Temple Baptist Life

Our youth Sunday school class has been studying in the book of Revelation. You may recall that the book begins with a vision that John has in which Jesus gives seven specific messages to seven churches. In each message Jesus acknowledges the positive deeds and rebukes the negative aspects in each church. He states “He who has an ear let him hear what the spirit says to the churches.”

This has really stayed on my mind for several months now. If Jesus gave a letter to Temple Baptist Church today, what might it say? What would He be pleased with? What would be a disappointment to Him?

As I continue to ponder these questions, I have to say I don’t have all the answers (to my wife’s surprise I’m sure). There is one thing that is extremely obvious to me though. Our church is really filled with ordinary people, but with the spirit of God, have done some extraordinary things. Truly our church has been a beacon for Gods light to shine in the community of Salida.

I know Pastor Ray would not take credit but God has blessed us with Rays Sunday messages, bible teachings and leadership. I have yet to hear anyone deliver a message better than Ray. Week in and week out God speaks through Ray right to my heart. Yours too? Thank God. And thank Ray also.

Consider how our church has touched this community by different ages. We have had a hand with the Salida Pregnancy Center before a child is even born. Helping pregnant mothers with choices, as well as every day needs. The Salida Christian Schools have touched thousands of young lives throughout the years. From early child care and elementary education that is rivaled by none. How many seeds have been planted there over the years? Vacation Bible School has saved how many souls? Our youth group touches many young lives. Recently we have had many programs to help families and adults with the daily struggles of life. Sunday school classes to be better parents, five love languages to be better spouses and Financial Peace University to be smarter with the riches God has given us. We have begun a new senior program for fellowship and activities. We have helped minister to those in the nursing home and shut ins. I know Jesus would be smiling from these.

In so many other ways our church has blessed this community. Collecting food for Caring and Sharing, the Farm to Table program, and the community gas buy down. The Ladies group through women at the well, the music ministry with its seasonal programs, the many professional music groups to perform here all emit Gods love.

Our church has helped start new churches in the area, maintain Ponderosa Christian Camp, and support several missionary programs. We have recently begun to broadcast Sunday Sermons by radio throughout the county to spread the truth of God.

With all that I mention here it’s just a portion of the many things that our church does. There are also countless ways that we as individuals have shared Gods light.

I’m sure Jesus would be extremely pleased with so much of what we have done. I am also sure that we as a church are not perfect and He would rebuke us for many other things. I do pray that if God is leading you to serve in any capacity that you have the courage to follow Him. I also hope that you take time to ponder what that letter might say to Temple Baptist Church.