Rosa Parks, the "Mother
of the Civil Rights Movement," died this week. She took a risk that led to
the 13-month bus boycott in Montgomery, Alabama, and sparked what became the
civil rights movement. Her courage in staying seated to help a whole
segregated race in society stand tall inspired many to work towards the
vision of justice and equality.
Rosa Parks is a part of our heritage while also pointing to
our hope for the future. Churches also have those figures in their
histories. Perhaps there was a pastor, a board member, or natural leader in
the congregation who took a chance on doing something new for the sake of
the gospel. Hopefully, those of you who've been in the church a long time
can name several such creative and courageous people. Who were they? What
did the do, and why? What was groundbreaking about their approach?
Reflecting on the best past history of First Baptist Church can provide
seeds for the future vision and mission of the church. Inspired by the
example of one (or many) in the great cloud of witnesses, we may continue
in their faith and spirit to be courageous and persistent in living out the
Great Commission and Great Commandment.
In November, we will begin
the process of gathering pledges for 2006, but not only that. This process
calls us to reflect on what the church has meant to the members, what the
church's presence has meant to the community, and what dreams members have
for the future of the church.
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Dr. Martin Luther King had a dream, but more
than that, he and thousands like him put flesh on the dream, offering
themselves as workers in God's hands for the well-being of future
generations. Many members state as a goal "growing the church" or "getting
more people here." But the gospel comes first, and the membership rolls
come behind. We are here to reach the least, the last, and the lost and all
in our community with the saving love of God. So, how do we live the gospel
in this church? If we want "more people here", are we willing to adapt to
the different languages, concerns, styles of faith practice, and post-modern
perspective that those new people would bring with them? What is the
congregation willing to do to translate our love for God and neighbor in a
way that 21st century people will hear and understand? That will mean using
the best of our heritage to shape our future hope, in new and transformed
ministries and practices.
I am grateful for those who had a vision of hosting one
or two families displaced by Hurricane Katrina, and for those who have
spent time preparing the basement space for that possibility. I am
grateful for the leaders who have come forward to try something new on the
various commissions for the cause of Christ. Most of all, I am grateful to
the Holy Spirit's leading and guidance in these ministries. May we bravely
follow!
In Christ's service,
--Angela
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