Encouraging New Leaders

Christian Commitment
in Today's World

Deuteronomy 3:23-49 (The Message)
 ^23-25 At that same time, I begged God: "God, my Master, you let me in on the beginnings, you let me see your greatness, you let me see your might—what god in Heaven or Earth can do anything like what you've done! Please, let me in also on the endings, let me cross the river and see the good land over the Jordan, the lush hills, the Lebanon mountains."
 ^26-27 But God was still angry with me because of you. He wouldn't listen. He said, "Enough of that. Not another word from you on this. Climb to the top of Mount Pisgah and look around: look west, north, south, east. Take in the land with your own eyes. Take a good look because you're not going to cross this Jordan.
 ²⁸ "Then command Joshua: Give him courage. Give him strength. Single-handed he will lead this people across the river. Single-handed he'll cause them to inherit the land at which you can only look."
 ²⁹ That's why we have stayed in this valley near Beth Peor.

For Reflection

Moses only got a glimpse of the promised land.  However, he got the chance to encourage another to take his place.

Last Sunday I sat in the choir which gives a wonderful perch from which to observe (or conduct surveillance) the congregation.  A lot was happening -- a baptism, announcements of mission trips, gifts to the Gideons, children's sermon, ushers helping others to find seats and conferring in the background, hymns sung, confessions made, prayers offered, assurances given, families enjoying each other's fellowship. I found my self wondering where all these young people came from!

Then as we sang I was There to Hear your Borning Cry, I," not old but no longer young," like Moses, was looking at the future.  I saw a multitude of Joshuas having been encouraged by the faithful taking their proper role to encourage others to sustain the living gospel.  To what extent do you feel the joy of seeing the return of your sustaining support of your church?  Take time to rejoice in it.

Pray for an increase in abiding love for one another in the communities  that make up the Kingdom of God.  Pray for the body of Christ and for the encouraging and steadfast concern and support each member has for another.  Offer thanksgiving for the opportunities to support in times of difficulty and the opportunity to share the rejoices. Encourage through God's grace.