Hey, Centennial,
When was the last time you started a project, then left it unfinished?
If that hits a nerve, I apologize! But it sets up Jesus’ words from the end of Matthew 18, which remind us that our relationships with one another are a crucial “project” God started and asks us to carry through to completion.
Here’s the challenge: the project of being Christ’s body with and for each other can get messy—very messy. And when it does, it’s easy to get discouraged and want to give up.
It’s tempting to let the struggles within relationships become yet another unfinished project in our lives.
But Christ says we can’t let that happen. Instead, he commands us to address conflict directly, to engage with one another in our disagreements, and to lean into the mess. I pray this isn’t a struggle for you right now, yet I know how common it is.
If you have any challenging relationships or relational “projects” that could use attention, I encourage you to make it a priority to join us in worship this Sunday. We’ll explore when, why, and how to engage in conflict in a healthy, redemptive way.
Grace and peace,
Karl
P.S. Don’t miss two great opportunities during November:
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The Two Christmas Trees in the Welcome Center each contain opportunities to bless those in need during the Christmas season. Stop by to learn more. We collect funds and donations during November so the gifts can be ready for December. More info below.
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An Evening of Gratitude, Worship, and Prayer. Sunday November 24th, 6:00-7:00pm at CCC. These special, more intimate worship gatherings always provide encouragement in faith and friendship, and strength for our shared mission. I hope you come!