05/13/2026
5/13 Midweek Message – The Gift of Encouragement
Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (NIV)
Dear Friends,
One of the greatest gifts we can share with one another, especially during a pastoral vacancy, is that of encouragement. Whenever we meet on Sunday mornings, at classes, or other church gatherings, our presence and friendship strengthens the family of faith and helps others, as well as ourselves, during some very critical times. The bonds of friendship are particularly important for the spiritual well-being of many folks in our congregation. Worship enables us to draw closer to God; fellowship encourages us to draw closer together.
As each week passes, we are getting closer to the time when a new pastor will be approved and invited to serve the congregation. The vacancy process has intentionally been a long one to enable us to value and support one another as God’s people. We have grown spiritually together throughout this time and have increased our commitment to Christ and one another. Our church has welcomed new people and families, as well as new ministries and ideas. We have built up our faith with hope and love, as well as continually reaching out to the wider community with gifts of acceptance and deeds of compassion. God has blessed us in many ways, so we are almost ready for that approaching day when our new pastor arrives.
This gift of encouragement will also be essential to enable our new minister to settle in. When Evelyn and I came among you at first, we didn’t know what to expect. Your friendship and warm welcome, your support and love have helped us immensely to enjoy our time here. We discovered a whole new body of friends and have felt blessed by your encouragement, humor, and faith.
So, First Presbyterian, keep on doing what you do best – meet together in faith and encourage one another in love.
May God bless you and all your loved ones in Christ Jesus.
Pastor John