This week some Mariners Pastors and I are hosting 150+ other pastors from all over the country, training them about Rooted and its impact on people and churches. God is using Mariners to influence many churches and it’s a privilege to be part of this.

I tell you that to ask you this: How do you STAY ROOTED?

Note: If you’ve yet to participate in Rooted, that’s a must for January.

More than likely, you’ve gone through Rooted. But what does it mean to STAY?

Jesus said, “Remain in me, and I will remain in you.” (John 15).

What does that mean? It simply means staying connected. Connected to Jesus, connected to other Jesus followers, connected to your mission and purpose for life.

How do we do that? Lots of ways… Here are just a few:

– Join us on Sundays. There are no gold stars for church attendance, but just as your body needs food, your soul needs nourishment. You can get that on your own (praying, reading your Bible, walking with God in nature), but being with others who are collectively celebrating God is like a vitamin shot.

– Join us in the community. I know that you care about people and that you do good wherever you go. But scheduling it and taking family or friends with you is a really important thing, too. You get to have a shared memory. You get to reflect together on why Christmas is more than just decorations and presents. So schedule serving.

– Invite. People are more likely to come to church around Christmastime (and Easter). Their hearts are more open. There is more nostalgia and attraction to church. Even if they’ve declined ten times before, this time might be the one. By the way, the best way to experience Christmas is through the eyes of a child. Similarly, the best way to experience church at Christmas is through the eyes of someone exploring Jesus—for the first time, or with renewed hope. Invite people to church this season.

I love you and pray for you often.

See you soon…

caleb

PS: Listen to recent messages here.
PPS: Give to Mariners HB here.