A Letter to Sunrise - Joy In Your Accomplishments

Hello,

I hope and pray that the accomplishment comments read in the service today touched your life and that you will spend some time this week thinking about experiencing joy in your accomplishments. As the comments came to me via email I was encouraged and experienced laughter, misty eyes (okay, tears), and spent time reflecting on some of my personal, professional, and family accomplishments that have been beneficial to me, others, and God’s Kingdom. This time in thought lead to thanksgiving, confession, praise and hope. I also made a few phone calls and sent a few emails to people who have helped me along the way. I could sense my joy quota increasing as I read the emails, spent time with God and made a few contacts. May your joy quota increase as you continue to read through Philippians, make a few contacts to say, “Thanks”, this week, and as you spend some time thinking about the many blessings and accomplishments in your life.

As I and the other leaders in Sunrise think about how God has worked in our lives and in your lives we give thanks and we rejoice. This year we have had new people in our weekend service every Sunday. You are inviting others to the service, introducing them to others and their lives are being touched by God and you. You and others are giving of your time, talents and finances and so that others can experience God’s love and blessing as you have. Story after story is being told to the leaders in Sunrise of how God is doing a wonderful work in your life and in the lives of people in your circle of relationships. What a joy! The leaders and I thank God for the opportunity to serve with you, to accomplish task with you, to build relationships with you, and to reach out to others with you. We hope you are sensing God’s joy and power in your life.

As we think about the accomplishments God has allowed us to experience may we give ourselves to God. May we look to honor God at work, in our homes, at play and in our resting. This week take some time to memorize Philippians 4:4 “Delight yourselves in God, yes, find your joy in Him at all times.” As you do this you will begin to smile a little more. I want to encourage you to look forward this week and live in hope. God’s future for you is a future of hope. “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11). Thank God. That is exciting. As you think about your accomplishments you will see that people are involved. God created us to be involved in relationships. Sometimes we give and sometimes we receive. This week seek to be a giver. Think of just one simple way you can have a positive impact in someone’s life and add a joyful accomplishment to your list. Be sneaky, have fun, and watch your joy quota increase substantially.

I and the other leaders in Sunrise thank God for you and look forward to God’s continual work as we worship, serve and share Jesus Christ with others. It is a joy to be able to accomplish God’s work with you and others.


Rejoicing,
Steve Nethery