Moving Upward Together: Day 1

 

We are so thankful to have this opportunity to study, pray, and discern together over the next 40 days. St. Mark has a rich history filled with mission, worship, fellowship, education, and so much more. We look to build on this solid foundation as we discern where God is leading us in the future. This devotional shows the many blessings we have experienced on our campus over the years and provides a daily centering moment. Please commit to joining us for this study as we trust the LORD to lead us onward and upward. The church will gather on Pentecost Sunday, June 8 for our Celebration Worship. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. 

In Hope and Confidence, Pastor Dave and the Capital Campaign Committee

Day 1, Chartering Document – Pastor Dave

See what large letters I make when I am writing in my own hand” (Galatians 6:11, NRSV.) 

Tom Brokaw famously called the Americans born between 1901 and 1927, “The Greatest Generation.” They lived through the Great Depression, fought in World War II, and raised families during the Baby Boom. They exemplified duty, honor, courage, and a sense of responsibility. These individuals were also joiners. Civic organizations like Rotary, Kiwanis, Soroptimist International, and many other groups saw their numbers swell as this generation joined their ranks. It was also the high-water mark for church attendance. On Pentecost Sunday, 1962, a group came together to create a new Presbyterian worshipping community in the heart of a growing neighborhood. They trusted the LORD and contributed their time, talents, and treasure. They also signed their names on a large chartering document. I recognize some of the signatures, but many passed away long before I arrived at St. Mark. The important thing is the legacy they built and the blessings they continue to share. The word “commitment” doesn’t carry the same gravitas as it once did. We sample, we test, we try things out, but many of us are scared to sign on the dotted line. Jesus isn’t looking for half-hearted disciples. The call is always to follow (even to the cross.) The road ahead is difficult, but we never walk it alone. Jesus instructs the disciples, “Everyone therefore who acknowledges me before others, I also will acknowledge before my Father in heaven” (Matthew 10:32, NRSV.) It was true 2,000 years ago, it was true 63 years ago, it’s true today. What commitment is God asking you to make today? 

“Lord, we give you thanks for all the saints you place in our lives and the continuing blessing they provide. Help us to love you more dearly, to see you more clearly, and to follow you more nearly over these forty days. Amen.”