Spreading the Good News in Every Imaginable Way
There’s nothing quite like creative new ideas to help spread the Good News of the Gospel and other passages of Scripture.
Just last month Elizabeth Feldman and Natalie Bunt tidied up the library and came across a surplus of Bibles that were in excellent condition. Elizabeth suggested that we put some in the pantry and distribute others at the Thursday evening Meals Together at the Methodist Church in Downtown Wooster.
What a great idea!
Many of the potential recipients have never held a Bible, much less taken the time to read one, but by making them easily accessible, these individuals will have an opportunity to open the book to a transformational new journey.
After the first night that they were on display, a volunteer in the Meals Together program gathered up the Bibles that remained and took them over to the Wayne County Justice Center, where they will be distributed to those who were incarcerated.
In total, we had about 15 Bibles to donate. Now, instead of gathering dust, mold, and mildew, these Bibles will be placed in the hands of those who are inquiring about their faith journey or actively seeking the Lord.
This might not be considered a miracle, but is certain is a magnanimous development. This simple gesture of goodwill will open a new horizon — one that many have never experienced in their lifetime.
Jesus was very outspoken about the importance of spreading the Good News, and he addressed the subject often in the Gospels. For example, in Mark 16:15, he said, “Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation.” Similarly in Matthew 28:19, he encouraged the disciples to “go and make disciples of all nations.”
In II Timothy 4:2, we are encouraged to be vocal about our faith with this proclamation: “Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage — with great patience and careful instruction.”
We are, indeed, called on to actively share the Word of God and, when necessary, to both “rebuke and encourage,” but to do so patiently and carefully, so as not to overwhelm or intimidate those who may be hearing the Word for the first time.
The Word of God is so much more than an assemblage of letters on a page. It is, as stated in Hebrews 4:12, “living and active. Sharper than any double — edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
There is great power in the Word, but also great comfort. It is both a blessing and a soothing elixir, worthy to be shared with all people.
So, as a church, let us continue to do exactly that — to demonstrate our faith, show our compassion, and share the Word so that others may one day hear, see, and believe.
Until We Meet Again, Be Blessed! – Pastor John