This is a very special day for the Friendship family. In addition to celebrating Deacons and Trustees Affirmation Day, on today we are also celebrating 23 years in this church building. We join with the Psalmist and say: “Praise ye the Lord, O give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good: for His mercy endureth forever. Who can utter the mighty acts of the Lord? Who can show forth all His praise? Blessed are they that keep judgement and he that doeth righteousness at all times.” (Psalm 106:1-3)
We thank and praise God on this day of assertion and Godly validation. On today, our deacons are standing up and stating publicly; “I am a deacon as defined by the Bible, God’s holy word.” Deacons are appointed Church Officers, ordained by the apostles (Acts 6:1-6). They are named with the Bishops/Elders (Philippians 1:1), and their qualifications are recorded in 1 Timothy 3:8-13. Deacons, servants of the Lord Jesus Christ. Men who have accepted and are serving in their holy calling. We bless God and honor the leadership of the deacons. The Word of God states: For those who perform well as deacons acquire a good standing for themselves and also gain much confidence and freedom and boldness in the faith which is [founded on an centers:] in Christ Jesus (1 Timothy 3:13 Amplified Bible).
The Trustees are certainly included in Colossians 3:23: Whatever may be your task, work at it heartily (from the soul, as [something done] for the Lord and not for men). On today, the Trustees are affirming their stewardship, a trust granted for profitable use, of Spiritual things based on gifts bestowed upon His people. Trustees servants, of the Lord Jesus Christ. Men who have accepted and are serving in their holy calling. We bless God and honor your servanthood.
On the first Sunday in January, in the year of 1996, the Lord blessed Friendship, with great fanfare, to move into this building. For 23 years, God has been faithful. In this building, souls have come to the Lord, weddings have been conducted, funeral services have been held. Truly, God has manifested Himself in His house. How apropos we celebrate Deacons and Trustees Affirmation Day along with our 23 year celebration of this building, for the former worked mightily to cause the latter to come to pass.
Deacons and Trustees, be blessed as you work for Him. The best is yet to come!
Pastor J. Amos Jones
