A New Beginning

Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Isaiah 41
NT: Acts 24
W&W: Psalm 73

Today’s Reflection:

It was a great day yesterday. I began my ministry in the pulpit of Bethel Church of the Nazarene. It was “A New Beginning.”

After Dr. Doug Van Nest (our District Superintendent) presented Lana and me to the congregation (It was somewhat embarrassing to be received with a standing ovation), we joined with Kami and Mark (our worship leader) Owen in singing an a capella rendition of “My Jesus I Love Thee.” After that I preached my first sermon of many to come to the good congregation at BNC.

My scripture text was the first three verses of Mark, with special emphasis on the opening phrase: “The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ.” As I shared what it means for a pastor and people to begin their journey together, I felt the hand and heart of God helping me. God was in that gathering!

I concluded the message with an invitation for all those who would commit to a new beginning to stand to their feet. I felt urged on by the eagerness of the people: Even as I was giving the instructions, there was a sense of “Hurry up, Pastor! We want to stand before God and commit to this new beginning!” As soon as I “turned them loose,” the whole congregation spontaneously moved to their feet. Several made their way to the altar and many others joined them to pray.

After the time of prayer, Dr. Van Nest installed me as pastor along with my helpmate and partner in ministry. I will share with you tomorrow the covenant we made as pastor and people.

God is to be praised! I am so grateful for his call to Bethel Church of the Nazarene. It is indeed a new beginning: for Lana and me, and for this church.

On this Monday, I close with this: God is a God of New Beginnings. If you need to make a fresh start in life, you can do it! Let him give you a new beginning!

This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
1 John 1.9: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.