But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. 2 Thessalonians 3:3 NIV
Many of you know of the L Street Mission, the outreach to our neighbors without homes hosted at Central UMC in Brockton. In 2015, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Abraham Waya, we joined Pastor Leigh Fuller and Church in the Woods to serve outdoors in downtown Perkins Park and Tent City. As the weather grew colder, the congregation at Central opened the doors for us to meet inside. While hosted by a United Methodist Church, the volunteers come from many denominations, all answering the same call, coming to serve our neighbors with the love of Christ.
Here we are eight years later, and despite Satan trying his best to shut us down by throwing up obstacles–COVID, flood, and a few neighbor complaints. Yet, we continue to open for a few hours each Saturday to bring light into darkness, sharing the gospel, warm food, dry and clean clothing, and basic toiletries.
In Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonians, he closes with this appeal.
As for other matters, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you. And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil people, for not everyone has faith. But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command. May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance. (3:1-5)
Whatever good work the Lord directs you in, expect to face opposition from the evil one. Satan’s desire is for all people to live in despair and hopelessness. Wherever we bring light, Satan will do his best to extinguish that flame of hope; like the big bad wolf, he huffs and puffs and tries to blow our house down. But in our faithfulness to God, in continuing to do the things Christ commands, he erects a brick house around us where we are assured safety and security. Satan can turn blue from blowing, but he’ll never prevail against God.
God, thank you for your protection and the strength you give us to do your work. Help us not to grow discouraged but to continue in faithfulness to do what you have commanded. Continue to direct our hearts by your love and the perseverance of Christ. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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