My wife, Robin, loves to read and to play Scrabble. As a young girl she spent hours playing with her mother, and she’s passing down the tradition to our children, as well. Our youngest, Lauren, especially likes to play with her mom. I will occasionally play, but I find it very difficult to beat Robin - so I prefer playing chess. So far I’m fairly unbeatable in the family, though the kids are giving me a run for my money more these days. Robin doesn’t play chess, so I’m safe there!

I’ve learned in Scrabble that the key is to use all your letters and try to make more than one word at a time. The use of “s” is particularly helpful, and knowing how to use two-letter words effectively. It’s amazing how many two-letter words there really are (la, ti, do,lo, no, etc.). In the Scripture there is one two-letter word that has the power to change lives! Simply reading this word evokes motion, action, enthusiasm. Have you figured it out yet?! It’s the word “go!” Think of some of the significant scripture verses that contain that simple word:

1. “The Lord had said to Abram, Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you." And he did! (Genesis 12:1)

2. “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, Whom shall I send? And who will go for us? And I said, 'Here am I. Send me!" Isaiah answered the call to be God’s prophet with great enthusiasm!
(Isaiah 6:8)

3. “Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation.” Jesus’ word to His disciples and us to reach the world for Christ! It’s a command not simply a suggestion. (Mark 16:15)

4. Jesus declared to the woman caught in adultery, “Then neither do I condemn you, Go now and leave your life of sin.”(John 8:11)

It’s amazing how such a little word can transform a person’s life! Is God calling you to “Go” with Him on new adventure in trusting Him? I sure hope so! We’re moving forward as a church in some new and exciting ways in 2008, and we need you to listen to God and answer His call. I’m trying, too. Even now I’m “south of the border” with eleven others on a First Church Mission trip to La Cabonera, Mexico. We’ll be home Saturday night, so I look forward to being back with you in worship on Sunday! Hasta la vista!

Yours in Christ,
Mark