People Need to Hope of Jesus Christ

Greetings in the Name of our Lord,

Next week is Vacation Bible Camp at Stonebridge. This is our chance to share the love and grace of Jesus with kids. It is a week of fun, energy, and learning. I love Vacation Bible Camp. There is nothing like seeing the wonder and energy of kids learning and laughing together in God’s house. 

This Sunday I will be preaching on John 5:1-9. The passage tells the story of one of the early miracles of Jesus. Jesus ventures out to the pool at Bethzatha, where he meets a man who had been ill for 38 years. To this man, Jesus asks, “Do you want to be healed?” Without hesitation, Jesus says to him, “Stand up, take your mat and walk.” At once the man was made well.

Much has been said over the past several years about the decline of the Church across America. Many church leaders wring their hands and postulate that the church has lost its relevance for society.

Here is what I believe.

We live in a world divided by hate where the average person is more and more isolated. Fear and anxiety are common as we have experienced the decline of our society and the erosion of the values that hold us together as communities.

But… every great movement of the Holy Spirit has taken place when the world seemed lost beyond hope. I believe that we are on the verge of another great awakening. Especially now, people need the hope of Jesus Christ and the community of the Church. The words of Jesus still ring true, "Do you want to be healed?" Jesus is offering the words of hope and opportunity.

We are the Church! I believe that Stonebridge is uniquely placed to be a beacon of hope. We have the location. We have the facilities. We have the people. And… most important… we have the message of the Gospel the world so desperately needs. 

Let’s love like never before; live with anticipation and hope; and make Stonebridge truly the most joyous place on earth. Get ready Church… the Spirit is coming. Hear the call of Jesus. Stand up! Live for the Christ who offers new life.

See you Sunday. Let’s see what God can do.

Pastor John Allen