Looking into 2024. First, we need to recognize how far we have come since we became an independent church in April. During this time of transition, we did not fall behind on any of our financial obligations.  Money is tight, as in our building maintenance fund where we have had costly repairs. As a people, we must work together to ensure our church home is taken care of. Even so, not only have we maintained our obligation to all of our missions but have increased our effort to meet the growing needs of our community. We have looked at the spiritual needs and physical needs of the people in our area. Our church has grown with new members over the past year. God has continued to use us and I believe he has even greater plans for our future.

When I look toward the new year, I think of growth. For some, church growth is numbers. While that is part of the story, it is incomplete. The most important growth is inside. We the people of First Methodist Church Bridgeport will always need to grow in our walk with Christ. We are not an entertainment venue; we are an organization dedicated to our Lord Jesus Christ. Physical growth without spiritual growth is fruitless in the kingdom of God. Therefore, our focus is both inward and outward. Our missions, evangelism, and worship need to be woven tightly together as we learn and implement the Greatest Commandment of loving God and neighbor as ourselves. The closer we come to the love of God in Christ, the greater our strength and desire to do the great work the Lord has for us. And as many of you know, when you reach out to another with the love of God, it feels like nothing else. It is true that we have been blessed to be a blessing. I encourage everyone to be in prayer as the Lord guides us through the year.  Ask God what you can do personally in His church. A great example is what our women’s group Gals in Grace has accomplished over the last eight months. 

This reminds me that we guys have fallen behind. As a group of men in worship and service together, there are unique ministries we can accomplish. Sometimes guys need a group of fellow men to help us grow and serve in Christ. Working together we can reach out to other men inside and outside of the church.   

We have a bus ministry we would like to get started, new Bible studies, and the dreams God has put on your heart that need attention. Remember, we are the church. Together, we will do the Lord’s work in Wise County and the world.

Pastor Rick