Jesus said, "If any want to become my followers..." (Mark 8:34)

​    What does following Jesus REALLY mean?  Jesus answers this question with the words of Mark 8:34, "let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me."
And down through the centuries, the church has attempted to do that through various ways.  From literally following Jesus' steps, as His first disciples did.  To living in a community where they shared everything (as we see in Acts 2).  Baptism has always been the entrance into the journey of following Jesus.  And in at least modern times, we've understood following Jesus or discipleship as being a member of a congregation, and attending weekly worship services, and maybe a few other activities.
    But in recent years, we are discovering that how people do things is different than before.  Not only in the church, but in all of society.  Technology, social media, and other 
things, have led to many changes in all areas of life.  This Sunday, we are invited after the worship service, to join in watching a 18 minute video and discussion on "A Changing World".
    So what does this mean for how we follow Jesus?  While many things are changing, here are a few things that do NOT change:

• God is faithful and will always keep his promises.
• "Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever" (Hebrews 13:8)
• God loves all people.
• We are still saved by grace alone.
• We all receive eternal life throughGod's grace through faith in Jesus Christ.
• God is with us always.

   I think the church and congregations will be different in upcoming years.  But we can always be certain that God wil be with us and guide us through all the changes and challenges in life.

   May the Lord of the church and our lives give us the confidence and hope we need as we face whatever life brings!

God Bless,

Pastor Steve