“Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.
— 1 Peter 3:14b–15a (NIV84)
There are many ways and various “ceremonies” we can participate in to dedicate something. From Baby Dedications to wedding ceremonies, we have all witnessed or participated in some form of dedication….
As we move past BAU, into a season of hope and transformation, I would like us to seriously consider participating in the “Prayer at the Heart,” this September. It will not only be commemorating the Feast of Trumpets, but it will also be an opportunity to once again to dedicate, (or rededicate) our lives to following the Lord Jesus.
A little history on various dedication “ceremonies” at VBC: In 1997, while I was interim pastor, we held a ceremony to repent of the rather awkward and sometimes spiteful split Valley Bible had from its mother church. I was then led to ride my bike in a rather spiral-shaped path starting at G Road by the freeway and arriving at the church as the focal point. I then anointed the center of what is now our parking lot.
Then, in the early 2000’s, we anointed and prayed over all the doors of the building, dedicating them afresh to serving the Saints and those who seek to know the Lord Jesus. Shortly after this, we did a “Jericho Walk” around our land. Yep, we marched 7 times in silence around the perimeter of our 4.5 acres, breaking the silence on the 7th lap with cheers and praises as our then music leader led us is songs of praise. (They neighbors thought we were strange!)
Throughout my 23 years here as pastor I have often knelt in the center of the floor and prayed that we would be dedicated to Living the Resurrected Life of the Lord Jesus, drawing many from all over the valley and all over the world who desire to serve with a heart that has been broken and made whole.
I need not mention our month’s praying and fasting, but this is but one of the many “ceremonies” we have participated in over the years of Valley Bible. I do not have space to recount all the countless people who have knelt in the same spot I have, who have anointed the door frames & parking lot, who have and continue to pour their sweat & tears into this body called Valley Bible.
This past July, Valley Bible Church celebrated its 47th year as a fellowship, as a light in this neighborhood and community. Another “thing” I heard from the Lord this past fast was to continue to “Build with the Past, to Live for the Present While Planning for the Future.” And part of this future is rededicating ourselves to passionately Pursue the Lord Jesus, as we build families to live His Word!
Join me in the pursuit,
Pastor Mike