I’m going to have 2 weekly e-news this week – one connected to the world we live in – one connected to Forum and what God is doing. For those of you who attend regularly, you know that this is the first time I’ve done this. If you are new to Forum, don’t worry, I won’t over saturate your inbox.

We live in complex times. This email arises because I’ve had a heightened “angst” being expressed both in conversations and in emails I’m receiving. What I know about the span of history is while our technology and invention continue to accelerate – who we are as humans and our nature remains the same. As a nation we are facing unparalleled changes and challenges:

• The way our health care systems are administered (just for your own sake, I would encourage you to stay abreast of this national debate and contact our elected officials via their websites. Also, track “HR3200” in that – in theory – legislation will be passed over the next two weeks)
• Mounting debt within our nation
• Another mounting military buildup in Afghanistan
• Natural disasters
• The possibility of a nuclear Iran

This list could go on and on connected to our nation and the world. But here’s the real deal – this world, my friends, is not our home. That doesn’t mean we turn our backs on the world. It doesn’t mean we cloister. It doesn’t mean we retreat. It means just the opposite.

Friends, you are part of an unshakeable kingdom. You are a citizen of heaven. God called you, He justified you. He demonstrates His glory in your life. You walk in His victory every day of your life. While there are challenges, guess what; there have always been challenges (Christians tortured, the plague, the collapse of currency – e.g. – Confederate money, etc.). Yet, the world continues to turn and God’s mission for the church doesn’t change.

The words of Jesus apply the same today as they did when he spoke them to his disciples, “Let not your hearts be troubled, you believe in God, believe also in me. In my father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.” (John 14: 1-2)

Friends – be hopeful, diligent, alert, vigilant, faithful, holy, righteous, and walk in the triumph of Jesus Christ. We (the church) are the hope of the world! — Scott