Pastor's Page

The Fair Oaks UMC is God’s family here at Joyner Street in Marietta.  It is somewhat like my family in East Cobb and my brother’s family in Martin, Georgia.  We are part of a larger family, the Ray family, which has many members.  As each of our individual families take care of their needs, the Fair Oaks UMC family takes care of the needs of its family understanding that we are a part of a much larger whole that needs our care also.   We are part of the Universal Church of Jesus Christ. 

The point I am trying to make with all this rambling is that the church is where we can serve the head of the family, Jesus.  He wants us to be in vital relationship with Him.  He wants to give us gifts to do ministry and to the needs of needy people in this world.    He has called us to this family so that we not only will have our personal needs met, but can be instrumental in meeting the needs of others. 

When I think of how God uses those who are so unworthy and so untalented to do miraculous things, I am just overwhelmed.  Recently, I read a letter written to one of our family members who had helped a young man.  In this letter this young man was pouring out his heart to the person who had shown godly concern.  Here is a quote from the letter.  “I Corinthians 13 – it’s a good one about love.  Sorry I normally don’t like to talk about my problems, but I felt you would be the one to care.”

This is what life is all about --- giving ourselves in service to a God who not only loves us but wants to use us in His loving others.   I become so excited when I think of it tears of joy come to my eyes.   Thank God we have been born into His family.  Thank God He has entrusted you and me with His ministry to others.  Join me on Sunday and let’s celebrate His love together.  Have a very happy and prosperous New Year!