With each new year comes a fresh opportunity to make deliberate plans for spiritual growth. I think we can all agree that we have plenty of areas in which we need to become more like Jesus Christ. The simple thing to do would be to enter 2016 and continue to live in the moment and take the path of least resistance. In the moment it is so easy to be content with having taken the first step of receiving Christ but not actively living for Christ. It is easy to choose something good in place of taking time with Jesus. It is easy to choose to be entertained rather than engaging spiritually with our families. It is my prayer that 2016 would be radically different for each of us. On Vision Sunday I will be preaching and conveying the vision that God has given me for our church. I believe that it will be life-changing for you as you allow God to work freely in your life. You may ask, “Why do I need to attend every service on Vision Sunday?” Here is my three-fold answer.
- Recognition of Need—If you do not think you need to grow this year in your relationship with Jesus, then Vision Sunday will just be another Sunday exercise. Vision Sunday by design will give us a fresh perspective on our own personal areas of need. Once those areas have been identified they can be met with the help of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God. Just remember, when we come to God humbly expressing need, He promises us His grace. His grace is the strength and enablement we desperately need. James 4:6 “But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.” What could be more exciting than anticipating God meeting your specific spiritual needs with His grace this year.
- Preparation for Growth—When preparing for a project you need the right tools. In construction I learned how important the right tool was to effectively accomplishing a task. Jesus has commanded us in 2 Peter 3:18, “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.” You and I need the right tools to see growth in our lives. On Vision Sunday during the evening service I will be making tools available that will help you take your relationship with Jesus to the next level.
- Anticipation of Opportunities—I believe that God has given some incredible opportunities for our church in the coming year. During the evening service of Vision Sunday we will dream together and I will share the vision about events and projects that we will anticipate and accomplish by faith. Hebrews 11:6 “But without faith it is impossible to please him…” I don’t want to just enter 2016 riding on the glorious past. I do not believe that would please God. I want us to by faith embrace the opportunities of 2016 and see our God do the impossible. Will you join me? Luke 17:5 “And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.” Will you like the disciples ask God to increase your faith?
I look forward to an inspirational day together on Vision Sunday and the best part of it will be being together with God’s people.
Josiah Kagin 