Telling the story of the nations together

Super Bowl 60 is behind us, though not all the chatter about it. There seems to have been at least two rivalries at play. One was between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks. The other, and perhaps the one that received the most attention, was between two different halftime performances.

I will not comment on either rivalry. What I will note is what an incredible platform the Super Bowl is for relaying a message. From the signs people hold to the words on the giant LED screens to the halftime performance and the ads, everyone is aware that their message is being sent to millions of people around the world.

Some promoted products. Others called attention to issues. A few offered creativity and entertainment. And yet others relayed gospel-oriented messages.

I remember when I was younger, and we sang, “We’ve a story to tell to the nations” in church. I love that hymn, especially the lyrics. It is true. We have a message to relay to the peoples of the world. It is the message of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:19).

This summer, the FIFA (soccer) World Cup will feature multiple matches in Dallas and Houston, Texas. Over six million people from different countries are expected to visit our state between June 11 and July 19. What an incredible opportunity for Texas Baptists churches and members to welcome, serve and share the gospel with our guests!

On March 28, the Texas Baptists Evangelism office will offer training and networking opportunities for churches to seize this opportunity of relaying the message of reconciliation. Mark your calendar for that date from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the First Baptist Church of Arlington. Stay tuned for more information and other resources.

I am writing this update en route to San Diego, California, where I will meet with executive directors of other state conventions. Together, the group will reflect on the future of cooperation as Baptists in our respective states and in the rest of North America.

It is no secret that all state conventions are dealing with lower levels of Cooperative Program giving. This impacts ministry at the state, national and international levels. After 100 years of the Cooperative Program, much has changed in the way churches practice cooperation.

It is important to consider how cooperation has changed and what cooperation needs to look like if we are going to be effective in the future.

As you may know, I am appointing and seeking executive board endorsement for a Cooperative Program study group. While it is important for us to study the particular trends and variables that affect CP giving for Texas Baptists, it will be helpful to discuss and learn what other state conventions are experiencing.

In closing, I would like to give you an update on the Texas Baptists Indemnity Program.

We have provided insurance policies for 105 churches representing $700 million in church property coverage. We are on course to have about 1,000 churches in the program by the end of this year. We praise God for the opportunity to provide affordable and appropriate insurance coverage for churches so they can invest more in ministry. We have heard great testimonies.

Thank you for your prayers and for your generosity through the Cooperative Program. Together, we advance the Great Commandment and the Great Commission. Together, we tell the story to the nations.