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 Midnight Cry MessengerVolume LIII: Number 1 -- January-February-March, 2008Left: Great fellowship mailing the MCM!
Editor's LetterDear Saints, Greetings to all in the wonderful name of Jesus! We are rejoicing in the faithfulness of our Lord in continuing to bless and meet with us. We are seeing a steady rise in spiritual hunger and growth. Of course, we know that such things originate, not with us, but with God. He is the great Initiator of all things eternal. It is our place to respond. To Him be the glory. Many times in the Lord's work it is very tempting to be impatient and even negative. We see so many needs and visible signs of progress are far fewer than we would like. We are tempted to be discouraged or, even worse, to look for "shortcuts." We hear of others who seem to be prospering and growing while we plod along. Then someone comes along with the latest religious fad, proclaiming it to be the answer to church growth and spiritual prosperity. The religious scene is awash with innovations in the way churches are organized and run, with the way the gospel is "packaged" and presented, with programs, discipling schemes, church growth models and the like. In too many cases gospel work seems to differ little from commercial marketing and business. I am more convinced than ever that God's true remnant in this hour need to get "back to the basics" of New Testament Christianity. I believe the Lord is a most willing teacher of all who will seek Him. After all, who are we trying to please? Do we want a mere show in the flesh or results that are eternal? My mind has often gone in recent days to a scripture in Mark 4:26-29 where Jesus said, "This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. All by itself the soil produces grain -- first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head. As soon as the grain is ripe, he puts the sickle to it, because the harvest has come." I believe that many times when we think nothing is happening, that is the time when real progress is being made. Our job is basically a simple one: faithfully sow good seed and pray. People don't need denominational doctrines and traditions or the latest theological innovations and experiences. They need the simple anointed Word of God backed up by prayer. The Lord knows what His people need. The work of His kingdom cries out for servants who will resist clever innovations of religion, patiently sow good seed, and let God give the increase. Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain. I want to be part of that which is built upon a rock because the storm is coming. Four of our brethren, one from each assembly, had a wonderful opportunity recently to travel to the state of Arizona and hold some meetings in the Arizona State prison system. They were most graciously received and helped by the chaplains involved. Based on all reports the Lord was in this effort and He blessed. I know that our men were greatly touched. They met a number of brothers and had wonderful fellowship with them. The circumstances of life may have put them behind bars but God loves them as much as loves anyone. I believe also that the Lord touched others who did not yet know Him. We pray for these men and trust that God's love will be made more and more real. Once again our June Convention is getting closer and closer. We anticipate folks from a number of states and even from overseas. Pray for this meeting. Consider attending if the Lord makes a way. If you need information just check the website or call 1-800-273-2020. And now until next issue, may God richly bless you. Your brother in Christ, |
