A message from Pastor Ron...
“ Never deprive someone of hope; it might be all they have.”--H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
There was a time when the American public had this concept of the average or ideal neighborhood in America:
White picket fences, manicured lawns, and two cars in the garage
That“ Leave it to Beaver” concept is certainly no longer the primary perception of the average American neighborhood. Today in any given neighborhood with 100 average neighbors, 7 % will be struggling with depression( some will consider suicide); 14 % will feel crippled or trapped by fear and anxiety; 7 % will abuse or are addicted to drugs or alcohol; 8 % struggle with the loss of a job; 3 % are grieving the death of a loved one; and 60 % either don’ t have any relationship or have a less than vibrant relationship with Jesus Christ *(* Billy Graham Evangelistic Association – BGEA). What a time of hopelessness in our nation. Billy Graham said,“ I feel a deep burden for so many Americans who live with no lasting hope.”
Dr. Graham wanted to do something in response to this burden on his heart and directed the BGEA to develop a nation-wide response. My Hope America is the result. The campaign coincides with the 95 th birthday of Dr. Graham who has given hope to millions over the years. The campaign culminates in November with a special message of hope from Dr. Graham.
The My Hope Campaign is perfectly consistent with our vision, mission and core values here at UCUMC. Therefore, we feel a natural fit with our hearts and the heart of Dr. Graham and the BGEA. We also feel that God is calling UCUMC to join the BGEA efforts to bring Hope in 2013 to as many people as possible.
The My Hope Campaign is built around Matthew the tax-collector who became a disciple of Christ. Matthew invited everyone he could into his home to tell them of the Hope he had come to know. Like Matthew in the first century, we will be“ Matthews” in the 21 st century to people in our communities so that they can come to know the hope that is in Jesus Christ.
This is going to be an exciting and fun experience for our church and a blessing to those who choose to become“ Matthews” to the people they know and work with. But most of all, it will help bring Hope to so many who have no lasting hope. We will train you how to do it and it is so easy to do.
Be open to and prayerful for this opportunity for you and our church to“ go and make disciples” and give hope to everyone we can. The key is in“ looking.” We will teach you the five“ looks.” Training begins on May 15 th at 6 p. m. Mark your calendar!
One of the greatest things you may ever do is become a“ Matthew” and change the everyday life and eternal life of someone you know. That person will thank you for all eternity and our Lord can say to you when you meet him face to face:“ Well done my good and faithful servant.”
Ron Smith, Senior Pastor rsmith @ ucumc. org, 704-369-8005