Pastor Jeremy Eastman shares a powerful message about moving into a new season of faith, emphasizing the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit, serving with a willing heart, and actively participating in the Great Commission to spread God's love and grace.
Good morning and welcome to The Chapel! Today marks a significant moment as we transition into a new season of faith and service. With a resounding "yes" in our hearts and praise on our tongues, we are ready to embark on this journey, giving all glory to God.
As we prepare for this new season, it is crucial to gather our resources and get our lives in order. If you need rest, take it now, for when God says to go, we will be running. We are at the starting line, ready to board the train of His purpose. God has been preparing us for this moment, laying a vision on the hearts of many in our community. What is coming is unmatched and will be entirely for His glory.
This journey requires a family effort. I want to acknowledge those who serve tirelessly, from cooking breakfast to organizing events. It takes a community to fulfill God's calling. We must all ask ourselves, "What can I do for the Lord?" and step into that role with a servant's heart. God has called us to be active participants in His mission, making disciples of all nations.
As we move forward, it is essential to understand our identity as children of God. The name change to The Chapel signifies our commitment to this identity. We must know who we are and what we are called to do. God is not just adding to our numbers; He is multiplying His work through us.
To impact our community, we must be filled with the Holy Spirit. Everyone on this planet needs the light of Christ, and we are carriers of that light. We must strip away our fleshly desires and confusion to hear from Him. God is trying to pour out His Spirit, but we must choose to receive it and steward it well. We cannot give what we do not have; therefore, we must be filled to overflow.
We are called to fulfill the Great Commission: to go and make disciples of all nations. This is not just about increasing numbers; it is about transforming lives. When we receive Christ, our lives are changed, and we are called to share that transformation with others. We must be willing to dispense what God has given us to those around us.
In John 1:14-16, we learn that the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. God took the first step to dispense Himself into our world, and we must receive His grace upon grace. This relationship with Him is not meant to be rare; it should be a daily experience. We must engage with Him, allowing His presence to fill us.
Ephesians 3:2 reminds us of the stewardship of God's grace. We are entrusted with His blessings and must share them with others. Our role is to receive His grace and then dispense it to those in need. This is how we fulfill our calling and bring glory to God.
In Acts 3:4-10, we see the story of Peter and John healing a beggar. They did not have silver or gold, but they offered what they had: the power of Jesus. This act of faith not only healed the man but also drew attention to God's glory. When we step out in faith, we can expect to see God move in powerful ways.
As we embrace this new season, let us remember that the name "Spencer" means steward or dispenser. We are called to dispense God's love and grace to our community. We must be willing to receive His blessings and share them with others. God is ready to pour out His Spirit and set people free in this region. Are we ready to receive and act? Let us step forward with joy, knowing that we are part of something greater than ourselves.
Let us pray for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit in our lives, asking Him to fill us up so we can dispense His love and grace to the world around us. Amen.
