In a rapidly changing world, there is no such thing as remaining the same. Like any living organism, we’re either growing or dying, and nowhere is this more significant than in spiritual life.
For Paul, staying at the same level wasn’t an option. Talking about the next-level “resurrection life” Jesus offers, he says “Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 3:13,14).
Paul recognized that God’s call to every believer has a direction – up. In a world that seems to be spiraling downward, God’s people are called upward. God’s “upward call” is an invitation to elevation. It’s a call to embrace the elevated life that only God can give. A life of elevated faith, elevated strength, elevated impact, and elevated joy. You may not see it right now, but life is better at God’s altitude. And even more – it’s possible!
This year we as a church are aiming for higher elevation. And I believe that as God pours out His Spirit, there will be elevated devotion, elevated worship, elevated service, and elevated Kingdom growth.
This month, we’re launching into an intentional emphasis on elevated service to our community, and elevated relationship-building for the Kingdom. By the grace of God, this Church will not be silent. We won’t be confined to a 2 hour block once a week. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we will take the transforming power of the love of Jesus into the hands, homes, and hearts of our neighbors, coworkers, family, and friends.
Here’s where you can help the Church gain altitude:
On Feb 14th, we’re engaging in a “Love Sabbath” service project to serve our community. We intend to be the hands and feet of Jesus as we prepare hygiene packs for our neighbors in need. To do this, we are collecting travel-size personal hygiene items to donate to those in need by February 14th. Please sign up to donate an item. Every bit helps!
There’s another way you can get involved: during this service emphasis, we’re also looking to build intentional relationships with the extended family outside of our church. Over the next 3 months, I’m challenging everyone to identify 3 people in your circle that don’t necessarily come to this church. These could be coworkers, friends, or neighbors. Think of some ways you can serve them. Don’t worry about inviting them to church or giving a Bible study. Maybe that will come later. For now simply meet their needs, and show them that you care. For example, you can try:
- Micro-kindness notes. A sticky note like “Glad you live nearby” or “Thanks for being a great neighbor” goes a long way.
- Share extras. Too many cookies, garden produce, soup you made anyway—abundance builds bridges.
- Errand help. Especially for elderly neighbors, new parents, or people working long hours.
- Crisis meals. Organize a few neighbors to drop food during illness, grief, or newborn chaos.
Your service will make an impact for the Kingdom.
If you were looking for a sign to take your spiritual life, Kingdom impact, and growth to the next level – this is it. If there was ever a time to aim for elevation, it’s right now. This is your moment. It’s elevation season!