Last month, I introduced our theme for the year: “Practice Makes Perfect.” This idea comes from Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:48, where He says, “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” In this context, “perfect” doesn’t mean flawless or without error, as the world often defines it. Instead, it speaks to being whole, complete, or mature in Christ. This kind of perfection is a journey, one that we pursue through the spiritual disciplines that Jesus Himself practiced. These disciplines include Sabbath, Prayer, Fasting, Solitude, Scripture, Community, Simplicity, Generosity, and Hospitality. As we practice these Spiritual Disciplines, we become more like Him, which enables us to live into our vision of “Knowing, Growing and Going in the Love Christ.”
In keeping with our theme, we are going to practice Community and Hospitality together on Wednesday, February 12. Join us for a fun evening of fellowship, food, and laughter, as we celebrate Valentine’s Day with dinner and The Newlywed Game! We held this event last year, and I believe everyone had a wonderful time. We are excited to bring it back this year, and we’d love for you to be a part of it!
Valentine’s Dinner Event Details:
· Dinner: 6:00 PM
· Game: 7:00 PM
· Cost: $10 per person (Includes dinner and fun!)
· Catering by Lee’s Chicken
The discipline of hospitality is about being a community that truly welcomes others with open arms, just as Christ has welcomed us. Romans 12:13 says, “Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”
Through this event, we get to open our doors, share a meal, and practice being present with one another. It’s not just about the food or the game; it’s about building relationships and growing together in the love of Christ. In a world that often feels disconnected, these moments of fellowship are vital to nurturing the community Christ calls us to be. This is a chance to connect, build new friendships, or strengthen existing ones—all while celebrating the love and grace of God.
In Acts 2:46-47, we see the early church living out this kind of community: “Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.” When we come together for dinner and fun, we’re following in their footsteps—growing in unity, joy, and the love of Christ. As we laugh, share stories, and get to know each other better, we deepen our relationships in the Body of Christ. John 13:34-35 reminds us of the foundation of our relationships: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” We hope this evening will be an expression of that love—growing together in Christ as we share in the joy of His community.
To help us prepare, please RSVP by February 9th. You can sign up at the round table in the People of Hope Center or contact the church office. We look forward to an evening full of laughter, love, and the joy of community.
Until then, may God bless you and may God bless Bethel Baptist Church.
–Todd