Dear Torrance First UMC Family,
How does getting motivated make a change in our lives? With the upcoming November elections, we are able to see so many people getting excited and enthusiastic about expressing their political views. I’ve never seen people that motivated by their political beliefs. I guess motivation is the key that helps us move forward. Do we see that level of motivation in our faith? As we all know, once you get motivated, your actions change and become more proactive to reflect that motivation.
In the Book of Joshua, Chapter 4, after crossing the Jordan River, the lsraelites receive very special instructions from God. God told the Israelites to select twelve men, one from each tribe, to go back to the Jordan River and bring twelve stones to build a monument in Gilgal. There is a specific purpose in this instruction for the next generation, which teaches them about God helping their ancestors to get out of Egypt and cross the wilderness and the Jordan River. Their journey did not end at the River of Jordan, however, setting up the stones symbolized the continual faith journey with God.
This month of October, we are celebrating a very important milestone in our church history. It’s the centennial—100 years of our church history we are celebrating! With this important milestone, we need to think about what kind of stones we are setting up and for what purpose. With the setting up of this special stone in our church history, are we considering our future and the next chapter of our church?
Celebrating 100 years is not the end; rather, it should be the turning point in which we move forward and expand the kingdom of God. As we are celebrating this special moment, let’s ask ourselves what really motivated us to set up this special stone. My Torrance First family, love and hope should be our motivation in this important turning point. Beyond this milestone, we will continue to follow amazing God’s plan and guidance for us. Let’s celebrate together—not just in October, but in the many months and years ahead. Let’s invite all friends and neighbors as we continue to celebrate this important milestone!
May God bless you and keep you.
Pastor Jacob