Down by the Creek – June 2015

ACPC-drwing-HiResFrom the Pastor’s Desk

Dear Friends,

As many of you are aware I initiated a letter to local news organizations concerning violence towards Muslims. The letter was co-signed by 24 other Christian pastors across York county. After receiving the letter, the Rock Hill Herald contacted me and the story has now appeared in the Rock Hill Herald, Charlotte Observer, and Lake Wylie Pilot. It has also been linked to some national blogs on-line.

So why did I initiate this letter? I initiated this letter in my desire to follow the teachings of Jesus. Jesus, as I understand him, sought to find ways to overcome violence. “You have heard it said ‘an eye for an eye’ but I say . . . . whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to them also.” (Matthew 5:38). “Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9).

When I saw reports of someone who wanted to claim Christianity as an excuse to carry out violence against another, I felt that it was my responsibility to take a stand against this. Too many Christian leaders are saying things that are leading to increased violence rather than seeking peace.

Are we not called to profess Christ so that all will come to a saving relationship through him? Yes we are. But what is going to be a more effective witness to the love of Jesus Christ? Will more be attracted to Christ by violence and exclusivity or will more be attracted by peace and welcome.

On the Monday after the article appeared I received a phone call. This person told me that what we did was a very Christian act. The person who shared this message with me is a resident of Holy Islamville.

Peace, Sam


Devotional: Matthew 9:17

“Neither is new wine put into old wineskins; otherwise, the skins burst, and the wine is spilled, and the skins are destroyed; but new wine is put into fresh wineskins, and so both are preserved.”

I have been thinking about this verse as I watch the old sanctuary windows being removed and new windows being installed. I love looking at the old windows that are now sitting beside the stage. I marvel at the architecture of the work that went into them. I think about 160 years of history that these windows witnessed. All of the weddings, funerals, services, and children running in and out. It excites me that each of these windows will now be re-purposed. These windows will now end up in
people’s homes and even a cross we are planning to erect on the church grounds. These old windows have served this church well and will carry the memories to new places.

Even though I will miss the old windows I am struck by what the new windows bring. The sanctuary looks almost new with these windows. The windows bring energy efficiency but they also bring a sense that there is something new that is happening inside.

  • Where do you need to make changes to welcome the newness of God?
  • What do you need to discard?
  • What new thing is God doing in your midst?