Introduction
Seek, Serve, Save: Intentional Steps Towards Eternal Impact
Introduction
This weekend, I attended the homegoing services for my Aunt Geraldine Pittman Clark, fondly known as “Aunt Gerri.” I reflected on this weekend as I returned home from the Pittman farm in North Carolina yesterday morning. I couldn’t help but contemplate the time that has slipped away without me connecting with the cherished aunts, uncles, and cousins who form the Pittman and Bell branches of my father’s family. During my long drive home yesterday morning, I found myself immersed in thoughts of the past, determined that in 2024, I would intentionally reconnect with those I’ve missed for far too many years. Departing from my North Carolina family at 4:30 am, I embarked on a journey to join my Channel of Grace (CoG) family for Sunday service. Once again, I was reminded of the signs that God has placed in my path, guiding me toward the CoG family and the wise leadership of Bishop Ken Harper. This experience was undeniably intentional.
At my home, the Channel of Grace Worship Center, in Edgewood, MD, as we bid farewell to 2023, we also transition from our year-long journey of “Fighting for Focus,” a theme that has guided us towards maintaining our spiritual path amidst constant distractions. As we enter 2024, we are called to embark on a new mission — intentionally saving souls. Our focus is shifting from personal spiritual nourishment to taking the Good News to those who might not have heard or embraced it.
Biblical Foundations
The mission of saving souls is familiar but deeply entrenched in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Consider the parable of the Lost Sheep in Luke 15:3–7. In it, the shepherd leaves his ninety-nine sheep to go after the lost one until he finds it, expressing great joy when he does. This parable illustrates God’s deep concern for every individual and His desire for all to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4).
In the book of Matthew, the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19–20 NLT) further clarifies our task as believers. Jesus commands His disciples to “. . . go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you.” This directive from Jesus signifies that our mission is to share the Gospel and to disciple others, guiding them in their spiritual journey.
This mission is echoed in the actions of the Apostle Paul, who became all things to all people so that he might save some (1 Corinthians 9:22). A singular focus drove his life and ministry — proclaiming the Gospel and leading people to Christ.
2024 Focus: Intentional Soul Saving
I am excited to learn more about where Bishop Harper leads us in 2024 as we shift our theme to follow these biblical examples and intentionally save souls. I am still learning and growing in Christ, but I believe our intentionality will include sharing the Gospel with others and living in a way that reflects Christ’s love and compassion. I look forward to learning more about living by deliberately seeking opportunities to demonstrate God’s grace and love to those around us, whether through my words or actions.
I believe we must also be prepared to be intentional about saving souls. As 1 Peter 3:15 (NLT) shares, “Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it.” This message involves equipping ourselves with knowledge of the Scriptures and cultivating a solid personal relationship with God to share our faith effectively with others.
Conclusion
I am excited about what’s to come at my church home in 2024. I am excited about the challenge and a profound opportunity — to save souls intentionally. This focus, grounded in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, calls us to extend our spiritual focus beyond ourselves and reach out to others with the life-changing message of the Gospel.
As we journey through 2024, remember that each interaction is an opportunity to show Christ’s love and bring others closer to Him. Let’s intentionally save souls and fulfill our part in the Great Commission. This commission emphasizes the importance of evangelism, baptism, and teaching the commandments of Jesus. It is considered a fundamental mission for all Christians to share the message of salvation and discipleship with others in our local communities and worldwide.
