Dear First Pres,

   What a week! We expected the election process to be drawn out this year, and so it is. Most likely, by the time you see this letter, there will not yet be a definitive winner of the Presidential race. In the meantime, I pray you are sowing peace. James 3:18 says, “Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.”

   As I’m sure you understand (since we’re a church who welcomes Democrats, Republicans, non-partisans, and the rest), there will be some in our congregation who are pleased with the results of the election and others who will not be pleased.  In the midst of that, it’s important to remember that we share an all-encompassing allegiance to Christ and His Kingdom. So, rather than sowing seeds of despair, division, or degradation, may we be a people who are sowing Christ’s peace in our words and deeds. When we do that together, in Christ, the Holy Spirit raises a harvest of righteousness, which means right relationships and right living. When we do that together we witness to the world what the Kingdom of God is truly about. Last week I referenced Romans 15:5-6 to point to the promise of God’s endurance and encouragement. Today I point to it again as the prayer I am praying over our congregation right now. It’s a prayer for unity in Christ. Would you be praying this with me over FPC?

   May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

   Yes, Lord, bring Your unity in Christ so that You may be glorified through FPC Fresno.

Blessings,
Pastor Jeremy

P.S. You did such a great job adapting to the new Sunday schedule last week. Way to go, and thank you!