A letter from the Pastor

Welcome to February.

 There are two things prominent in this month: Black History Month and Love (Valentines Day). 

I am thankful for all who have given their lives to promote truth. In a world where truth is relative, there were men and women that stood for truth. A Google search of Seymour Azusa Street will bring up countless articles and videos relating to the revival that lead us to where we are today. It is said when G.T. Haywood received the revelation of Jesus Name baptism that he was told he was in heresy and would never write another song. He said “You are wrong, and began singing “Everybody ought to know who Jesus is.” I think it is important to celebrate our diversity. I am under no delusion that race relations are perfect but I am thankful for how far we have come. We celebrate the contributions of the great men and women of God who have shaped who we are today. 

The second thing is Love. Jesus would say in John 13:35 (KJV) By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. Notice he said IF. Love is a verb. It is action. So my question is: “Is your Love showing?” As we focus on Being The Church, Love is the biggest part. How are we showing God’s Love? We can SAY we love but it is proven through our ACTION. Show love, not just this month but every day of every month. What does this look like? Love is being kind. Love is patience. Love is seeking the best for someone other than yourself. I am using 1 Corinthians 13 if you hadn’t noticed. If you want the definition of Love, read the 13th chapter of 1 Corinthians. As you read verses 4-6 insert your name where love is and see how you measure up. In full transparency, I fall short more than I’d like to admit, but I’m working on it. 

We will be wrapping up our ASK IT series on Wednesday nights. We hope you are enjoying the series and are asking “Is it wise” when making choices in life. The last two lessons are about removing emotions from your decisions and making the decision to ask the question if you are not. 

As we continue our journey through this year, I hope you will embrace that God has called you to be the church. He has called us to show His love to a world who for the most part has a distorted view of love. Love is more than passion. It is more than emotion. While these are a part of Love, Love is a decision. Every day I decide how I will treat people. I decide if I will be rude or kind, short or understanding, impatient or patient. Choose Love. 

Know that we love you here at AFT. Check out the calendar for upcoming events. We are excited to have Marcus Reed with us for our Youth Rally on February 7 and he will be preaching in the worship service on Sunday the 9th. Make plans to be with us. 

May God Bless you, Pastor David