Fall is a Time To Renew

What are you passionate about? We’re all passionate about something. We might have a passion for gardening, for sports or even eating (not to be confused with cook- ing which isn’t always as much fun). Amidst all our passions, there are also those es- sential passions that shape us into whole and genuine people. Like passion for the common good, for justice and mercy and the way of love. Passion is about being fully alive to life and living with enthusiasm and expectancy. It’s about investing ourselves in the things that really matter.

“For the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When she finds one of great value, she went away and sold everything she had a bought it.” –Jesus

I want to be what Jesus is talking about, don’t you? I want the feeling that goes with giving my best for something worthwhile. Here at Central Church we are passionate and this congregation is growing with enthusiasm for the things that matter most. For example: Did you know that over 500 people came into our building during the Cherry Festival Parades this summer to use the restrooms, sit for a moment and get a cold drink? Why? Because we have a group of servants here who are passionate about radical hospitality! Or what about the many volunteers who made Vacation Bible School fun and meaningful for 130 children who attended. Passionate ministry is happening.

Fall is a time to renew a passion for the things that matter most and bless us the best. I am so excited about this new season. The new grow groups we’re starting; the energetic children and youth ministry programming that will resume; the stirring worship of three different services offering inspiration and connection to God and others; opportunities to make a difference through caring service; all this speaks of passion for the way of Christ.

What do you long to be passionate about? What will you risk to have that? As Jesus showed us, the Kingdom of Heaven is waiting to be found.

See you under the dome on September 11th when we begin a new sermon series: Passionate People, Generous Church.” Come and be a part of a difference-making congregation!

Pastor Dale