At First United Methodist Church Mart, we are a faith community that strives to keep Christ at the center of everything we do. Whether we are worshipping, working, or witnessing, Christ is the foundational stone…the Cornerstone…of our faith community.
There are some powerful and encouraging reasons to be involved in an authentic faith community. First, your fears and vulnerabilities become strengths. That is the product of “group” faith. As we face the inevitable trials, troubles, and tragedies of life, God intends that we be supported, strengthened, encouraged, and empowered through the community of believers. When we are weak, those around us become strong FOR US.
Second, being involved in a faith community also provides opportunities for ministry. It gives us opportunities to minister in unique and personal ways to one another and to the world as we seek to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
Lastly, when we are involved in a faith community, we receive guidance to our lives. The community of faith is crucial to our well-being because it is the source of much needed guidance and direction. As an 85 year old friend of mine once said, “we need our community of believers because none of us is as smart or strong as all of us put together!”
Ephesians 3:10 declares that “God’s intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known.” God guides us and gives us wisdom for the journey as we study the Word, pray, fellowship, serve, and share our faith together.
Communities of faith are people who are seeking to put the needs of others ahead of their own, following the example of Christ. They are servants and ministers to one another who watch out for one another, care for one another, and encourage one another to live for Christ and become more and more like Him everyday.
Jesus was always closely connected to the disciples. I believe that is our example that we are stronger together than alone.
Larry Crabb, a Christian psychologist wrote that “A central task of a faith community is to create a place that is safe enough for the walls to be torn down and safe enough for each of us to reveal our brokenness.”
It is this…our faith community…that encourages spiritual growth, provides accountability and allows true transformation to happen in our lives.
Who carries you? Who knows the stuff that goes on in your life that almost no one else would know about? Who is walking and “living” with you in your “stuff” and is praying for you right now? Who is encouraging you, challenging you, and maybe even correcting you as you seek to follow Christ on your faith journey?
Whether you are searching for answers, looking for something more, or are a seasoned Christian, the congregation of First United Methodist Mart invites you to join us to worship and grow in your faith. Come join us…we have a place for you!