You may have heard the story of a church picnic planned by the local congregation. A senior member, who normally was very involved in this sort of activity, was on vacation when plans were made and never officially notified of the picnic.
The night before the big event, the pastor realized the oversight and apologetically called the member. The member was hurt and offended by the last-minute call, refusing to attend the festivities. How sad that we let simple mistakes take us down a path we likely will regret later.
None of us like to be overlooked, forgotten or ignored. It might hurt to think that we can so easily be replaced.
Psalm 115 reassures us that we never will be forgotten by God. Verses 11-13 read as follows: “You who fear the Lord, trust in the Lord! He is their help and their shield. The Lord has remembered us; He will bless us; He will bless the house of Israel; He will bless the house of Aaron; He will bless those who fear the Lord, both the small and the great.”
The entire bible demonstrates God remembering. He remembered Adam and Eve and promised to send a Savior. Romans 4:18 says “Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, ‘So shall your offspring be.’” Abraham was remembered.
As Jesus walked the earth he remembered the often-forgotten people of society. He healed the lepers and cast out demons. He spoke with the Samaritan woman at the well. He made well the many who were sick. Even while being crucified, He remembered the criminal on the cross next to Him. He remembered His mother, asking John to care for her.
God is also there for you. As you take your concerns large or small to the Lord in prayer, stop and listen. He will answer you. And He has already taken care of the biggest need you have, forgiveness of sins and the assurance of eternal life. God loves you and remembers you. We invite you to become a member of the Church Extension Fund family. Investing with CEF provides the resources to help build the Kingdom in partnership with you and your congregation. If you are interested in becoming a CEF Representative at your congregation, contact us to get more information about serving with us at your church.
Bill Burmeister
Church Extension Fund – Michigan District
800-242-3944 ~ bill.burmeister@mi-cef.org