Your email preview

“Do not conform to this world…” Romans 12:1,2

Change is inevitable, and change is essential. I don’t always like it but it does have its upsides. Some of it happens and I have no control over; those are the times I learn to be adaptable, adjustable, and flexible. Some of it is in my total control; those are the times when I have to make a decision that could potentially change my life forever. That’s when I need to “step up to the plate,” “bite the bullet,” “take a stand,” and “make my move.” I cannot let the world determine for me what my future will be. It’s my future and I’m in charge of deciding all that I can about my future.

Popular or not, I have decided to follow Jesus….let the chips fall where they may. It’s a great song, “I have decided to follow Jesus.” And it’s got a great message including phrases like:

“Though no one join me, still I will follow…”

“The world behind me, the cross before me…”

Or as Linda Becker reminded me this week, “There are times when the unkind, judging, hateful world around us seems to be squeezing love from the best in us. That’s when I remember my Dad’s favorite text. “Don’t let the world squeeze you into its mold.” Romans 12:2. We can be transformed through God’s love. He will renew our minds, and our hearts and give us strength to keep loving.”

My whole verse for today says, “Do not conform to this world, but be transformed, by the renewing of your mind…” I’m the one who decides what gets into my mind and what I do with what’s already there. It’s my call; I can’t blame anyone else for what gets in and how I respond to it. It’s my mind, it’s my choice. And, “I have decided to follow Jesus… No turning back, no turning back.”

Have a great day making your decision,

Pastor Rich

Quote for the day: "Nothing can make our lives, or the lives of other people, more beautiful than perpetual kindness." –Tolstoy

PS Family Worship 7:30pm in the church. Chiz Rider in concert. Come hear this amazing musician who has dedicated his unbelievable talent on the trumpet to God. Witness “circular breathing” and be blessed by Chiz’s gift given back to God.

PPS Afterglo- Join Jordan and the Nursing folks right after Family Worship as they host their annual bonfire and s’mores in the open field just north of the Larson Lifestyle Center (and home of the Nurses!). This is always a fun event for all to enjoy; a great time of fellowship with a focus on enjoying the presence of each other and Jesus.

PP..S A good friend of mine and his wife are going through a really hard time right now and they asked me if I would ask the Union family to pray for them. She has just been diagnosed with cancer that does not have a good prognosis. Please lift Dale and Holly up in your prayers. Thanks

PPPS "Union College!!!! Do you have a song, poem, testimony, or any talent that you'd like to share for the glory of God? If so, I invite you to sign up and be part of an “open mic” this Sabbath (as in tomorrow!). It’s all happening in Woods Auditorium at 3:00 pm. Contact Angenita Pierre-Louis for more details and to get on her list of participants.