From The Desk of Pastor Matt

Luke 18 tells a brief story about Jesus minding his own business, when suddenly, people start bringing their babies and children to him. I don’t know if he was expecting that or not, but that is what he got. The Bible leaves the scene somewhat loosely. The Chosen (TV show) shows this story in a more detailed and interesting way. In the scene, when Jesus sees all the children, he bursts into a big grin. He was absolutely delighted to see the babies, kids, and youth. I love how that scripture plays out in that scene.

It is often the case that churches treat kids and teenagers the way those adults in Luke 18 did. The adults get frustrated when the young people are not quiet enough, they make a mess, or they want something to be done differently. Unfortunately, some pastors treat young people the same way. They feel and act as if the young people are the Youth Minister’s responsibility and problem. I personally disagree with that approach to being a Senior Minister. I am a pastor to everyone, and I should love and care for them accordingly.

Recently, after talking to people and leaders in the community, I realized one of our community’s many needs. There are many needs, as most of you are aware. However, the need that stood out to me during one conversation in which the person was telling me how many teenagers in Moore often have no supervision between the time school gets out and the time their guardians get home. In other words, kids are roaming free quite frequently. All I could think is that FCC Moore could be some part of the answer, even if it is small.

Therefore, we will be hosting 3-on-3 basketball games on Tuesdays from 4:00 to 5:00 PM, starting in November. This opportunity is available to high school students in any district. They will need to register online (the link will be available in several places) or contact me directly if they would like to participate, as I can only accommodate a smaller number of players. If another adult would like to help be a backup for me or to referee games, that would be great. Just let me know. You can step in and help as often as you would like.

The only requirement I have for the students is that they must participate in the halftime prayer and devotion. It will be a short scripture, talk, and prayer. This is a great opportunity for us to not only provide a loving and safe place for these youth but also to share the gospel in a relatable way.

I share this with you all in the hope that you will help spread the word. However, I also hope you will support it through your prayers and thoughts. Bringing Christ into someone’s life can transform them. I have several people from a youth group I led years ago, with whom I still keep in touch. Some of them have become good friends. You never know the power of the gospel that the gospel can have when it is brought to someone on their level and where they are at. That is exactly what we are doing, and I am excited about it.

Peace,
 

Pastor Matt