Board of Trustees announcement: May 29, 2021

Hello Church Family,

We hope this email greets you enjoying another beautiful day God has given us, rain is coming in droves but we need that too! The board of trustees has some updates that we wanted to share with you. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

• We are excited that Jesse Roman has accepted the position as Associate Pastor at LBC. Jesse will start the position on June 6th, and the next few months will be a transition period for Jesse and his family as they will be moving from Pennsylvania to New Jersey. Please continue to pray for Jesse and his family and specifically that they are able to find the right residence in the area.

• Praise God! It appears that conditions are changing and we are coming out of a long season caused by Covid 19. The church can now be open to full capacity. The ribbons between pews have been taken down so that all pews can be used. We will continue to have seating in both the sanctuary and the overflow area to allow people to space out as they choose. This has been a very difficult time for all of us and we continue to ask our church family to be the Church, love God and love your neighbor. Each of us is in a different place, for different reasons so please be considerate and love each other well. We have Christ in common, let's start there and follow his example. Through this past year, we have done our best to follow local and state health standards, as you may know there was a change in the recommended use of masks Friday, May 28th. The government is no longer requiring vaccinated people to wear a mask indoors in most public spaces such as restaurants, malls, gyms, pools, casinos, indoor amusement parks, stadiums or theaters. The government is recommending that unvaccinated people continue to wear masks and socially distance themselves. Governor Murphy said, "We won’t have law enforcement checking people’s vaccination status, but we are asking people to be responsible," Murphy already lifted an outdoor mask mandate last week for both vaccinated and unvaccinated people. If this is the standard that a governing official is asking for then we must hold ourselves to a much higher level of love, mercy, kindness, and brotherly love as we wade through this next phase together. As we each make personal decisions in this and all situations we must remember to love our brothers and sisters and treat them accordingly regardless of how we may agree or disagree about this stage and all that is involved. There is no possible way, nor is there a desire to "police" these things among the body but let us remember that we are already given a much higher standard within God's word. What a great opportunity to "show that we are His disciples by how we love each other." With the fact being that children under 12 cannot yet be vaccinated our teachers will continue to wear masks unless outdoors.

• We will be moving to one service starting June 6th, that service will be at 10am. Sunday school will also start that day and will take place from 8:45-9:45. Children's church and nursery will be available during the 10am service.

• Children's day is June 13th at 10am. Children's day provides an opportunity for our youth to run the service and to share what they have been learning.

We love you church and we are excited about what God is and will do at LBC. We will face challenges and blessings, let's lean on the Word together and pray without ceasing as we go through life as a family in Christ.

Sincerely,

LBC Board of Trustees

Psalm 80:7 Restore us, O God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved.

Easter Services: April 4, 2021

Dear LBC family, 

Greetings to you on this beautiful, sunshiny, Spring day. I wanted to take just a minute to update you on a recent change that has been planned for the very near Easter services on April 4th. 

As you are probably already aware the decision was made that we will have one celebration and worship service at 10 am on Easter Sunday. One of the greatest difficulties that Covid has caused us is the separation from each other. It is this understanding and the desire for Ledgewood to continue to be a “family together” church that has led to this single service. We have ample room to carefully social distance and to follow all guidelines to be together as we celebrate our Risen Savior. Each week I see more and more people in services as many have received their vaccinations and as numbers and the severity of sickness continue to decline. It is beautiful and encouraging to see this and I look forward to all of us experiencing this together on Easter Sunday, April 4th at 10 am. I am sure that parking is no new concern here at LBC for large events or services so, if you are able, please park on Main Street and take the short walk, therefore, leaving the parking lot open for those that can not do so. If we work with servants hearts, keeping Christ and others as first in our minds then this will work out wonderfully. Let us also join together in praying for beautiful and pleasant weather as we celebrate The Great News of the resurrection. 

You have also probably received word about the cancellation of the sunrise service. This is the update and change part so please take notice and plan to pass on the message to others. After meetings and much discussion it was decided that the Easter Sunrise Service will occur that morning at the Basin. (As a newcomer I am hoping that the term, “the basin” translates to all of you. If not just give me a call and I will explain.) The service will look very familiar to those of you that have attended in previous years. There will be songs of celebration, a short devotion, and a prayer time as we watch the sun rise over the trees reminding us of The One who rose from the grave 2000 years ago. 

