Farmville Enterprise November 28, 2018
Farmville’s community Thanksgiving service was the perfect reminder that what unites us is more potent than what separates us. God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit – draws us together as one family of faith. “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.” (Ephesians 4:3-7)
We have different tastes; it is only natural. Some of us prefer fiery preaching. Others of us gravitate towards a more sedate exposition of Scripture. Some like to be quite expressive in worship with upbeat songs. Others appreciate worship music that is more traditional. One preference is not superior to another. One way of expressing praise is not more pleasing to God. The substance is important, not the form. The attitude of the worshiper is crucial.
On Sunday night, November 18 folks, young and old, from assorted congregations packed the sanctuary of First Christian Church to give thanks. After singing the lovely “We Gather Together” the band 2Digh4 led us in several more contemporary selections. Pastor Mickie Fields preached a spot-on sermon based on 2 Chronicles 7:14. “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” He stressed the beauty and power of our community coming together. With humility and prayer God will continue this work in Farmville as bonds are strengthened between neighbors.
The service ended with the perfect send-off, an energetic Matt Maher song. “If you’re rich or poor, well it don’t matter. Weak or strong, you know love is what we’re after. We’re all broken but we’re all in this together. God knows we stumble and fall and he so loved the world he sent his son to save us all. And all the people said, ‘Amen.’ And all the people said, ‘Amen.’ Give thanks to the Lord for his love never ends. And all the people said, ‘Amen.’”
celiastone 