October 2007

“We Set Sail!”

Acts 13:1-5
Among the prophets and teachers of the church at Antioch of Syria were Barnabas, Simeon (called "the black man"), Lucius (from Cyrene), Manaen (the childhood companion of King Herod Antipas), and Saul.

One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Dedicate Barnabas and Saul for the special work I have for them."

So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way.

Sent out by the Holy Spirit, Saul and Barnabas went down to the seaport of Seleucia and then sailed for the island of Cyprus.

There, in the town of Salamis, they went to the Jewish synagogues and preached the word of God. (John Mark went with them as their assistant.)

In the book of Acts we read the exciting story of the beginning of the spread of the gospel to the World. Luke writes about two men who were set apart to work and travel together. The text says the Holy Spirit identified Saul and Barnabas as the two who were given special work. In those days the airplanes had all been grounded so they traveled by ship. The excitement must have been great as they sailed off to Cyprus to share Christ together for the first time.

This month, I have the same excitement as Nathan Hillman and I set sail together in ministry for the first time. This past month Nathan has accepted the call to serve as Director of Family and Youth Ministries here at Community Covenant. Nathan and Rebecca Hillman applied for the job while still in China teaching English. So their adventure started on the other side of the globe.

I look forward to partnering with Nathan and this congregation. I want to build a strong team as we seek to bring people to Jesus Christ and disciple them. So as Nathan and I set sail, I would ask you to help us in three ways.

1) Pray - As Nathan and Rebecca settle, they need your prayers to supply God's strength. With a new church, new town, new people, new everything, there are many adjustments to make. If that isn't enough, he has to begin working with me. God has called us together at this time. Pray for God's blessing on us as we work for His kingdom.

2) Join in - As we look to our world, we see the needs. God has called us all to be a part of the team. Ask God to show you where he wants you to serve and get started. If you are not sure, ask Nathan where the greatest needs are in our youth and family ministries.

3) Encourage - You are a great encouraging church to me. I ask that during this month you creatively encourage Nathan and Rebecca . Have fun welcoming them in Christ's love. On Sunday, October 21st, we will have a special welcome service to lay on hands as we set sail. Welcome Nathan and Rebecca!

Pastor Craig