My one prayer, hope, and request for all of us is this. Traditions are beautiful and all of us have them. We have all also watched many of them come and go and that is always difficult. This trend will continue as long as humanity does. My deep desire is that while we celebrate this long standing Ledgewood and Christian tradition, and every other one as well, that we become consumed less with the feelings and memories of years past and more so with the truth that Jesus is risen and as Lord He alone is to be worshipped! HE is who we celebrate, not the traditions about Him. As many of us read through the Old Testament together we see the Hebrews, God’s chosen people, miss this time and time again. They had beautiful traditions instituted by God and still time after time they celebrated the tradition but left God out of it. He was not pleased, honored, nor worshipped in these events. Let us not be so arrogant to think that this can not happen among us. Let us be prayerful and honest that without prayer and heart checks it can and will. Far be it from us, those cleansed and enlivened by His death, burial, and resurrection, to miss this. 

I look forward to celebrating Jesus on Easter Sunday, April 4th. Let us celebrate our Risen King today as we will on that day and every day He gives us to live for His glory and His glory alone.

I truly hope I convey how much of a blessing it is to be a part of this church. In a short and Covid effected time I have come to love you deeply and consider you guys as family. None of us knows the amount of time we are given but I cherish each of the moments I get with all of you here at Ledgewood. 

For His Name’s sake, 

Brock 

April 4 2021: Easter Sunday

5:45 - Sunrise “The Basin” 

10 am - 11:30 In the sanctuary all together

He is not here! He is risen from the dead, just as he said would happen.”  -Matthew 28:6

ACTS 2:42 "Praying Together"

The gift of praying together as needy children to our Father in Heaven is one of the greatest blessings we have received due to the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

We celebrate and participate in this gift in a few different ways. They are listed below.

DAILY ZOOM PRAYER: We meet together using this online format at different times each day of the week except for Sundays. The times are: Mon (10 am) , Tue (7 pm) , Wed (2 pm) , Thu (7 pm) , Fri (2 pm) , Sat (10 am) If you are interested in joining us you will need the online link/phone number and necessary Zoom passwords. Please email me, (Brock) to get that information. (pastorlbchurch@gmail.com).

AS WORSHIP: As stated we believe the source of power for LBC comes from the Father and we believe that he hears our requests for His blessing. A crucial part of each service at LBC is prayer out loud and together. Prayer requests and praises are taken and we open up a time for all led by the Lord to pray to do so. No one is forced or asked to pray but our hope is that as we partake in this great gift all of us are more comfortable with coming together and to The Lord in this way.

“There has never been a spiritual awakening in any country or locality that did not begin in united prayer.” A.T. Pierson

Current Covid-19 Policies & Regulations (1/2021 updated)

Dear LBC Family, friends, and visitors,

As with most churches and other places that are used to large gatherings we at Ledgewood are also having to constantly pay attention to current regulations and suggestions from the government. While this certainly causes many great frustration we are doing our best to remain focused on Christ and His people as we follow the guidelines passed down to us. Many have questions about what we are currently doing during this difficult time. I hope those questions are answered below and if you still need more info please do not hesitate to contact me.

For His Name’s sake,

Brock Sund (Pastor)

pastor@lbchurch@gmail.com

• Both services are closely watched to make sure that we do not go over the allowed amount of congregants in the building at one time.

• Everyone is fully masked at all times unless they are on stage preaching or leading in musical worship.

• We still have a full worship service consisting of worship through prayer, music, & the opening and preaching of God’s word.

• Each family group is socially distanced from others by the separation of chairs or the marking off of pews.

• We do not currently have a time of greeting and fellowship.

• All used spaces are fully cleaned and sanitized after each and every service.

• At this time no outside groups are using the buildings to make sure to limit the possibility of exposure or contamination.

• Hand sanitizer is stationed around the building in many highly visible locations.

• There is no passing of offering plates, usage of pew bibles/hymnals, or communion during this season.

