|
About the 2006 Annual Conference Theme
Together: Exercise Daily in God
Discipline was a hallmark of the early faith community. It appeared to be a natural part of commitment, because of the persecution faced by Jesus’ followers. Dedication and commitment seem to be lacking from our lives and faith vocabulary today. The church needs to be encouraged and challenged to a stronger commitment. This will be significant for the denomination as we begin the “conversation about being the church,” during the next year.
The scriptures, especially Paul’s letters, remind us often of the merit and blessings of spiritual discipline. Certainly, the example of Jesus is the model for us to imitate. The early faith community was persecuted and that appeared to produce discipline. The Church needs to be challenged to value spiritual discipline. Discipline could strengthen our commitment and dedication to the Lord and the faith community. We need to be reminded over and over again of the value and blessings of spiritual discipline and sharing Christ’s love with others.
Traveling and listening during this past year has been a new adventure. I have encountered many dedicated persons in our denomination. However, I have heard some of these same persons lament the lack of commitment and outreach in their local faith community.
Therefore, I’m going to challenge us to a new level of discipline and commitment. Part of the discipline will be to read a chapter a day in the New Testament. Secondly, pray daily for an individual who needs to know Christ as Lord and Savior. I would also encourage you to join a “cell group” in your congregation to pray with on a regular basis. I’m proposing, “TOGETHER: EXERCISE DAILY IN GOD,” as the theme for the 2006 Annual Conference, using 1 Timothy 4:6-8 as the primary text. The actual wording “exercise daily in God” comes from The Message. “Together” comes from the focus on the denominations ”conversation on being the church” beginning this year.
|
Annual Conference
