John the Baptist arrived on the scene in the most peculiar of ways.  Out in the wilderness, dressed in camel’s hair, eating locusts and wild honey, and proclaiming a bold message, Luke 3:3 “Proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.” The people began flocking to him from every walk of life:  common people, tax collectors, Roman Soldiers, and even some of the religious leaders.

In a world of confusion and instability symbolized by the wilderness where John conducted his ministry, the people flocked to hear a message that gave them direction and called them to change.  John’s message was bold: Luke 3:7–8 “He then said to the crowds who came out to be baptized by him, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? 8 Therefore produce fruit consistent with repentance.”  Not exactly words to produce a strong following, but the people were not deterred. Luke 3:10–11 10 “What then should we do?” the crowds were asking him. 11 He replied to them, “The one who has two shirts must share with someone who has none, and the one who has food must do the same.”

We, too, are living in a world filled with uncertainty.  Many are demonstrating signs of panic in their actions and words. I’ve even heard the word “hysteria” used.  These are times of confusion and instability with no end in sight.  I talked to a friend of mine about how the church should respond to our current situation.  Their response, “People need to continue to hear the message…..People need a sense of community and reminder of hope.”

Brothers and sisters, the best way we can respond to our current situation is to continue to do what we have already been doing.  For those of us who have extra, we need to continue to share with those who don’t have.  Piner Elementary has additional needs for food.  What should we do?  Benevolence needs will increase with the shut down of many businesses. What should we do?  People are panicking, fearful of what may come next and looking for hope.  What should we do?

Our church will continue to do the things we have been committed to doing until we are no longer able to do it.  We will help the needy; we will feed the hungry; and we will preach the Gospel.

What should you do?

Announcements:

Pray for the Deacons and me as we meet tonight and discuss ways to meet the spiritual and physical needs of the people in our church and community. 

Movie night is cancelled.  It appears that theaters are being closed. Movie tickets will be refunded to those who have already paid.  

We want you to know that we are doing everything we can to continue to minister to the needs of our community.  Though we were unable to meet on Sunday, the financial needs of our church remain about the same.  We want to continue to support our mission partners even in these difficult days.  The reality is ministry needs are probably greater during this time of crises.  If you would like to give online visit our website www.pinerbaptist.org, click on the giving tab at the top of the page.  Your donation is secure and will be deposited in the church’s account.

We are collecting the following items to help feed Piner Elementary families during this time.  Bring your items to the church by Wednesday, so that they can be delivered by Friday.  Jody has requested the following items: Canned Soup and Fruit, Spaghetti and Sauce, Mac & Cheese, Boxed Cereal, Peanut Butter & Jelly, and Crackers.