To Congregants and Friends of FBC,
In reflecting upon an encouragement message to you, I decided to use my experience from this week with the “Radio2Women” talk show. I was invited by the hosts to offer comments on a piece I submitted to the Berkshire Eagle in the summer of 2018, titled: Linguistics of Humanity: How Words Heal and How They Hurt. The radio hosts believed that in discussing this piece, from almost two years ago, it would be beneficial to the public because it remains relevant during this COVID-19 period, along with racist events that remain pandemic in our country, and the world at large. I must admit, I was excited to talk about the piece, but more importantly, I thought it would allow for a deeper discussion about how we as human-beings do not always think about what comes out of our mouths, whether verbally or via social media. We must be intentional with our words…whether we are making an argument for or against an issue. As Christians, we must speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), emphasis on “truth.”
So, with that, what has been your truth during these current events? How have you used your words to encourage people, to stand up for people, to engage people on behalf of God’s justice through you? How are you encouraging yourself with words? Not with negative words, but with encouraging words that say, “My hope is built on Jesus’ name…. all other grounds are sinking sand.” And through that belief and hope, you take action with Jesus at your side.
In their thank you note to me, the hosts closing words were:
“We thank you, for leading us down a path filled with awareness and the courage to speak up! I am going to pass your message on to my grandchildren, in the hope that they will know how to navigate in this complex world we all now live in.”
As a disciple of Christ, I hope you use your positive words to lead others toward an awareness.
I am concluding again with, “We will be rejoicing and praising together soon.” Psalm 150 says, “Praise the Lord! Praise God in His sanctuary; praise Him in His mighty firmament! Praise Him for His mighty deeds; praise Him according to His surpassing greatness!”
I hope you continue to watch the FBC service during our virtual Sunday morning worship. This coming Sunday, June 28th, at 10am, tune into PCTV – 1301. If you live in South County, it is broadcast at 9am on channel 1301 CTSB (Community Television for Southern Berkshires). And there’s always the FBC Facebook Live Stream (First Baptist Church of Pittsfield, MA)!
In God’s Love,
Pastor Sheila