“Moving Forward”

Do you recall the tag line: “Moving Forward?” It was used by one of the most successful automakers in the world. I like this particular tag line because it underscores a fundamental Biblical truth. God has always called His people to be “Moving Forward.”

Remember that Lot's wife (Genesis 19:26) became a pillar of salt because she looked back when she should have been “Moving Forward.”

Remember how Moses had to put up with the people's complaining because they were enduring some hardships in their trek across the desert wilderness. They were constantly looking back when they should have been “Moving Forward.”

Perhaps the most extreme cased of getting stuck in the past is Judas who hanged himself because of his guilt and sin, instead of turning to God for forgiveness.

Seeking and receiving God's forgiveness for our sins is the only way we can genuinely “Move Forward” in life. Judas got stuck in the past. Meanwhile Peter found new welcome in the arms of Jesus. You and I will too.

That is why “Moving Forward” is such a compelling tag-line. To seek God's forgiveness is to “Move Forward” beyond the past to a new future made possible by God's grace, to new opportunities, and ultimately to eternal life in God's heavenly kingdom. There is no standing still in life. It's like trying to stand still in a fast flowing stream. The only way to hold your ground is to “Move Forward” against the current.

What can you do to help St. Paul Lutheran Church - Ashland, Kentucky keep “Moving Forward?”

There is nothing more important for members of St. Paul than to be faithful to their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ by being consistent in their worship attendance, their financial support, and their loving service to God, fellow members, and their neighbors in need.

One other important thing you can do is invite seeking people to attend worship at St. Paul. And there is no better time than Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday to do that. During this month of March, as you grow in God's grace contemplating His love for you through the perfect life, innocent suffering and death, and triumphant resurrection victory of Jesus Christ over sin, death and the devil; think, pray, and invite that special someone to join you on Palm Sunday and Easter in learning more about what God has done and is still doing for our salvation.

You, as members of St. Paul are the best evangelism tools in the world. People who visit St. Paul have told me that they have felt genuine love and welcome in our church. So did Nancy and I when we first came, and it has continued to be our experience these past 20 years. By inviting someone to church with you, you are helping St. Paul to “Moving Forward!”