A Compelling Story

The art of storytelling seems to be almost completely lost in some settings. However, there are places where people still gather to hear a captivating story. In some instances, the stories are completely contrived. In others, the stories are essentially historical fiction. In still others, the stories detail experiences that are so riveting and revealing, their veracity is almost beyond comprehension. As we continue our exploration of the journeys of Paul to proclaim the invitation to salvation that Christ extends, the presentation by Paul at the Areopagus probably seems to land in the category of the latter type of story. In chapter 2 of Cultures in Conflict, Ray Vander Laan posits another poignant question, ‘what is the key to making God near so that those who do not know will seek him and begin to experience who he is?’

Although for many students “school is out” and they are not necessarily interested in extending the school day by a single minute, we are hoping to offer such a compelling story that those who hear it, will not only want to continuously sing the songs that proclaim the new faith that they have found, they will also want to follow the Savior who they now love even more. Beyond the opportunity to participate in worship and Sunday morning classes, our Saturday Vacation Bible School (VBS) offers children, families and adults the chance to encounter an intriguing environment that provides information about Jesus, the multitude of disciples and other followers of Jesus. By delving deeper into the scriptures to memorize the passages and better understand the complex contexts in which Paul and other apostles engaged in critical dialogues with leaders and other citizens, we may learn to embrace the question that was asked ‘may we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting?’ (Acts 17:19).

Only a few days remain before the excitement of VBS erupts across the East Moline campus to welcome children and families to receive the seeds of faith to help us all learn the lessons of Christ. We are looking forward to the tremendous outpouring that we will all share as the Holy Spirit courses through the church and the community. On Sunday morning, we will celebrate Father’s Day and we will spend the afternoon enjoying the Bluegrass Jam and Blessing of the Wheels (motorcycles and classic cars).  There are still copies of Cultures in Conflict available at the church for purchase or you can download a Kindle version.  We’ll look forward to seeing you Sunday!

In Christ,
Jon McCoy