Happy Thursday FPC Fresno,
Did you enjoy hearing from Peter Mutabazi this past Sunday? His story is powerful. His commitment to adopt and foster children in response to Jesus’s love has changed many lives. It comes out of a place of obedience and surrender to Jesus. We are so grateful to partner with World Vision and for all the ways God is at work through child sponsorship. The idea that a monthly gift can have a substantial impact on the lives of others across the world is pretty incredible and humbling. Pastor Jeremy has sent a few exciting updates from his time in Ethiopia this week as children get to choose their sponsor. For once, they finally get to make a decision that will have a lasting impact on their lives and their community. There is hope and dignity being restored. There is a lot of change that will come from the additional 49 children sponsored by First Presbyterian Fresno. Imagine what God is going to do through this surrender of resources. Stewarding well what has been given to us is an important part of discipleship.
This type of stewardship feels rather personal these days. Many of you know that Aaron and I, as newlyweds, are in the process of merging our lives. Aaron loves student ministry and has invested 12 years serving as a Youth Leader at North Fresno Mennonite Brethren. This week he experienced his last youth group night serving with this community. It was filled with lots of laughter, fun games, a sweet time of worship, reflecting on all God has done in the lives of youth at North Fresno and giving thanks for Aaron’s longevity in youth ministry. The students spoke truth and love over Aaron and prayed for us in this next season. Again, I felt an intense amount of humility and gratitude for all of God’s provision. As a newly married couple who desire to see the next generation know and love Jesus with their whole lives, we are in the midst of praying and discerning how best to steward our gifts, talents and resources to invest in the Kingdom of God.
Faithful stewardship was also reflected at our Rooted High School ministry’s Senior’s Night. Many of the seniors were born and discipled by the First Pres community. They have spent many nights connecting with adult leaders and peers who love them deeply. They have experienced the power and compassion of Jesus. They have invited others to come alongside them to experience God’s grace. Discipleship of the next generation is another way of stewarding well our gifts and passions.
This Sunday we get to celebrate Pentecost together as a church community. Remember to wear the color red & I invite you to read Acts 2 for a refresher. We respond to God’s gift of the Holy Spirit being poured out on all believers. Jesus reconciled relationships with his death and resurrection, and the work of reconciliation continues through the Holy Spirit. God’s truth, love, and mission are not bound by geography, time, or relevance. The Holy Spirit is empowering all believers to do God’s mission. God is alive and at work at this very moment. We are reminded again of God’s faithful provision as he poured out the Holy Spirit on the disciples. We are called to steward the gift of the Holy Spirit today and everyday. How might Jesus desire to lead us in discipleship as we steward all He has lavished on us?
Blessings,
Pastor Meagan
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