I hope this answers your questions and perhaps calms any concerns that you may have about attending one of our worship services. As I stated if you would like to talk more please contact me directly. I hope that we see you soon. -Brock

LBC COVID UPDATE 12/3/2020

Dear Ledgewood Baptist Church Family

On November 18th, the board of trustees made a decision collectively to close down LBC property for a time in order to protect the health and safety of our church community.  This was not a government directive, but a very difficult decision for the board, based on information received from reliable sources in the medical field about the severity of the coronavirus at this current time and projected increases in cases as people gather over the holiday season.  This is a real risk and we believe that our healthcare professionals are correct in the concern they have for the spread of the virus through our church community caused by church gatherings.  

After further prayer and discussion, we have decided to reopen LBC on December 13th.  Our goal is to do what is pleasing to God. In many parts of the world, Christians do not have the opportunity to meet in church buildings but in homes and in many cases in secret.  If they are following Biblical teaching those gatherings, large and small, are also considered the Church, we shouldn’t fool ourselves into believing that a building is required to worship God. However, after reviewing the information that we have, as a board, we came to the conclusion that some could not worship together without the facility being opened and for that reason we will open our church to both LBC and to Mision Latina.  

As Brock said in his sermon Sunday, the life of a Christian will include suffering and through suffering, perseverance.  We will become mature Christians if we allow God to finish his work in us. Paul was a great example of a follower of Christ who recognized the value in perseverance, and took joy in it.  

Philippians 1:12 Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel.  As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.

It’s impossible to think that we would be here right now, that 2020 would show up in this way but, it did, and here we are.  Let’s walk in scripture together, serving and following God’s commandments. Let’s be unified. We may not always agree but we work together in love for the glory of God in all things.  

Ephesians 4:3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.  

‘Ephesians 5:15-17 Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.  Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 

Expect further correspondence from us regarding additional guidelines that will be put in place for your safety.  We love you church family and want to do what we can to lovingly care for you.  

In Christ, 

Pastor Brock and the Board of Trustees 

Genesis 17:1 “I am God Almighty, walk before me faithfully and blameless.” 

LBC COVID UPDATE: 11/18/2020

LBC Family & friends, 11/18/20

There are times in life when you are forced to make decisions that you really dislike. This is one of those times. For the duration of this year I have had several medical professionals, both inside LBC and outside, that have served as a great source of counsel for me. I have asked them to help me stay as far ahead of this virus based on actual numbers that they are seeing in NJ hospitals, clinics, icu’s, and on ventilators. My desire & prayer has been that these numbers would stay low and that we would be able to continue to services as we have for the past several months. Sadly that is not the case. The numbers are rapidly growing and this virus is clearly rearing its ugly head again. I know that the numbers we see through media are many and perhaps most times not trustworthy but I fully trust those that have been informing me personally. They love The Lord, His church, you, and gathering together weekly. This was not an easy decision but it is necessary. After communicating with the trustees we have decided to shut the campus back down, effective now. I know this is disappointing for you and please know that we deeply feel that as well. Here are a few things to guide us as we walk through this next chapter together: 

• We are still a church. We are still His church. Regardless of what we see in today’s world that brings with it a huge promise and much comfort. Jesus promised that He would build HIS church and that “the gates of hell would not prevail against it.” (Mt. 16:18) Basically the church can not lose. Jesus will not allow anything to overcome His bride. I don’t see it at this moment and we may not on this side of eternity but He is doing something very good by allowing this to take place. We can trust Him. We must trust Him, HE is the only hope we have.

• All services will return to virtual and online. None of us likes this. However it is once again a great way for us to flood the internet airwaves with the Gospel message and some hope in these trivial times. Beginning this Sunday, 11/22, I will begin posting my sermons online and we will not have any in person gatherings at the church campus. I will have them posted by 8:30 each Sunday morning on Facebook, Youtube, & the church website. If you use any of those resources please make sure to share or repost the messages so that others can stay plugged in. If you know of others who do not know how to use these outlets and you can help please do so. If you need help please contact me or the church office.

