FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH
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January 4, 2018

In just a few days we will begin taking the Congregation Assessment Tool (CAT).
 Surveys have a purpose in the life of the church, but they remind me of the survey (census) that King David conducted in 2 Samuel 24 (also recorded in 1 Chronicles 21).  We are not sure why David conducted a census to determine the number of fighting men at his disposal, but knowing David we can garner a clue.  Plus…David’s response to the census when it was completed gives us more clues.  Another clue…God’s judgment against David and Israel: 70,000 people dead from plague.  So, that census was a really bad idea!!!!
 What would make a census/survey a really bad idea?  In David’s case, it would be counting on the size of his army to deliver him from his enemies.  If David could take credit for his victories then where was the need for God?  God is jealous of people’s praise and wants to be number one in their lives.  Sometimes David forgot that. And when he forgot…he paid the price.
 We are about to take a survey but the purpose is not to glorify ourselves; quite the opposite.  The purpose of this survey is not to lift up our work but to discern what God is up to.  With that in mind I would like each of us to pray a prayer for God’s guidance as we are about to complete the survey.
 Please use your own prayer or this one….
               “Almighty and Everlasting God, you have called us to be your people and to perform your work in this world.  I ask that you would guide me as I answer these survey questions.  Inspire me with your Spirit that I may be guided by your wisdom.  Be with our congregation as we seek to discern your holy will.  In Jesus Name, Amen.”          
May the Lord be with us!
Pastor Mike

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