This week we've had the Woodgreen Superhero Holiday Bible Club at church.
It's been great fun for kids and helpers alike and has reminded me again of how uplifting and encouraging it is to work together in gospel ministry.
In Philippians 1, the Apostle Paul thanks God for the Philippians partnership in the gospel:
I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:3-6)
True fellowship is not just sitting together in a church service, it's working together to make Jesus known to those who are lost. While hard work and energy-sapping, this is the most refreshing and fulfilling thing a Christian can do.
To use some of the Biblical metaphors:
- It's fighting side by side as a band of brothers in battle (2 Tim 2:3)
- It's serving faithfully as slaves for the Master's cause (Romans 12:10-11)
- It's sowing together the seed of the Gospel in our common field (John 4:35-36)
- It's running as joyful heralds to spread the good news (Isaiah 52:7)
My non-Christian friends whose children have come this week have been particularly struck by the numbers of volunteer Woodgreeners - of all ages - who have been in 'POW!' T-shirts, helping out and mucking in with the children.
For them, the sense of fun and togetherness that these Woodgreeners have had for each other, and the love they have had for the children who have come, has been a powerful witness: 'Why have so many people given up their time and holidays to do this?'
Jesus gave his disciples a 'new' commandment:
'Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.' (John 13:34-35)
Praise God that for my unchurched friends at least, that love has been evident this week and has made an impact.
So a huge 'THANK YOU' to all those who have given up their time and energy this week to help out - just Sunday's All-Age Holiday Club Service to go now. Can't wait to see the last gripping installment of 'The Crusader'!
If you weren't able to be there - here's a flavour of the theme-tune of the week 'Super Saviour'.
Direct Link for video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucMNF35XZE8&feature=youtu.be
