We like this picture a lot. We feel that it does a very good job of showing what the answers are to some extremely important questions for our church. How does a picture of a cross in front of a window do that? Here's how we see it:
Who are we? We are sinners that have been redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ shed on a cross 2,000 years ago. He gave up his life for our sake. This means we are accepted, valued and loved by God beyond measure. When God looks at us, He sees his very own children. That is who we are! (1 John 3:1)
What are we up to? As God the Father sent his Son into the world, Jesus has now sent us outside the walls of our church building on a mission to share the Good News of all He has done with as many people as possible. We know that we are in this community for a reason and with a specific purpose: To be His witnesses, to love our neighbors and make a difference for God's kingdom as it comes "on earth as it is in heaven." (Matthew 6:10)
Why do we do what we do? Our motivation is love. Having received and experienced the Good News of the grace and mercy that comes from Jesus, how could we not extend that same Good News of grace and mercy to others? Our desire is simply to give to others of all that God has given to us, to bless our community out of all the ways we have been blessed, and to love because He first loved us. (1 John 4:19)
Loved by God in Jesus. Saved by his death on the cross.
Made his very own children. Strengthened by the Holy Spirit.
Sent out on a mission. Share the Good News! (Acts 1:8)
