Vann's Vignettes

Going to the next level: What does that mean for PABA? There could be various answers to this question. One answer that we usually rush to is expansion in our numbers, people, resources, baptisms, contributions, and member churches. These factors are important but not the key motivator for us to consider in thinking about going to the next level. There are currently in my mind and heart, two factors on which we should concentrate and pray: 1. Unity (cohesiveness, koinonia, encouragement and support of one another (John 13:35); and 2. Richness of true discipleship which leads to making more disciples for Christ. It is obvious that these two go strongly together, interwoven with each other in a public display of the power of the Resurrected Jesus within our Association (Ecclesiastes 4:12) which binds our hearts and essence together in a chord of more than three. The strength and fortitude to stand against the wiles of this world, evil, demonic activity, and even self and Satan are found in this braided rope. We need each other. Should we be able to accomplish these two factors we would indeed be on another level as an association of churches. I realize that it is often a sacrifice to attend meetings, participate with each other in furthering the kingdom of God in our region, contribute with our resources to our cooperative efforts, give of ourselves and our time, but how great our rewards will be in heaven!  We serve a wonderful and powerful God who cares for each of us, individually and corporately in our churches, provides for our needs and increases the "borders of our tents" (Isaiah 54:2)! How much more could He do if we were cohesive, working together? This to me is going to the next level in spiritual abundance for all of us, large and small!