One Message. Many Levels.

I realized that both Friday and Saturday's posts mentioned the concept of hearts, being prepared to receive... of being a place of good soil. It reminded me a prayer that Pastor prayed a number of weeks ago now. He prayed that as the message went forth, that it would be milk to those not ready to handle the meat of the Word and equally so, that it would be meat and substance to those that would be left wanting by milk alone.

Every educational process has stages of learning, development and understanding. So too, is the Word of God... as evidenced by the encouragement that we should study it to show ourselves approved. The mystery of preaching is the ability for God uses it as an opportunity to reach every difference among humanity, cutting across every cultural and social demographic and dynamic to one's spiritual state in light of eternity.

This is the power of the Cross and the message of Jesus Christ.

Because at both the beginning and the end of every day, the ground is level at Calvary. Nobody is better or worse, richer or poorer, broken or whole, sick or healthy. We create and analyze these differences and distinctions, but God sees relationship. The existence of it. The opportunity for it. Those under the covering of Christ's grace. And those yet to take advantage.

But on this day of worship, we come together. To be the church. To become a better church. To grow in grace and knowledge and strength, both in faith and in number of God's love.

Pray this #effectiveSunday, that indeed, today would be a day of growth, not only in number as important as that is, but is also in faith. Pray that the bounds of community would be strengthened, as relationships between both humanity and God are built; whether with the first brick or the ten thousandth. May there be a fresh outpouring of God's grace over our lives and may we extend what we have received to those around us, who are facing battles and challenges of which we are not yet aware. Pray that God's Word would indeed be well-received, to accomplish a good work; for we stand on the promise that His Word does not return void. It will do what it was sent to do for all who hear it.

For as God works in our lives
Are we transformed into a great position
Of both His love and His grace.
To impact our world.
Both abroad and locally.
For the glory of God.

- PNC