Hi everyone, this is Pastor Abel. I’m not sure you have seen my Facebook post over the last several weeks but I started sharing some of my thoughts about the local church. As a Pastor for over 35 years, I just wanted to share some of things I’ve learned. Here is part one of my Building a Heathy Church post. If any of these thoughts can help you or your local church, please feel free to use them, if not just walk on by. Lol
First, we must understand that the local church is the hope of the world. Why? Because it belongs to Jesus and over time it's the only thing that's really going to last. Our jobs don't last. Some of our relationships won't last. We've learned during this pandemic that our health may not last. But if the Lord doesn't return for a 1000 more years, the church will still be here. Because of that, you have to know Pastor that your ministry matters. So don't ever give up! It's not how you start the game that matters it's how you finish! Instead of giving up, ask Jesus to renew you spirit and give you a new vision for the next part of your life. Don't give up!!! Ever...
Second, hopelessness is flowing in our world, brokenness is seen everywhere. I recently read an article that the number of people who have died from suicide in California has now surpassed the number of people who have died from Covid-19. That is a tragedy. Our message is needed more than ever, that Jesus offers hope to anyone who comes to him. As church leaders we have been given the message of hope to share. Our past can be forgiven, we were made for a purpose, Jesus will walk with us every day through the good times and the bad, and God promises us a home in heaven because of what Jesus did for us on the cross. When we look at people, we need to see them the way Jesus sees them. Ask God to help you with this, and to help you to share this message of hope. Who do you need to share this with?
Third, missions is not something we hand off to other people. For years people have given generously to help missions and mission causes and for that I say thank you. But followers of Jesus have to do more than just give financially, we must go and be the church on mission. The local church should be involved in missions. Local and global. Think about 5 ways you can be a local and global Christian on mission. Start doing one of those things by the end of October.
Forth, the local church should start new things, not outsource it. What I mean by this is we need to look for new ways to be creative in reaching out to people. Remember that we are made in the image of God, and if that's true (which it is), then we have been made to be creative with what He has given us. For me, I think smaller churches have the opportunity to change quicker than bigger churches. So ask yourself, what do we need to change in our church that will help us be more effective? Write out a list of 10 things, then start with the easiest thing to change first. Then slowly and steadily go down the remaining things on your list from easiest to hardest. Once you get little wins, the bigger ones will fall in place trust me.
If I can come along side of you and encourage you in any way, please let me know. We as an association would love to be of service to you.
Pastor Abel Galvan
Church Health Strategist
OCSBA
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