State of the Union/Church

Tonight President Obama will address a joint session of Congress and the nation during the annual State of the Union address. A new twist has been added this year- a symbolic gesture by Republicans and Democrats -members will not be seated by party. Early reports state the President will focus on the economy and jobs. Congress and the nation await to hear what plans he has to offer to meet these pressing issues .

What is the state of the union for your congregation?  What would you highlight -or did you highlight in an annual church meeting? Every President while raising issues also reminds the nation about what is good in Amercia. What would you celebrate in  your church?  What ministry has  especially changed lives this past year? What positive trends can you report?

What are the issues facing your church and community?  Are financial  and stewardship issues a major concern?  What is being proposed to deal with this issue? Is your congregation aging? Are 20-30 year s olds missing from your church? How will your ministry need to change?  Have you had to cut staff? How will these cuts effect your ministry? Are your adult members and leaders growing spiritually?

After the speech, comes the hard work.  Will party lines be drawn again and bitter debate begin? It is easy to analyze problems , criticize others, and  it is quite another thing to develop a plan and follow through and work for the common good.  Is there division is your congregation? Is there common ground? Do you have a plan and commitment to follow through no matter the cost?

Recently most Presidents have ended their speech with the call - "May God bless America". God has already  blessed the church with the power and gifts  of the Holy Spirit; we need to  be open to Spirit's leading and power.