First Steps – November 28, 2022

Two of my favorite books carry the same title: The Story of Christianity by Justo Gonzalez. They are a two-volume set of Church history that was a required reading for first-year seminary students. Iā€™ve always liked them because I love the Churchā€™s history. For at one point, I consideredĀ becoming a Church History professor; however, over the years, my affection for these books has deepened because I like the concept of the story. Ā A narrative directed by God that now includes me. Ā 

Do you consider yourself part of the narrative of Godā€™s work? Sometimes, I think we miss this important part of the gospel. We are in fact very much a part of that story. You are a character; you have a part to play. God uses you as much as he used Moses, Peter, Andrew, Paul, and many others. Donā€™t miss your part in the story.

Read Hebrews 11:1-12:3. Ponder the narrative of faith.Ā Focus on the beginning of Chapter 12 and know that you now have a part to play. Ā 





Ā This Week’s Readings:
*Monday – Revelation 8
*Tuesday – Revelation 9
*Wednesday – Revelation 10
*Thursday – Revelation 11
*Friday – Revelation 12

Prayer Requests:
*Heal those who are sick and protect those who are not.
*Comfort those who are grieving and in distress.
*Wisdom for our leaders as they navigate through uncertain times.
*Guidance for those seeking to find their way.
*Continued Growth Inside and Outside the Walls of St. Paul UMC.

ā€œDonā€™t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.ā€ – Philippians 4:6