by Dr. Frank R. Lewis, senior pastor
First Baptist Nashville rolled out the red carpet to nearly 1,300 pastors and worship leaders from nearly every state in the nation and several countries representing Baptists, Methodists, Lutherans, Presbyterians, Moravians, Brethren, United Christian Church, Disciples, Episcopalians, and others this past month as we hosted the national Festival of Homiletics (Homiletics is the study and practice of preaching). The event was organized by www.goodpreacher.com and we were honored to host the event along with our downtown Nashville church community.
Our volunteers, choir, and staff went above and beyond to extend the hospitality of Christ to our diverse Christian family in hosting this event. I don't know that I've ever been as proud to be pastor of this church. You did well.
I'm reminded of the beautiful image of the Body of Christ in reflecting on this event. These friends from all across the denominational spectrum provided an offering to help support the Christian Women's Job Corps on Tuesday morning during worship. Throughout the week, over $5,000 in cash and gift cards were given by Festival participants to help First Baptist with Flood Relief. On Thursday afternoon, the Festival-goers rolled up their sleeves and worked in three different locations throughout our city to continue to provide help and encouragement to those trying to clean up after the flood. They prayed for our city, supported the downtown merchants, gave generously, and brought a spirit of joy and hope as they mingled in and out from our steeple.
Some people look at what we did as an example of Building Bridges. I think it was just one of the many things we are blessed to do simply because we are Nashville's First Baptist Church. This week, we put our best foot forward loving God and loving people. Thank you, church. You are a blessing.
As you read this issue of the Evangel you're sure to see a number of ways you can plug in to make the Summer of 2010 a time for your spiritual growth. I hope you will make every effort to join with us in all we have planned. From picnics to mission trips, Vacation Bible School and Camps, worship services and service opportunities, you'll love being a part of what God is doing at First Baptist Nashville.
Blessings!
