I have been bombarded with notes, texts and calls from folks who have begun to put action steps in place as a result of the opportunities we talked about today! I am humbled, but also incredibly excited to watch what a difference we can make in our community, our families and our church in the coming weeks. Let's recap:
First, the now-infamous Complaint Jar. Over the next three weeks, we are going to make contributions to the Complaint Jar each and every time we feel the need to complain, whine or just be envious of others. At the end of the series, we are going to collect these funds and all of the proceeds will be sent to Jamaica, where we have partnered to build a school for underprivileged kids. These kids have a lot to complain about, but usually they don't. We are going to turn what was meant to be whining into blessing for these kids. Kelly and I are putting $1 in the jar each time we mess up. Our kids are contributing a penny. My kids have already busted me once, so I am already down a buck. It is going to be a LONG 3 weeks, but I believe that God wants us to break this cycle of complaining. In all things, be content. Re-read Philippians 4.4-9!
Second, we are going to serve others. We are collecting food and donations for our Thanksgiving Basket food drive. You can either get the list and fill your own basket or bag, or you can donate funds which will be spent solely to feed members of our church and community who are in need.
Third, we are going to stop hanging around negative people. Yes, we will minister to them. However, we will NOT be deterred from celebrating and living life to the fullest! Change your influencers!
Today was a lot of fun. Thinking about my Grandma's dressing is always great, but seeing it as a life-lession is even better. Grandma Orvin is a woman of prayer and power, and I know she is thrilled that even this small, seemingly insignificant thing can help others see Christ!
Check back to the blog every day. A member of our pastoral or leadership team will post every day for the next 21 days. Join the conversation. Post what you are thankful for. I would particularly love to hear how this message spoke to you and what you are going to do to change your circumstances and make a difference! You can also follow us on Twitter (#stuffed21).
It is truly an honor to walk this journey with you!
In Christ,
Pastor Brian
Pastor Brain, l cant thank you enough for bringing back the pass for me the times spent in the kitchen with my mother she was a great women and wonderful mother.l was the cook on my ship at sea when l was in the merchant marnines and carried that on into my family when l got married. my kids will tell lm a great cook But what a great service you did today at VC church lm sure your grandma would be so proud that she was part of your service. my complain Jar want be much but l'll make up for it in nice donation. l will also be bringing 5 to 6 Turkeys for the Holidays when would want them at VC l'll also get another 5 to 6 for Christmas its what l do at this time of year by the Lords eye lm a giver l found that out in my Body Life Class. So once again thank for a great service and sharing your grandma story with us. Bud
ReplyDeleteWhat an awesome service at vC! I can't wait to see the changes in myself, our congregation and our community at the end of the month. Thanks Brian for bringing a super-powerful message that we ALL needed to hear:) I have already asked Belle to make me a complaint jar and she said yes!
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