Word of the Week: Better Together
Better together is a great phrase. It works for marriage, it’s true in a local church, and it’s true in a community. When we love one another, there is a synergy that comes from the Spirit’s life-giving work in us.
Since the tragic and troubling events of August 12, 2017, a group of pastors with common commitment to the historic Christian faith have been meeting to consider how we should respond (our initial concern), but then later how do we live out our common faith with believers of different ethnic backgrounds and Christian distinctives. This has grown into the Charlottesville Pastor’s Fellowship - a gathering of pastors with historic Christian convictions and practice.
Some time ago we decided to do something together this August 12th to express our Christian unity. We are going to worship together at Sprint Pavilion in C’ville on August 12th at 6:00 PM. We will sing, lament, repent, and celebrate our unity in Christ. It promises to be a joyous and safe way to honor Jesus Christ and come together as God’s people. Sprint Pavilion will have their full complement of security and as always there, there is a “clear bag” policy similar to that at other large venues.
Then on Wednesday night August 15th at Trinity Presbyterian Church, we will gather around tables for food and fellowship, and talk together about problems of race and culture. I mean that quite literally - we will sit at tables with people from other churches and talk about tough topics. We can do that because we love one another and can hear hard things in an atmosphere of grace. We don’t need to be afraid to ask our questions and talk about things that confuse us.
Can I ask something of you Grace members? Would 20 or 30 of you join me on August 12th to worship with our brothers? Yes, bring the whole family! Let’s exalt Jesus Christ with our brothers and sisters! This is a great answer and the beginning of ongoing work together in the gospel.
I would love if another 8 to 15 came down to Trinity on the 15th. I think that could be an amazing experience of laughter, joy, tears, hugs and beauty. If you don’t interact much with African American Christians you are in for a real treat. Some of it will be hard and uncomfortable, but beyond that are some wonderful experiences we can have together!
Thanks to many of you who are praying for Caron and me as we head to Malawi, Africa from July 16-29. We have a Face Book page with up to the date reports if you want to keep up with us. If you signed up to pray for us, that will be up to the minute as well!
In Him,
Don