RENEWING GOD’S HOUSE THROUGH LEARNING AND GROWING:  2 Thessalonians 1:3 We must always give thanks to God for you, brothers and sisters, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing.

When does our Faith Journey begin?  At birth? When baptized? Or perhaps the first time you remember attending church?  Is the answer obvious to you?

I believe we all begin our Faith Journey at birth.  Unfortunately, there is no map or YouTube video for us to follow, thus each of our journeys is different.

The beginning of my journey is probably like many of you.  I grew up in a family that did not attend church. Yes, we went on Easter and Christmas, and I do remember a couple of Sunday school classes at Grace Lutheran Church in Streamwood IL.  Obviously, my faith was not developing much during my childhood.

My faith really didn’t grow until I agreed to attend Salem with my now wife, Brenda.  At Salem I was finally introduced to God and the abundant Grace he has for each of us.  As I think back on the 30 or so years I have been a member at Salem, I realize how important the Salem family is to me and how so many of the pastors and Salem members have impacted my life.  I’ve learned to pray, and to willfully participate in the many activities and opportunities Salem offers. I am a better husband, father and person because Salem helped me grow my faith and learn how to use it.  

Now as we go forward with an opportunity to renew ourselves, I pray that each one of us, you and me will be as successful in growing Christ in others as each of you have been in growing Christ in me.

Heavenly Father, Please grant each of us the strength to grow and learn on our Faith Journey and to help others on their Faith Journeys.  Amen.