Facebook reminds me that I’ve been doing the same project for over five years, building a custom car in my garage. I’ve shaped the front and back of it, welded in seams and made body rust and holes disappear. I’ve added Cadillac taillights, built an engine and transmission, and installed them. The interior is complete with rebuilt seats, painted dashboard, and new carpet. Five years! This car is built using a little steel, and a little glass but mostly this car is being built out of effort.
I have been discouraged countless times in the process of building this car. I want this car, I’m proud of this car, but sometimes…. it just takes so much effort. Not everybody understands what I’m doing. Some people look at this 1950’s car and ask if the effort is worth it. People are always reminding me of how far I still have to go. Some people get it. These people cheer me on. My family thinks this is a fun project. But not everybody does. That’s OK I understand. Sometimes it isn’t fun for me either. I have found myself at car dealerships staring at something shiny and new, something that I could drive today. It would seem discouragement comes easier than progress.
Discouragement is a reality in this world it seems. Discouragement is something that affects everyone. Do you remember a time when discouragement touched your life?
Nehemiah knew tremendous discouragement. He had discouragement from all over the place. If you would like to learn how he dealt with discouragement and perhaps learn a few practical skills for yourself, I hope you’ll join us this Sunday as we continue in our series “Life on mission.” See you there!
Pastor Peter
Vision Gatherings
Join us this spring, April 10 and 29, as we discuss the vision that God has given us as a church. Sign up for an evening or breakfast Vision Gathering with Pastor Kirk. Find out how you can be a part of what God is doing in and through Living Hope. Visit mylivinghope.ca/visiongatherings to sign up.
Good Friday Service
Join us on Friday, April 14th at 10:30 am for our Good Friday Service. We will worship together in song and thank God for the necessary endings and new beginnings that are found in Jesus’ death and resurrection.
Upcoming Events
- April 2, Baptism Seminar
- April 7. 50+ Supper
- April 10, Vision Gathering
- April 14, Good Friday Service
- April 16, Baptism Sunday
- April 16, Easter Sunday
- April 20, Elders in Training
- April 28-30, Quiz Meet – Offsite
- April 29, Vision Gathering