• I do not know the timeline of this current shutdown. Please know that this is not mandated by the local government at this time. That day may come but this is strictly from me, your pastor and friend, and from a Trustee board that deeply loves and cares for you. Our commitment to you is that we will evaluate weekly and I will continue to update you as we move through this together. It would be foolish for us to not face reality when dealing with this. In all likelihood this will run for several weeks and possibly through the end of the holiday season and 2020. Please join me in praying for mercy and that I am completely wrong about that. The Lord could stop this thing in a moment if that’s what He decides brings Him the most glory. Let us pray that way.

• I completely understand the heaviness. Knowing that this may affect yet another holiday season this year is painful and difficult. I do not take that lightly. If that occurs I will continue to work with the Deacons/Deaconesses & Trustees to do whatever we can to make sure to celebrate and commemorate the birth of our Savior with as much togetherness as possible. I will keep you updated during the process.

• He is faithful. If you have been around at all or read any updates you have heard or seen the ways in which The Lord has remained to be faithful in providing for this local body. So much so that the budget was far surpassed and The Trustees, with permission from the church, were able to make a 41k dollar principal payment on the gym. That is a huge deal and The Lord deserves great praise and all the glory. He has chosen to do that by providing to & through the body at LBC. I ask that you continue to stay faithful in your giving. Many of you have chosen to mail in your tithes and offerings and I ask that you continue or restart in doing that. Others of you have given online. That option has been shut down for a while now due to some unforeseen issues but it is being worked out and will be back running very soon. I will update with that info when it becomes available. Let me finish this bullet point with two quotes that I deeply love. One from one of my heroes and the other from one of my personal mentors.

“God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply.”

-Hudson Taylor (missionary to China)

“None of us will get to Heaven and look into Jesus’ eyes and say, “I sure wish I had given less.”          

- Dr. Stan May (Pastor & missionary to Zimbabwe)

• There is no question that this has been a difficult season in many ways. One of the most difficult is the financial strain that it has put on some of you. While I can not guarantee that all needs can be met, I can guarantee that they will be prayed for and talked about among the Deacons/Deaconesses. I have watched that board pray and give to support many within and outside the church over the last year. They are faithful and wise to use the Lord’s money entrusted to them for His kingdom purposes and caring His people. If you have a need please contact me or the church offices. That is why we are a body…a family, because we are called to love and help each other.

This update could go on forever. There is so much more to be said but this is enough for now. I will continue to update you in coming days. Please continue to check your emails, social media, and the church website. Please play your role by spreading the info to everyone, praying for each other, and abiding in Christ as we walk hand in hand with Him and each other as we wade these waters together. Let us rest in the fact that He who knew this storm would arise is the same who can call it by name and shut it down when He chooses to do so.

I love you. 

For His Name’s sake, 

Brock 

Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen. Jude 1:24-25

LBC UPDATE: October 16, 2020

Greetings LBC Family, October 16, 2020

Looking outside our windows we are blessed to see the beautiful signs of deeply transitioning into Fall. It won’t be long before the leaves are off the trees and we begin to see snow accumulating in our yards and all around. I love the changing seasons because of their beauty and because they each remind me of the power and promises of The Lord. He is faithful to His word. 

"As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease.” Gen. 8:22

Unfortunately one season that is not changing as quickly as we would like is the current one we find ourselves in relation to Covid-19 and all of the regulations and stipulations that come along with it. I think I speak for most, if not all of us, in saying that we are ready for this to end and for things to get back to, “normal.” That is perhaps the one truth that is hardest to swallow. Normal may never look normal again. This past week during our prayer time we were reminded of a message that God delivered to His people through the prophet Jeremiah. It was recorded in Jeremiah 29. God was reminding Jeremiah & His people that while He was certainly still in charge He never promised to deliver them back to normal or the way things used to be for them. He did however promise to continue to lead and provide for them. I pray that as we continue to live out these difficult days without knowing when or if they will end we can find great comfort and joy in knowing that the God who redeemed us by the blood of His son is still very much in control and on the move for His glory and our eternal good. 

There are several things that I want to remind or update you about as we transition into colder days and these final months of 2020. If you have questions or concerns about anything please don’t hesitate to contact me. 

