Whenever newcomers check out a church, virtually all are asking some form of the same question: “Is there a place for me?” And for years our short answer at Ingleside has been, “Yes!” Our answer reflects the spirit of Romans 15:7, which says: “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God” (ESV). Of course, the specific questions newcomers may ask are often more detailed, nuanced, and personalized. Consider these possibilities: ...
Not many churches and pastors – the data suggests fewer than 3.5% -- have the privilege of doing what we have done over the past few days as we have marked a 30-year ministry milestone together. As Beverly and I reflect on this three-decade journey and the celebration of the last week, our hearts are filled to overflowing with gratitude. We are eager to say with the Psalmist that the Lord has “dealt bountifully” with us (Psalm 13:6, ESV). We know that from start to finish it is...
“About six years.” That’s how long the experts say that pastors and churches typically stick together in the United States these days (thomrainer.com; March 15, 2017). And it’s one reason why this Sunday, September 8, it seems fitting for our church family to celebrate. We’ll give thanks that, by God’s grace and for God’s glory, we have walked this ministry journey together for 30 years. We will remember God’s providence in bringing our lives together, we will...
As the calendar flips into September and school-schedule rhythms are getting firmly in place, I want to make sure that some key dates and events at Ingleside are on your radar. Of course, our weekly worship services, classes, and groups – especially on Sundays and Wednesdays – continue to be at the heart of our disciple-making process. In addition, however, please put these opportunities on your calendar now: Wednesday, September 18 BIG Wednesday, Worship Center 6:30...
Have you thought much about how significant growth and transformation occur? I have. Words often attributed to Samuel Smiles (1812-1904) state the proven process succinctly: Sow a thought, and you reap an act; Sow an act, and you reap a habit; Sow a habit, and you reap a character; Sow a character, and you reap a destiny. Sowing and reaping. It’s no accident that the primary metaphor for growth here is an agricultural one. This is often true in Scripture as well (cf....
This Sunday, August 18, we will be recognizing and praying over all the students and educators in each of our Sunday morning services at Ingleside. So, no matter what your grade or degree program, and no matter what your role is as an educator (teacher, administrator, coach, counselor, professor, etc.) – I hope you will make plans now to join us. Services are at 8:30 a.m. in our Chapel (traditional), 9:40 and 11:00 a.m. in our Worship Center (blended), and at 11:00 a.m. in our...
Have you ever left a project incomplete? Walked away from a job because it was too difficult? Been sidetracked by another priority? I think we can all answer “yes” to those questions. Now change the frame. Have you ever cut out early on a work the Lord wanted to do in or through you? Has your spiritual tenacity drained away? Has an outside pressure weakened your witness? Then be encouraged by the words of Paul to the Corinthians, just after explaining to them how important the...
According to the Farmer’s Almanac, the summer season will officially end at 3:50 a.m. on Monday, September 23. However, if your yearly schedule is driven at all by our educational system, you know the book is closing on the summer for many. The temperatures might remain high, but schedules will change nonetheless. This change of rhythm also leads to new opportunities to grow in Christ. I hope you will take note of the kickoffs listed below. Sunday, August 4 Next Generation...
Though we send Inglesiders to go with the gospel throughout the year, the summer affords us several unique mission opportunities. I know you will celebrate with me that the gospel was proclaimed in the following places around the world: Myrtle Beach – Our Student Sessions choir of 49 students and leaders shared the gospel through outdoor concerts and an arts camp held at a local church. Macon – 48 high school students and leaders did gospel-sharing ministry in our city for a...
One of the challenges that face large churches on a weekly basis is providing a welcoming atmosphere to guests. In a church like ours, where 2,000 or so people worship on a Sunday morning, it can be easy for a newcomer to be lost in the shuffle. One of our goals as a church is for guests to feel warmly welcomed from the moment they pull into the parking lot until the moment they drive away. Perhaps a verse from Scripture would connect this practice theologically and put an exclamation...
