July 2, 2025
“You, therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. What you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, commit to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” – 2 Timothy 2:1-2
This past Sunday we had our Vacation Bible School program. The kids got up on stage, told Bible stories, sang their songs, and read their verses to show everyone the fruit of a wonderful week of VBS. As part of this Sunday, I always like to recognize our volunteers. This year I was especially overwhelmed with joy as I looked out and saw all the volunteers who had been a part of our VBS program as a child. So many youth volunteers, adult volunteers, and even this year’s VBS director had grown up in our church. Our discipleship had led to a wonderful group of young men and women who were now serving the Lord.
The modern church in America can often make the mistake of concentrating on so many things other than discipleship, and that has led to a slow decline in healthy churches. But this shouldn’t surprise us because, as individual Christians, we spend very little time thinking about discipleship. I believe this, more than anything else, has led to a decline in Christian beliefs and values in America. You do not have to be a pastor or professor to disciple someone. Those little VBS kids who are now VBS leaders were simply taken in by men and women who love them and love Jesus. Discipleship, at its base level, is simply teaching someone else what it is you know and love about your Savior. I strongly encourage you to prayerfully look around you this week and ask God who it is that you should be investing in. The course of the church in America is not going to shift because of a great pastor or a great book or a great new program. The way Jesus will be glorified here and now is through everyday Christians doing everyday discipleship.
God, give us a passion to show others how incredible You are. Teach us to bring people alongside as we walk faithfully with You.
In Christ’s Service,
Pastor Shane Cannon