• Let’s start with the obvious. We are still under health guidelines as mandated by our Governor. This affects just about every aspect of our gatherings and usage of facilities. To keep it short we are still fully masked and socially distanced during worship services. We are still not having traditional Sunday school classes nor is their child care provided at this time. There are a few bible studies happening on campus during the week but we are still not hosting any outside groups at this time. 

• There are two “in person” services each Sunday. 8:30 & 10:30. They are the exact same. We are only allowed to have 56 people in the Sanctuary/Overflow area at one time and as to date that has worked out well. If an issue arises we will deal with that as we go. We will continue to post all services to the internet by Sunday afternoon. They will be posted to the church website, Facebook, and Youtube pages. (Thank you for your patience as I got all of those details worked out. We are back on track now.)  We are currently going through a series called, “The Stories of Genesis.” I know that many of you are still remaining away from gathering in person b/c of safety and health issues. Please know I fully support you. For others of you I know that it is much easier to simply watch at home. If you are comfortable gathering at this time I’d like to invite you back. I miss seeing you! Just know that we are taking every step to remain as cautious and safe as possible during this time. 

• I want to personally thank you for your faithfulness over the past 8 months. Your giving has remained steady and honorable to The Lord. He has proven so good to us through this difficult time and the many others we have seen in the past. He provides to us as individuals and you have been faithful to be a conduit of blessing to His local church at LBC. I know that many of you have given through the online giving format and as you know that has been disrupted for quite some time. I assure you that it is being worked on and will be taken care of asap. I am still collecting your mailed in tithes and offerings and placing them directly into the plates on Sunday mornings. Thank you again for your faithfulness. 

• There have been some that have asked if we are still meeting daily for online/over phone prayer times. Yes, and I have loved every second of it!! The times are: 

Mondays        10 am           Zoom

Tuesdays          7 pm          Zoom

Wednesdays     2 pm          Zoom 

Thursdays         7 pm          Zoom

Fridays              2 pm          In sanctuary    (Praying for entire roll of LBC)

Saturdays        10 am          Zoom

• One of the upcoming studies will be a full year of reading and studying the Bible Chronologically. Many have already signed up for that class and I will be contacting by the middle of next week to get some info so we can choose a meeting day and time. If you would like to be part of getting that info (not a commitment…yet) please contact me asap. 

• The last update I want to include is one about a change that is coming. This may be of little interest to you but some have asked so I want to let you know why the change is occurring. For many years LBC has used the New International Version (NIV) as the translation of choice on Sunday mornings. I have been using this version since I arrived as well. I love this translation b/c it is true to the originals but also easily readable. However that specific translation has in the recent years updated from their 1984 version. Some of the changes that took place create some unnecessary hard situations and questionable usages of certain English terms. While I won’t go anywhere near calling this a false translation or heretical I just believe there is a better one available for me to preach from at LBC. In a few weeks I will be transitioning to the English Standard Version (ESV). This is the version I have used for 2020 in my daily devotions (I used the NIV for the past 16 years) and I love it. It is a very trustworthy translation and still readable. Like any translations there are times when English just doesn’t quite cut it when talking about Hebrew, Greek, & Aramaic words. As before I will always make a point to clarify in those times. Again I don’t want you to think this is a gigantic issue but if you a notice a difference between the version I’m reading and preaching from and the one you have that is why. 

At the beginning of this newsletter I mentioned Jeremiah 29. I want to close with perhaps one of the most popular verses from the scriptures which is also from that chapter. 

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

While this original statement was made to the Jewish people it also applies to born again Christians. We don’t get to claim all of the promises that God made to the Israelites but we can claim this one. For He also knows the plans He has for us. In Christ Jesus they are good plans of eternal prosperity, no more harm, and a glorious hope and future with him forever in Heaven, our eternal home. Despite what we see on our televisions and in our communities let us hold to the perfect blessings we have from our Father in Heaven because of the death and resurrection of His Son and our Savior, Jesus Christ. 

For His Name’s sake, 

Brock 

901.351.4979 cell

pastorlbchurch@gmail.com 

LBC UPDATE: October 2, 2020

Dear LBC Family & Friends, 

I can not believe that we are already to October! As I have said many times before I have so looked forward to celebrating my first “real” Fall as a resident of New Jersey. From what I am seeing it is well worth all of the hype it has received. 

