“Be strong and courageous!” God instructed Joshua, who had the job of leading a million or so people after their forty year journey out of slavery. They had experienced slavery for four hundred years!

It was a huge task.



This weekend our nation remembers and celebrates that on June 19, 1865, Union soldiers finally announced freedom to slaves in Galveston, Texas. They had been freed more than two years earlier, but they did not know they were free. We celebrate “Juneteenth” now as a national holiday. Abraham Lincoln understood the size of his task to free the slaves. And former slaves quickly understood the challenges of their freedom. We celebrate those who live in freedom, and we work for justice for those who remain enslaved and under the oppression of slavery.

Justice work requires courage. Joshua’s source of courage comes not from within himself, or from a magical potion, or incantation. It comes from the presence of God.

“Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go!” Joshua 1:1-10. Ask God to be present with you. Confess your reluctance or failure to follow God and give yourself to act according to his teachings. Let's work together to do that. That's why we gather to pray, worship, and encourage one another.

Please pray with me:

Dear God, Creator of all people, we rejoice in the life you give us. We seek your presence. Forgive us for ignoring and disbelieving you. As we turn back to you, receive us and because we will experience your wonderful presence and love, we will fear nothing and have great courage to do your will. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Now, scroll down to see what great things you can do to love, serve, and engage!

Roger Frederick
Lead Pastor

              Facebook                            Instagram                      Email Pastor Roger          Website          

Click Here to Sign-Up to CtC's Weekly Newsletter

Forward today's CtC Weekly Newsletter to a Friend

Give Here to Change Lives Through CtC Ministries