Small in Number, Large in Spirit
Author: Mark Alan Carter (Texas, USA)
Our church was experiencing a slow, steady decline.
The older members had died or were in poor health and unable to attend, and we were not attracting many younger members.
Consequently, we decided that even though our worship service was good, we needed to get our message to people outside our church.
We started an outreach programme using both words and actions.
Several church members wrote a column in our local weekly paper, sharing their personal stories of challenge.
They revealed the way our church had brought them closer to God and increased their faith. These members also volunteered their time to help at the local Meals On Wheels centre, our community food bank, and other community aid organisations.
Leading by example we could show, rather than just speak about, our faith.
This programme started over a year ago. And while our weekly attendance is still small, it is increasing.
Best of all, the new members contribute to our outreach attempts too, which helps us to expand our ministry.
One member at a time, we are using our efforts not only to spread God’s word, but also to do his work.
Prayer: Dear Lord, even though sometimes we are small in number, with you we are large in spirit. Give us the faith to lead by example, and help us to share our faith with others. Amen
