The Big C Church (and little C churches) has plenty of flaws, but she is still the bride of Christ. On a day that we celebrated both a Family/Child dedication and water baptism, we looked at who the Church is – and who the Church is called to be.

Coming on the heels of the 2021 Texas freeze, the message focuses on how God is with us as we go through the storms of life.

We may be sheep, but we have a Shepherd who loves us - ultimately laying down His life for us.

The Big C Church (and little C churches) has plenty of flaws, but she is still the bride of Christ. On a day that we celebrated both a Family/Child dedication and water baptism, we looked at who the Church is - and who the Church is called to be.

Here is the text from the closing of the message (my love letter to the Church):

Dear Church,

Sometimes I’m frustrated by you. Sometimes you let me down. Sometimes you’re unfaithful. You turn away from your Groom and answer the call of another. Sometimes you have hated and devalued those Jesus loves. Sometimes you’ve turned a blind eye while those who claim the name of Christ have hurt others. You’re not perfect – you can’t be because I’m a part of you.

But often you are amazing. You fertilized the soil in which my childhood faith grew, and you challenged that faith to mature. You affirmed my call and refined my gifts. You celebrated when I married my wife, when my kids were born, when they came to faith in Christ, and when they were baptized. You have cheered me on. You prayed with me when I faced big decisions and when loved ones were sick. You wept with me when I experienced loss.

Together, we have seen lives changed – and mine has been one. Together, we have seen miracles done. Together, we have seen needs met. Together, we have seen healing of bodies, minds, souls, and relationships. Together, we have seen the lost come home. And we still do.

Together, we are the body and the bride of Christ. And while we are imperfect, He loves us dearly and has given His life for us. He has cleansed us, and He presents us to Himself as radiant, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. Church, thank you for loving me, and…I love you too.

You were made in the image of God, and so were those around you. You matter, and they matter!

When Jesus came, He changed everything

Reflections as we gathered for the first time since the Winter Storm

Part of the "Karpos (Fruit of the Spirit)" Series at The Life Church - Arlington

Part of the "Karpos (Fruit of the Spirit") Series at The Life Church - Arlington