July 1, 2009

Dear Parishioners, colleagues, and friends:

There is simply no season like Summer (unless it's Spring, Winter, or Fall)!  We have a great number of things to celebrate in our Parish, despite a tough economic climate and some of the challenges our Country is facing both at home and overseas.  God has been good to us, and we praise Him for His goodness and mercy.  Our Parish is growing, and we've got many things to be thankful for.

As you head into the warmer months, may I remind you to continue to reserve a part of your week for God.  Jesus has asked us to spend time each week set aside for Him, and as we come together as a Parish to bring Him the glory, the honor, and the praise that He is due, we're doing so in obedience to Him.  Holy Scripture tells us that God "inhabits the praises of His people." (Psalm 22)  I would suggest that giving God the praise and worship that He is due is the main purpose of the Church on earth. 

So many Christians head to church every week and say they're worshipping - when in point of fact they spend the majority of their time being fed.  In most churches, 85% of the service consists of a sermon, and most sermons fall under the "edification" category.  Mind you - I'm not knocking a good sermon (especially if it's based on Holy Scripture), but I am suggesting that the Early Church met for a different purpose ... and that was to focus on the death of Jesus Christ and the hope of His resurrection.  Their focus was on worship.

So enjoy the beautiful weather - go boating and hiking and camping and fishing - feast yourselves on the beautiful creation that Scripture tells us God made for our enrichment and enjoyment - but don't forget to reserve some time to spend with God, both individually and corporately.

May God richly bless you as you walk in Faith with Him!

+Bp. Tim