The life of faith is full of ups and downs. That comes as no surprise to any of us who have follow the way of Jesus. In fact, the Apostle Paul was no stranger to the concept himself. In his encouraging letter to the Philippians, Paul writes: “
… for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need” (4:11b-12).
Many of us can identify with Paul’s words. I can confess that for me this week epitomized the apostle’s testimonial.
I certainly experienced the highs of abundance. The Community Service workday last Saturday was phenomenal! 160 people were present as we fellowshipped and served in a variety of ways. In addition, the Summer Reflection Service was a powerful experience for me. During both events, all in attendance joined in a circle for prayer and worship – it was one of the high watermark moments in my time at Tabernacle to date.
I also experienced the lows of disappointment and heartache. In a very public fashion, we learned about the shocking arrest of one of our members. Upon learning the news, I fell to my knees and prayed in agony for a family whom I love dearly and a community reeling from this awful revelation. I am proud of the way that our community at Tabernacle has responded with strength to ensure the protection of our people and compassion to love those affected (to be clear, the accusations did not involve anyone at Tabernacle Baptist Church or our community apart from the accused himself). All that to say, the lows can be low.
Then, after all of that, I was blessed to be in the right place at the right time as a gentlemen came for pastoral counsel that led to him accepting Christ as his Lord and Savior. What a pleasant and joyous surprise! That’s just the way of faithful discipleship – we ebb and flow from high to low. Yet, all of that emotional movement does not lead to disorder. Rather, through the discernment of the Holy Spirit we can all learn, persevere, and experience joy in all situations. How? Paul says it most clearly as he finished the thought we began a moment ago: “
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
” Christ is the one who creates order out of chaos, purpose out of pain, and balance in the midst of instability. He is our peace, our shalom, our center of balance. On Him we must constantly lean.
As we continue in this long obedience in the same direction that takes us to places both high and low, may we as a congregation draw on the strength of God’s Spirit which both girds us up and binds us together. I love you in Christ, dear reader, and I’m grateful for the reciprocating love that you show me and one another.
Expecting His Best,
Stephen V. Allen
Senior Pastor
