Use What You Have
“Use What You Have”
“Therefore, my beloved, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, because you know that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”
— 1 Corinthians 15:58
Though blinded by an illness at six weeks of age, hymn writer Fanny Crosby, composer of more than 6,000 gospel songs, never became bitter. A sympathetic preacher once remarked that it was a pity God had not given her sight when He had blessed her with so many other gifts. “Do you know,” she replied, “that if at birth I had been able to make one petition, it would have been that I should be born blind?” “Why?” the minister asked. “Because,” Crosby answered, “when I get to heaven, the first face that shall ever gladden my sight will be that of my Savior.”
Friends, Before I begin this epistle, there are several people I would like to thank.
To Ken Zimmerman, thank you for the many hours spent ensuring that the briskets, pork ribs, and sausage were cooked to perfection. For many years, you have done this as an act of love for both the church and the community.
To Debbie Murley, Sharon Jaresh, and their many volunteers, thank you for decorating and preparing the dining room for the large gathering that attended my retirement celebration.
To Terri Townsend, thank you for putting together the slide presentation featuring pictures that spanned several decades.
I know I am leaving out others, but please know that your efforts are appreciated as well.
To Greta Vitko, Bruce Murray, and Don Landon, thank you for the presentations made to Edna and me. We are honored and humbled by the many expressions of love and affection shown to us. Thank you! ¡Gracias!
As we enter the summer season, many people will be traveling—some near, some far. There will be trips to the beach, family vacations, and countless activities that may interrupt regular worship attendance. In other words, we are entering a different rhythm, a “new normal.”
Yet I am reminded of Paul's words: “Your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” What we do for Christ matters. Every prayer offered, every meal served, every hand extended in kindness, every act of worship, and every expression of hospitality is seen by God and used by Him.
There are now only 30 days remaining in my tenure as pastor of this wonderful church. Six years have come and gone remarkably fast. Church, we must remain faithful to being the church where God has planted us.
Lakeway stands on the edge of growth in our community. Ranch lands will become neighborhoods. New families will move into the area. Some will purchase their first homes; others may build second homes near the lake. Lake Texoma continues to attract people, and those people will eventually discover Lakeway.
When they do, may they find a congregation ready to welcome them with a smile, a handshake, and a genuine spirit of Christian hospitality.
Be excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. The future belongs to God, and God is not finished with Lakeway United Methodist Church.
Blessings from Pottsboro, Pastor Frank