LYNWOOD members . . . I need your help. We have about one fourth of the total amount of food we need for our Christmas Food Baskets which will be delivered Saturday, December 12. Please, please, please bring a sack of goods with you this Sunday so we can meet the needs of our community. I know you'll come through. Thanks!

Don't forget about our children's Christmas music program this Saturday and Sunday at 6:00 p.m. Are you getting frantic about Christmas or life in general? Stop, and let God put it all in perspective with the simple story of Christmas presented by our children.

In Christ,

Mark