I have been planning, preparing and praying for this Sunday's message. I'm now wrestling with the title for the message. I like "Gospel Guts" but that seems a bit, ... a bit, ... well, a little tacky or kind of gross sounding, although it would serve to grab one's attention. The reason for such a title is a key word that is found in Matthew 9:36. This word is used in the New Testament ONLY in reference to Christ. It is a word that is rich with meaning. I'll talk about it on Sunday but I don't think I will call the message: "Gospel Guts."
I am leaning toward: "Recognizing and Responding to the Church's Labor Problems." That sounds like an interesting title to me, what do you think? Most churches do have a "labor" problem. In fact, if you read Matthew 9:35-38 you will see that this problem has been around for a LONG time. Prior to serving as a Pastor, I served as a home missionary assisting local churches with their youth ministry. I talked with a lot of Pastors and leaders over a 19 year period. Most church leaders have a "Wish List" of ministry positions they wish they could fill. Needs in their church and community go unmet for a lack of people who are willing to serve. Wouldn't it be something if our church had a "Waiting List" instead of a "Wish List"?
What if someone said: "Pastor I would like to teach our children on Wednesday night." And I told them "Great, but there are three ahead of you who also want to serve in that area, so I will put you on our ministry waiting list or we can place you in another area of ministry." Wow, that would be something. I think every Pastor I know would love to have that problem. The sad reality is that most of us only have a "Wish List."
Well, on Sunday we will discover the Lord's answer to the church's labor problem. I hope to see you at Church this Sunday with an open Bible, a receptive heart, and a willingness to obey the Lord's leading.
Gratefully Laboring for the Lord,
Pastor Mike
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