In a quick visit to Rockport-Fulton this week, I noticed a new construction project. Among the recovery efforts from Hurricane Harvey over the last two years, I imagine the folks living here have seen some things rebuilt and others not. For this pastor who went to high school here and then moved away, this construction project has special meaning.

The old Paws and Taws community building was used for meetings, Gatherings, dances, prom nights, and so much more. Our graduating class of 1978 had danced here. Laura and I went to prom here. I think I wore a lime green leisure suit. Lots of memories!

To see something new being constructed in the same location - well, it’s just very good to see! Congratulations to this community for the progress made in two years. And to all who have lived daily in the storm’s aftermath, your perseverance is showing!

go Pirates!

Pastor Paul
Along the Way

I often pray for family, community, church, and neighbor. And by neighbor I mean anyone and everyone to whom the Lord calls me to serve. In praying for Neighbor today, an overwhelming sense of urgency came upon me. It was not peaceful. It felt the opposite of what I have come to know as peace.

I was visiting with my parents yesterday and my 94 year old Dad told me about an article he just read in National Geographic about world migration. He said, son the world is on the move. Did you know about this? I replied, well yes Dad. Are you speaking of the migration on our continent? He said, not just that son - all over the world! God’s people are moving!

My Dad may have said something profound. He has been known to do that from time to time. The article sure impressed upon him a sense of urgency as to the plight of so many.

Here’s the deal... those migrating are someone’s neighbor. Are they mine or yours to care for? That seems to be one of the primary questions of our day. And what does it mean to care, to offer hospitality, to provide safety, to welcome, to make a way? Countries across the globe are struggling with these questions. Our country is divided on the matter.

Neighbors, whether those with sameness or those with otherness, are all created in the image of God. Neighbors are people with families and dreams and lives filled with wonder and questions. Who am I to discard a neighbor, to turn a blind eye, to walk by, to actively engage with hostility? So many questions. One answer.

Matthew 25 is a place to seek counsel.

The urgency I feel this morning is not going away anytime soon. The world is on the move.

Along the Way
​Padtor Paul