Ready to take a walk?

If you ask the average Christ-follower which spiritual discipline intimidates them the most or makes them the most squeamish, it’s usually sharing their faith.  But what if you found out that simply crossing the room and saying hello to someone could change that person’s life forever?  Just a few steps to make an eternal difference!  Effective personal evangelism isn’t about memorizing the right formula or script.  It’s also not about having the right education or being the most spiritually mature person you know!  It’s about following God’s leadership while showing a genuine interest in the life of another human being.

Starting this Sunday (and continuing for the month of June), we’ll explore this simple but powerful truth in the message series “Just Walk Across the Room” based on the book by Bill Hybels.  I’m certain that this exciting and immensely practical series will be motivating (and relieving) for you!  Copies of the book will be available starting this Sunday for just $12 (while they last).  You can also order it HERE if you prefer.

As a body of believers, God has called us to make disciples, and this series is an important reminder of how He uses us to accomplish that goal.  Lost and broken people make up the majority of our community, and they need to know that their Creator loves them personally.  As we read in 1 Peter 3:15, Christ-followers need to “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.”  Peter continues by saying, “But do this with gentleness and respect...”.  I hope you’ll join me for this series and beyond as our whole church gears up for a summer of intentionally touching our community with Christ’s love while also strengthening our love for one another through strategic connection events.

As a reminder, here are some dates you’ll want to plan for:

• PICNIC AT THE PARK (Sunday, June 13):  All are invited to a church picnic at Endicott Park after our celebration service next Sunday.  Bring your own meat to grill and a side dish and/or dessert to share (and any sports equipment you want to bring).  Drinks and paper goods are provided by the church.  Parking is $1 for Danvers residents and $3 for others.  Area #3 has been reserved for us.  The picnic starts at 1:00 pm., but feel free to arrive anytime after 12:00 noon!

• DANVERS FAMILY FESTIVAL (Late June/Early July):  We’re giving away over 1,000 bags of fresh popcorn at three key events:  Ice Cream Scoop-Ahh Bowl (Saturday, June 19); Crafts & Movie Night (Tuesday, June 22); Endicott Park Day (Saturday, June 26); and Fireworks Festival (Saturday, July 3).  If you’d like to help us give away popcorn at these events, please let me know right away!

• KIDSFEST 2010 (Wednesday-Sunday, July 7-11):  This exciting event allows children entering K-5th grade this fall to get to know God in an exciting new way!  Register in advance at our web site.  We need lots of help for this event!  Sign up to serve at the Information Table today!

• BAPTISM CELEBRATION, COOKOUT & POOL PARTY (Sunday, August 8):  Michael & Jill Cooper are hosting this special afternoon at their home after the service.  Bring a lawn chair, your own meat to grill, plus a side and/or dessert to share.  The church will provide paper products, drinks and grills.

• FALL KICKOFF CELEBRATION SUNDAY (Sunday, September 12):  This is our “Back to Church” emphasis which will feature an intriguing message series especially targeting unchurched and “de-churched” people.  Be praying for those you’ll be inviting!

You’re loved!  Enjoy the rest of your week, and I’ll see you Sunday!