9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 

- Romans 12:9-10

Prayers for joy and safety for those of you donning masks and costumes with your children and friends to enjoy some Halloween fun. 

I recently read Romans 12:9 that exhorts God's people to love sincerely. Sincerity is not putting on a show or pretending. To love sincerely we offer ourselves to one another genuinely, from our true selves. The truth of the gospel means that we are placed into God's family. We belong, just as we are! We have also been made good by the life, death, and resurrection of our Lord. So, while pretending to be something you are not is great for entertainment, it does not lead to the kind of relationships God calls his people. May you experience the profound acceptance of your Father in heaven and may that bring freedom to love those around you with greater and greater sincerity!

Rick Keith, on Behalf of the Elder and Minister Team