Being a Conduit of the Holy Spirit

Dear Friends in Christ,

One of the most rewarding things about being a pastor is that occasionally I get to be the conduit of the Holy Spirit. I never want to take credit for what the Holy Spirit is doing, because it is not about me, it is about what Jesus Christ is doing through us. 

I believe God is using Stonebridge UMC to change lives. Most of the time we don’t even know it. But the Holy Spirit does use us in ways beyond our understanding. So much of the time, it’s just about showing up and being the presence of Christ through a kind word, a smile, or a listening ear. 

Monday, I received a very kind email from a person who came to Stonebridge UMC with her family for the first time. Here is just part of what she wrote: 

“A member of your church invited me to come to worship at Stonebridge. I had told my kids before service....let's try some churches. And find our home. Pastor John....when we left today two things were said by my kiddos.... "When can we come again?!!!" and "mom, please don't take us other places. Can we please come back here?" And personally for me....your message today felt like it was written directly for my ears to hear. I had goosebumps during your sermon. I have been that person you talked about for a long, long time...  "I can connect with God outside of church. I don't need the church". Etc! I am fired up Pastor John. And it all brings me back to that plan... Things happen for a reason. Someone gave me that nudge last night at 11:30... The Holy Spirit maybe?!!!”

Now, let me be clear here. This is not about me. I am just a pastor who tries to be faithful to God’s call. But, if God can use me, then God can use anybody. I mean that. God can use all of us for the work set before us.

I believe that Stonebridge UMC is uniquely positioned to be a powerful force for the message of the Gospel of Jesus. Join me in showing up, praying for guidance, looking for ways to serve and words to share. Join me in making Stonebridge UMC the place where people come to find new hope for the future.

This Sunday, we begin a series of sermons called “Songs of Hope”. Each Sunday we will celebrate a modern song of hope and then explore how the scriptures lead us to a life of hope and promise. When you have time, listen to the song “Yet Not I But Through Christ in Me.” This is our song of hope for August 13. In Mark 4:35-41, Jesus rebukes the wind and the waves with these words, “Peace, be still.” 

My life gets crazy at times, and I long for these words from Jesus, “Peace, be still.” They are words to live by. 

See you Sunday. Invite someone to worship. If you do, maybe I’ll get another email to cherish. 

Pastor John Allen