Grow, Give, Serve...

Throughout the Gospel, it is clear that Jesus expects those who wish to follow him to become one of his disciples – to bear the cross with him – to go beyond just wearing a uniform to actually getting in the game. Together, let’s make 2012 the year we take our relationship with God through Christ to the next level. The opportunities and commitments offered by First UMC are varied, but the reason to accept the challenge this year is the same for all. It is so, as Jesus said, “My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples.” (John 15:8) But this is not just about how to bear fruit as a church through some new “program” or just about how much money you give to the church. It is more about how you can bear fruit as a believer in Jesus as a way of life. In other words, as Christians, we are called to Grow, Give, and Serve because of Jesus Christ.

 

Start by praying and thinking about how you can more fully become a disciple of Jesus Christ in 2012 and fill out a commitment card that will be mailed to every member.  If you do not get yours, they are available in the church office. If you have children, you will also be asked to indicate where you are willing to help them grow, give and serve. Youth 7^th grade and older will need to make their own commitment. Then bring the card with you to church on Sunday, February 26 in the special "Give, Grow, Serve" envelope. If you cannot be in church on that particular Sunday, just bring it with you the next time you come. Discipleship is something that just can’t be mailed in. Let’s make 2012 the year we start on a journey together to bear fruit that glorifies God and reveals to the world the reality of Jesus one relationship at a time.