February 3, 2006

Dear family and friends of WCPC:

Super Bowl Sunday in America is almost a national holiday. Even people who haven’t watched a game all year tune in. Some for the commercials. Others just because everyone else is doing it. I remember early in my ministry planning a Sunday evening event opposite the Super Bowl. Not too many attended and I never made that mistake again.

Now I’m a sports fan, but I think I keep it in balance. Its entertainment and I can, like so many others, relax and escape, experiencing through my team the highs and the lows. When I’m at a game I have a good time cheering for my team. Sunday when the teams are announced and run onto the field the stands will go wild. What a feeling that must be. To have thousands cheering you on!

The writer of Hebrews says that since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witness we ought to lay aside all that hinders us and run with perseverance the race that is set before us (Hebrews 12:1). I like the image of that passage. The saints who have gone before us, who have finished their race, cheering us on as we finish ours.  While the game that will be played Sunday has some significance for a few, the race that we are running as disciples of Christ has significance that can impact lives all around us, and not just for eternal, but for the here and  now.

Remember that when you getting up early or staying up late to finish your daily devotions. Remember that when you volunteer to come alongside of someone who has a need that you can help meet. Remember that when you are faced with the choice between being faithful in your business or your school or compromising your principles in the false belief it will get you ahead. Remember that when you’re faced with temptations. We are not alone in this race. Not only is God with us, not only are we surrounded by such a cloud of witnesses, but we have each other. I love the comment of a little child who was frightened by a storm. Her mother came in and told her that God was with her. She hugged her mom and said, “I know. But right now I need someone with skin on.” 

Trust I will see you on Sunday and enjoy the Super Bowl!

Blessings,

David Jones

1. Remember this Sunday is Scout Sunday at 11:00 a.m.  If you’re a scout, come dressed in your uniform. As part of worship we will recognized those students who have recently completed their “God and Family” and “God and Country” Awards.
2. This Sunday is also Souper Bowl Sunday. Everyone attending will have the opportunity to give a donation that we will give to a local ministry to teens. Our junior and senior highs will be collecting the offering as you leave. A dollar donation is suggested, but you can give more.