What do you want me to do?

I used to think about Christmas gifts all the time. It started out as a kid always wanting that big gift. Then it changed as a parent and I always got excited about giving the perfect gift. Now, at 65 years old, I rarely think about Christmas gifts at all. When someone asks what I want for Christmas I really have a hard time answering because as an adult, if I want something, or need something, I just go and buy it. 

Last night we had a Christmas celebration dinner at South Memorial. We had such fun hanging out with our church family and the many visitors that attended. Our dear friends Dane and Christina Bailey came and led the fun singing of Carols and the meal was fantastic, as always. Stephanie and I received a wonderful gift from our congregation. I just feel so awkward receiving gifts from them. I am not sure they realize what a gift they are to us. That is what I feel like when anyone gives me a gift. I really mean it when I say, "It is not necessary." But I would also humbly say, I am so thrilled by the expression of gratitude.  

As a pastor, of only about 8 months, I just want people to know my heart, my goals, my reason for serving. Yes, I am doing the best I can at leading a group of sheep. I pray constantly for God's guidance and direction in the day-to-day planning and service that takes place. I just want to do God's will in the lives of these people.

I greatly appreciate the gifts. I appreciate the support, and the encouragement from the congregation. I receive so many cards and notes of encouragement. All of those things are great, but I have one goal and I do not want it to get lost in the weeds. 

I WANT PEOPLE WHO ARE LOST to find JESUS so that they can start their journey making disciples. 

That would be, and that is, the GREATEST GIFT I could ever receive. 

Yesterday, at the end of the message I shared Mary's response to the ANNOUNCEMENT that she was going to bring the SAVIOR into the world. 

"Mary responded, 'I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true.' And then the angel left her." (Luke 1:38, NLT)

This short passage of scripture is so powerful. In the midst of chaos going on in Mary's world from the miraculous conception of Jesus. The unexpected but greatly anticipated arrival of the KING brought a humble servant to her knees, saying, "Whatever you want me to do, Lord, I will do it."

I am to that point in my life. I just want to do God's will. The greatest gift is to see that desire bear fruit with a GROWING KINGDOM. 

I know that sounds like something a PASTOR is supposed to say. But, it truly is my heart. I love that I get to spend time with some great people. I love getting to love on THE FAMILY of GOD, but their greatest gift to me would be a renewed effort and a focused heart on expanding the KINGDOM. JUST helping ONE MORE LOST SOLE find JESUS and helping those new followers grow in their love and desire to serve THE KING, that is my desire. AND I believe it is the desire of the KING I SERVE. 

Thank you SMDCOG for the beautiful gift. I thank you all for your efforts to grow the KINGDOM and to guide your community, family, and friends to the SAVIOR of the WORLD. As we are nearing the end of 2025, I pray that even in the midst of chaos in the world, you will always focus your energy on SERVING THE KING says, "Whatever you want me to do, LORD, I will do it."

Heavenly Father, I praise you for the gift of South Memorial and those servants within that flock that have a genuine desire to SERVE in YOUR KINGDOM. May we all focus on your will. May we all listen as you prompt us to be ambassadors for the KINGDOM. May we all see the fruit by adding just ONE MORE to the KINGDOM OF GOD ruled by our great KING, JESUS! AMEN!

WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO SEE THE KINGDOM OF GOD GROW BY ONE MORE SOUL!

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If you haven't repented of your sin, accepted what Jesus did for you on the cross, dying for your sins, or if you have not committed your life to Jesus, TODAY could be that day. give your life to the Lord. 

"because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved." (Romans 10:9-10, ESV)

If you gave your life to Jesus today, text the word "faith" to (765)-896-4302 and we will follow up with material for you and join you in your walk of faith!