Bethany Christian Church The Pastor's Pen

From the Pastor:          

In the spring, we were blessed by having Linda Sherman from Brandon give us a pottery lesson during worship.  We related the components of throwing a pot to how we are shaped to live as a follower of Jesus Christ.  My sermons for the next nine weeks will also focus on how we are shaped as vessels for Christ to use.   

As we consider the ways in which we are shaped, we remember that the process of pottery making required several steps:    Centering ~ The clay must be centered, and the vessel is only as true and strong as its center.  As Christians, our center means everything!  If Christ is our center, we won’t wobble when stress and pain come our way, and our lives will model the love, courage and humility of our Savior.       

            Opening ~ This process requires the hands-on attention of the potter as the clay begins to take shape.  God is giving us personal attention this day, hoping we will be open to a filling of God’s truth and power.

            Keeping the clay wet ~ If the clay is allowed to dry out, it will lose its elasticity and may even break apart.  As God works to shape us, find opportunities every day to let the water of life spill over us, refreshing and keeping us pliable and responsive to our Savior’s touch.

            Firing ~ Extreme heat is essential to remove impurities from the clay, and the vessel becomes even more beautiful and useful than before.  As we spend time in the fire, remember that God has promised to be with us, making us stronger and more beautiful for service.  

I hope you will be in worship as we discover how we are shaped:   

8/22   Shaped by the Word

8/29   Shaped for Companionship

9/5   Shaped for a purpose

9/12   Shaped by Christ’s Teachings

9/19   Shaped to Shine

9/26   Shaped for Humility

10/3   World Communion Sunday and

Lisa Sexton’s report on her mission trip to Haiti

10/10   Shaped for Generosity

10/17   Shaped to Serve

See you in worship!

Peace,