I prayed for opportunities to strengthen our association, but the process hurt more than I expected. I never imagined it would mean fewer members worshiping with us on Sunday morning.
My friend and fellow pastor, Gary Fitzpatrick, leads a revitalizing ministry at First Baptist Church (FBC) in Roland, Okla. We see each other several times a month, chat on the phone when we can and pray for one another. He’s encouraged me, shared wisdom with me and helped me discover the greener pastures of a maturing ministry.
Gary recently faced a challenge. Although eager to worship, his congregation depended on recorded music for their services. There’s nothing wrong with that, of course. However, God blessed Denver Street, the church I serve, with not just one or two musically gifted individuals but four!
That’s when I had to confront a question: Were my values merely aspirational or genuine? When I say I care more about our church’s sending capacity than its seating capacity, do I truly mean it?
We prayed about sending someone to Roland to help lead worship, but I wasn’t sure if anyone would be willing to go. Little did I know that God was already at work. While Gary and I planned and prayed, Carolyn Colvert was wrestling with a call of her own. She felt led to step in and serve.
This past Sunday night, our church and FBC Roland came together for a joint service, worshiping, listening to Carolyn’s testimony and praying over her as we commissioned her to serve at our sister church. This is what associational work should be. We are stronger together. By seeing the bigger picture, we can make disciples of the whole world.
I’m praying for more revitalization in our associations. The United Association will meet at Grace Baptist Church in Russellville this Saturday for fellowship and encouragement. We’ve never met without business planned, but we’re trying something new to stress that our partnership extends beyond the formal. Associations are strongest through friendships.
Get involved. Lead your church to be involved. Let’s serve together for the glory of God.
