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January 20, 2005
Dear Church Family,
Wow, its 2005. As we turn the calendar yet again, we are faced with another year. With a new year comes, for many of us, new resolutions. Well, how are you doing with yours? Unfortunately, for the vast majority of people, the resolutions made just a few days ago have since been forgotten or given up on. If that is the case, then what will our goals for 2005 be? The apostle Paul speaks to that question in Philippians 3:13-14. He said, "... one thing I do: forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."
Let me encourage you in 2005 to be L.A.T.E. (Live As The Example) everywhere you go and in everything you do. While 2004 may have presented you with a unique set of circumstances or situations, let me assure you, 2005 will do the same. As we reflect on 2004, we need to ask ourselves, did we leave a "Tupos" (make an impact or be a Godly example) as a result of the events of 2004? Nevertheless, Paul says forget it. Let's look forward to 2005. Let's not make another resolution, but rather a pledge that in 2005, we will strive to live a life that will be pleasing to our Lord in our speech, life, love, faith, and purity.
We at New Hope will have many opportunities to minister to our church family, the community, the state, and to the world. Our effectiveness, however, to a large extent, will be determined by how L.A.T.E. we are and the "Tupos" or the impressions we make on others. Matthew 7:12 says, "[s]o in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you." The way we live and how we show our love for each other will exemplify our beliefs. "By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." John 13:35. We need to make it clear to the world in 2005 that we are disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ.
2005 is already shaping up as a year for missions at New Hope and what a wonderful way to leave a lasting "Tupos" on the world. I'm excited about the spring revival and I want you to plan on being a part of it. Its titled "Spring Into Missions." Just as with any mission project, there will be something for everyone. Yes, even you. Other mission activities on the 2005 calendar is the January Honduras mission trip, the June mission trip, the Baptist Men's day, WMU Focus day, the Tsunami offering, Annie Armstrong, VBS, and many more yet to be scheduled. Please find your place in God's work and don't let God's blessings pass you by as you strain toward what is ahead and pressing on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called you heavenward in Christ Jesus. Remember, our church mission is "[p]roclaiming and teaching the gospel of Christ and equipping believers to minister."
Joy,
Russ Bradley
Also, see these special letters:
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