Christ First UMC | 663 Lakeview Avenue | Jamestown NY 14701

May 2024 - Don't Do That

Don’t Do That!

Easter Sunday is behind us and our attention is now drawn to the months ahead. We are all looking to more sunshine, warmer temperatures, and the    return of the beauty of the earth. Maybe you are planning some vacation time and counting down the days. Personally, I am looking for some days at the campground, hiking, and working in the yard. When the winter is behind and the sun grows warm, in the late spring and early summer, I love to go camping and being outside, but there are things that I do not do. I often take a rest from some extra activities. I try to cancel as many appointments and meetings as possible. There are several things that I do not do, but there are three things I do not neglect: Prayer, Bible Reading and attending church.

In the book of Hebrews it says, “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” How can we possibly hold on to hope and encourage each other to do good things if we do not take time for prayer and Bible reading? We cannot take a break from communicating with the One who created and loves us dearly. This writer goes on to say that we should not give up meeting together, as some have done. This only makes sense. If we are to encourage each other, we have to spend time together. Just like we cannot take a break from our time with God, we cannot disconnect from our church family.

I used to tell my kids that you are like the people you hang out with. That is because you encourage each other to be the best (or worst) you can be.   Coming to church for Sunday services, Bible study, prayer time and other  activities gives us an opportunity to   encourage each other, do good things, and receive encouragement.

As the weather turns warmer and our attention is drawn to more activities, make sure there is still time in your schedule for Prayer, Bible reading and attending church. As you enjoy the     unfolding of spring, spend some time cultivating your relationship with God and the church family. There are things you cannot afford to set aside.
 
Pastor Jenni Piatt

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