I want to express my sincere thanks for those of you who prayed for the Elders’ retreat that took place this past weekend. It was a time of reflection on who we are, where we are, and where we need to be. We looked at our strengths, weaknesses, and challenges as a church. We tried to be very forthright about both the good and the bad in HLPC. At times it was sobering and other times very encouraging.
What came out of that meeting were three areas we want to focus on in 2016. Those areas can be summarized under the headings of pray, serve, and reach. Our next step is to outline what that will practically look like for HLPC in the coming year. We don’t want to leave things simply at the talking stage. We need to seek God’s help and wisdom taking practical steps to move forward in those areas. There’s more to come.
One of our areas of attention is prayer. We have a wonderful opportunity to gather as a congregation and pursue that goal this Sunday evening at 6PM! We have much to pray about! Our world needs prayer. Our nation needs prayer. Our community needs prayer. Our church needs prayer. Our families need prayer. Our children and youth need prayer. YOU need prayer. We don’t need to worry, but we DO need to PRAY!
The devotional for this Elders this past Saturday morning was based on Psalm 127:1 which reads, Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. (ESV) We need God to build and sustain this church. Our efforts are all useless apart from Him. Yes, we must make efforts but in reliance on His grace and mercy. With that in mind, please come and pray with your church family for the life, health, and ministry of HLPC. Come and pray for the burdens that you find so overwhelming. Then, stay for a great time of fellowship afterwards at our ice cream social!