My dear brothers and sisters in Christ...

Too often, in the church, we live as if we are members of an exclusive club - taking care of only our own, and associating only with those who have qualified for membership. Too often, we have separated ourselves into communities and congregations by race, national origin, or economic status - shunning those who are not like us. Too often, we have failed to reach across religious, denominational, or ethnic lines to share the love and good news of Our God and Savior. Too often, we have been content just to enjoy the religious and social fellowship of our own congregations - and failed to notice or respond to the needs of the entire community around us. And, too often, we have allowed church attendance to be the beginning and end of our walk and work as Christians. There is so much more that God could do with us and through us, if we would give Him the entirety of our hearts, our lives, and our talents - and, if we would look beyond ourselves and our congregations to care for and about all those whom God has created and given His Son to save.

                                                                        * * *
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ...
by Joseph Weilenbeck

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Are we doing all we can with this life?
Or, are we seeking and praying just for our own,
And leaving all those not just like us alone?

And is Jesus asking, "Where is My church?
Why are Mine walking by, while others lie hurt?
Why do so many gather on My day in pride,
And when the service is over, leave Me locked up inside?

"Oh, you whom I love, this is not what I said.
I've given you life, but you walk as still dead.
You can't take My love and not give it away,
Nor bask in My riches while others decay.

"Oh, you whom I've purchased, please don't come alone.
Help all you know hear Me, I'll make them a home.
And while they still labor with you on this earth,
Love them and serve them for all that you're worth.

"For, children, I love every sinner, you see.
And each one I want to be forever with Me.
Not one is at all less deserving than you.
And, if I give you My love, then you must love them too.

"No matter their country or color of skin,
I died for each one; I paid for their sin.
With those you call least, that is where I will be.
And, until you see them, you know you cannot see Me.

"Oh, you whom I love, I beg you reach out your hand.
Share My hope with all of them; that is My plan.
My Word and My Spirit will show you the way.
Just turn from your darkness; turn to My light of day."

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
How will we answer our dear Savior tonight?
Will we love, seek, and serve Him beyond just our own,
That none whom He loves will be left, by us, alone?

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Let God's Spirit reign within us tonight.
Let us be humble and just, and let us walk in His ways
And, by His grace, love all His children all of our days.

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ...


Joseph Weilenbeck 2018