A church group getting together to write a few letters of advocacy to politicians and business leaders, a few thank-you cards, a few encouraging notes to the missionaries they support?Hey, that's a pretty novel idea. But it sounds kinda' like those P.A.L. Nights that Vital Signs Ministries have doing for over 30 years now, doesn't it?
Well, it should because Faith Bible Church's recent entry into this type of ministry is based on the very same things: the commitment to introduce biblical truth into government and the marketplace; the desire to affect public policy in ways that complement justice and religious freedom; and serving those in the household of faith via encouragement, comfort and the stimulation to love and good deeds.
And, like the P.A.L. Nights of Vital Signs, FBC's evening includes the provision of specific action targets, the appropriate contact information, pens and stationary; coffee and treats; and assistance when necessary. It all makes for a purposeful fellowship, a terrific outreach for a local church or Sunday school class.
For all the earth, I can't imagine why such letter-writing parties are not a common experience for Western Christians. After all, we complain an awful lot about the state of things -- why not take a little time to complain to people who can do something about it AND pass along thanks to those who are!
The specific agenda last night was a concentration on:
1) letters to political figures urging the removal of all tax monies going to promote or provide for abortions (with special attention to ObamaCare and the need to defund the mega-abortion corporation that is Planned Parenthood);
2) letters to officials of the Nebraska State Activities Association protesting the new "transgender policy" that will, among other bizarre things, allow males and females to use common bathrooms and showers;
3) thank-you notes to pro-life officials (with fresh urging that they stay the course and refuse temptations to compromise);
4) Thanksgiving-oriented cards and letters to missionaries and distant friends of Faith Bible Church.
It wasn't a big crowd (about 15 or so) for this particular letter-writing party, the 4th the church has so far sponsored, but those in attendance did a great job. In the 75 minutes we had allotted for the meeting, they produced over 55 cards and letters.
Way to go, FBC! Here's hoping other churches and groups will be moved to follow your lead.
“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven." (Matthew 5: 13-16)
"Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing. But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction, and that you esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Live in peace with one another.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11-13)
(By the way, if you're interested in pursuing such a ministry with your church or even just your family, please contact us at Vital Signs Ministries.)
