My first trip to the 2008 ELCA Grand Canyon Synod Assembly in Las Vegas on June 4-6, 2008 was quite an eye opener.  As a member of the Vision Team, Spiritual Growth and Faith Formation Team, Caring in Community Team, and a Sunday School Teacher, I'm learning how New Spirit operates, and now I have a view of how the Synod operates.
    
     Resolutions were passed regarding "support for rostered leaders and congregations during the first years of a new call," "becoming connected congregations and a globally connected church," "stewardship challenge," "hunger change jar," "affirmation of the use of trained intentional interims," "Mission Leaders' Academy," "new mission and re-development funding," and in support of the "millennium development goals."  You will be hearing more about these resolutions and how they affect New Spirit..
    
     However, most enlightening were the key note speakers, making me think of how I am to be a witness for Christ. Rev. Dr. Kathryn Love, ELCA  Assistance Director for Evangelism and Director for Prayer and Renewal challenged us with her talk: "How can we let the secret of Jesus Christ and his resurrection break out from the congregation to the outside world?"  To sum up the intent of her challenge, consider the following - We have many hindrances in our lives when it comes to Jesus Christ. Hindrances keeping us from worship services: "I'm tired from working all week"; "I need to help a friend"; "I have a golf tee off time." Hindrances keeping us from doing more for the church: "Someone else will do it"; I have too many other time commitments." Hindrances keeping us from sharing the word: "I'm too bashful"; "It's not the   Lutheran way"; "I'm embarrassed.  People will think I'm pushing religion on them." Hindrances keeping us from monetary support of the Church: "I need that extra pair of shoes"; " I need a new car"; "The church has enough money."
    
    I know that I have fallen far short of His expectations of me.  I've used these excuses and more for why I don't do more for Christ.   Can you get out of your "safe places" in the congregation or in the   circle of your Bible group and be a witness for Christ?
 
     Can you count how many people you have asked to visit our church in the last year?  One?  Ten?  Or none?  Make a list.  How many people do you know in their 20's, 30's, 40's, 50's, 60's, over 60?  List 4 people you will invite to church in the next month.  Do that every month.  If we all did this, imagine how many people's lives would be touched by Christ!
 
     "You will be a blessing when you share your story about what God did and is doing in your life."
 
     I came home from this Assembly, pumped up and ready to do God's work.  Will you help?  Call New Spirit TODAY and ask how you can be a witness for Christ!