March 3, 2013

22 years ago today we launched SunRise United Methodist Church in a Knights of Columbus hall in Dardenne Prairie, Missouri, just west of O’Fallon. 240 people came to that historic first worship service. This morning in an elementary school just west of here The Foundry has its launch. Richard Fine has been under appointment for 14 months to develop this congregation. A very good card was in our mail this week inviting us to this launch. I am praying that it goes well. At Wesley, in its 49^th year as a church we will celebrate Holy Communion, teach about salvation by faith, and nurture 1000 people in their spiritual and physical lives.

Galatians 3

“But before faith came, we were kept in custody under the law, being shut up to the faith which was later to be revealed. Therefore the Law has become our tutor to lead us to Christ, that we may be justified by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor. For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise.” (Verse 23-29)

Yes! The law, as our tutor has led us to Christ, that we may be justified by faith! This morning I will preach the good news about salvation by faith. I know that the law has led me to Christ, painfully teaching me that on my own I cannot please God, and that justification for Bruce Baxter must come by faith.

Most Holy Lord, pour out your Spirit on your servant, as I seek to preach by faith, on faith, that those who hear through faith might deepen and expand their walk with You.