We Care

I’ve experienced something that I have never experienced before here at Peace. It’s something I’ve always wanted to be a part of, but to be honest didn’t know how to facilitate.  I’ve had the experience before, but never like this. What is this new experience? 

Adult Conversions and Baptisms.

Here at Peace, we’ve witnessed 7 adults come to the Lord through Baptism since last fall.  To give perspective, in my previous 21 years of ministry, I’ve probably witnessed or been involved with 5 adult conversions and baptisms, and I would dare say this is more than most LCMS pastors.

While I feel so blessed to be a part of God working so powerfully in our midst, I’ve been wondering why is this happening?  We ultimately know this is the Holy Spirit’s work, but how is the Spirit working through us and is there anything we can learn from and replicate?

And this is where many of you have been teaching me.  All 7 of our new brothers and sisters have come to faith through the relationships and care of other Christians.  Without exception.  Whether it was through the ongoing care and support of Grief Share, or the love and care for a neighbor or family member.  These newly baptized saints met Jesus through the love, care and witness of members of our congregation. 

Stepping back and looking at what’s been happening, it’s not complicated.  You’ve been meeting people where they are, to lead them to whom they need. You’ve cared about them, with no ulterior motive. You’ve been encouraging them, caring for them, giving of your time and love.  You’ve loved people enough to say difficult things and open your lives and your families to those who don’t know Jesus. And eventually an opportunity came to share the reason for the hope we have in Christ Jesus our Lord. 

It’s not a hard concept, but it does come at a cost. Walking with people in their sin is a burden. It’s not always convenient and it often runs contrary to own desires and wishes. It’s the way of the cross. It’s the way of Jesus. Many of you are following in the footsteps of our Lord, who is leading you to meet people where they are.  I couldn’t be prouder and I am so grateful to the Lord for all of you.

The result is something I’ve always hoped to be a part of.  Many are being led to the foot of the Cross and the base of the baptismal font and I hope it’s only the beginning.

Praise God from Whom all Blessings Flow. It is good to be His church.

In His Grip,
Pastor Guy Roberts