"We Are The Flock"

I would like to express my sincere appreciation to all who attended the church meeting January 13, 2008. This was a time of visioning and listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit through each person. I was pleased with the attendance and know our church is going to do great things for Jesus Christ. Together we are strong. As Paul wrote to the Philippians' church I concur, "I thank God for every time I remember you. I pray with joy for our partnership" (Phil. 1: 3-4).

As I write this note, the weather is cold and rainy. Our avian friends at our bird feeder are scouring for food and seeking shelter. We need to stay focused and always work together for the good of God's Church.

Each day is a new beginning to our lives. Fresh challenges, problems, and experiences await us. We live now in this day and the days to come. Browne Barr writes in his book, "High Flying Geese", that the church is similar to a flock of migrating geese; they both are a community in passage. We are not people only OF THE WAY, but we are people ON THE WAY. Like geese, we need to honk and encourage one another by praying and staying in formation (fellowship).

Mr. Barr goes on to say that we are similar to geese in other ways. An old hunter tells the truth when he said, "You have to use heavy shot on them geese; the feathers are almost invulnerable. The only way to bag one is catch them moving away from you; then your pellets will penetrate their armor."

The church becomes vulnerable when in retreat. The people of Thalia need to look forward to the wonderful gifts that God has for us in the years to come. We can live in an attitude of gratitude instead of being in the wilderness.

So, can we face tomorrow? Oh, yes, we will with God's help. For it is God who is the leader of the world goose chase known as life. Keep honking, have patience, and offer encouragement to one another. "Do not be deceived; God is not mocked, for what a person sows he/she will reap, so let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith" (Galatians 6:7-10).

Live Alive,
Pastor Art