Hey Westsiders,
Let me tell you about a truly remarkable story . . . Jesus said to go and make disciples of all nations. He said to go and tell everyone the Good News.
That is what we do as Christians if we are following what is known as “The Great Commission.”
How does that happen? Let me tell you:
• People come to Christ
• He forgives them and sets them on a good path
• He gives them purpose and hope
• They in turn tell others about this Good News
• Some share with their family and friends
• Others share with their co-workers or neighbors
• Then, new folks commit their lives to Christ
• Then, the process is repeated . . . over and over again
This has been happening for over 2000 years!
Somebody told somebody who told somebody who told somebody who told YOU! Remarkable isn’t it? God uses ordinary people (like you and me) to spread His Good News. In fact, He limits this spreading of the Good News to us, His people . . . now this is truly remarkable.
While each believer shares this Good News to their circle of influence, God calls some people to equip us for this task. They teach us and train us and encourage us and love us until we are strong enough to go out and share the Gospel. These special people are called Pastors. They are “shepherds” the Bible says.
Patrick and Vanessa McNamara have been at Westside for close to three years now. We have all grown to love them dearly. God has called them to start a new church and to shepherd His people. Patrick will soon be leading his own church with his own eldership. Patrick will lead people, teach people, equip people, and love them. He will teach them God’s Word and how it applies to their lives. He will encourage them to impact their sphere’s of influence just like we do at Westside. What a grand adventure is in store for Patrick, Vanessa, Josh and Meg! What a reward awaits them when they see Jesus!
Now, this is important. You can participate in their reward by supporting them in this great task. You can pray: by yourself, with your family, in your small group. You can also help support them financially. Would you prayerfully consider giving a one time gift this Sunday as we take a special offering for their church plant? Would you also consider supporting this new church venture for a monthly amount for the next year? If all who are friends and family of Westside would just give $25 per month for a year, it would make a tremendous difference to the Macs and to the Kingdom. You will have an opportunity to give this weekend and through Christmas Eve if God so moves your heart in that direction. (I mailed a letter to all of the Westside family this past week with further details. If you did not receive a letter, and would like one, please call the church office.)
Also, this Sunday, December 18 at 5pm, we will be having an all-church potluck to send them off with our blessing and support. I hope that you can make it and joining with us in saying “fare thee well.”
Our Christmas Eve Services will be at 4:00, 5:30 & 7:00pm. I hope to see you at one of these services as we celebrate Jesus as Lord and once again share the Good News with all who attend.
Please have a wonderful Christmas with your family and friends. Love you guys . . .
Steve