As I look back over the 6+ months that have been radically altered by Covid-19 I am amazed at how different things look. Far more than any of us could have possibly imagined back in early March. While we could certainly spend much time discussing all of the difficulties that we have walked through I would like to point out a few of the blessings we have received during this time. 

God has provided! As I have met with the leadership we have all been amazed at the faithfulness and over all blessing of God’s providential hand during this difficult season. It only takes a brief look at the news to see that many are in an incredibly difficult place due to this season. We need not only pray for them but also look for ways that we can bless them and care for them with what God has allowed us to steward. I praise God for you LBC, for it was you that God used to filter His blessings onto us as a congregation. You have found ways to continue to give and trust The Lord during these hard times. 

Babies babies babies! Psalm 127:3 tells us that, “Children are a gift from The Lord.” Ledgewood and her families have had an overflowing cup during the past few months. I praise God for all the new babies born into our family and for the families that are welcoming in these precious little ones. Let us commit to pray together for each family as they adjust to this blessing and difficult responsibility. 

Praying together. I have so enjoyed the gift of praying together with you since my first Sunday here in January. Whether it be stopping in the middle of service to pray communally, gathering online to pray and praise, or gathering on Friday afternoons to present the names of each in the congregation to The Lord it is truly a blessing. There is truly nothing better that we could do together as a church family and nothing more important for The Kingdom. As a church we will either live or die on our prayerfulness. I am thankful to link arms with you daily, “and approach boldly the throne room of grace.” What a great privilege we have been given in and for the name and sake of Jesus. 

There are so many more things that I would like to update you about and I will be doing so more frequently through newsletter again. I appreciate the grace you have extended me as I too have had to adjust to new schedules and the difficulties of life in this strange time. A few things have been worked out and several are on the mend with solutions quickly approaching. 

• The website and YouTube issues have been worked out. I am grateful to both Mike Ventura & Lou Piccirillo for their support to me as I have had to learn to post and edit things to both. As of today I believe both are up to date and starting Sunday I will once again begin posting all messages to Facebook, YouTube, and the church website. Please once again make sure and share those messages so that everyone will be up to date on current sermon series. 

• Paypal or online tithing is currently down but is being worked on. We had some issues arise with these and while most of it is fixed there are still some kinks to work out. Those are currently being worked on and I will let you know as soon as it is all done. Thank you for understanding!

• Ministry events are still greatly limited on campus. We still have both (identical) services at 8:30 & 10:30 on Sunday mornings so that we can remain within guidelines but that is all for Sundays. There is currently no plan for traditional Sunday school nor nursery at this time. Updates will come as soon as available. There are several on campus and in home Bible studies occurring or starting during this season. IF you lead or attend one of those please make sure to send your info and I will get it posted in the weekly bulletin. You have probably already done this but help me out and send it again please. 

• The holidays are swiftly approaching. I assure you that my hope and prayer is that we will be back to normal when those times and services arise. However I can not promise that and will give ample time with updates about those services as we approach. 

I would like to close this update with a request. I would like to call us as a congregation to a state of specific prayer. You have no doubt seen the angst, anger, and hatred that is spewed around with no second thought in our nation and world. This current political season has only made things worse. I would like us to pray for our leaders, by name, daily. As I write this President Trump and his wife Melania have tested positive for the virus and are being moved to a hospital for care. Regardless of where you or I stand politically we are commanded to pray for our leaders in this nation. Let us do that! Let us pray that they would come to know Jesus personally, be filled with His Spirit, and lead as the Lord guides them. This country needs no less than a radical revival and awakening and our leaders surrendering to Jesus could only help in ushering that in. I look forward to joining you as we beseech The Father on behalf of our leaders and nation. To God be The Glory!

For His Name’s sake,
Brock 

“Every true revival has had its earthly origin in prayer.” R.A. Torrey

LBC Tuesday June 23, 2020 Update

LBC Family,

It is once again a blessing to greet you in the name of The Lord Jesus. Each day that we have on this earth reminds us of many things but two that I would like to share here.

1. God is still good and merciful to us and He blesses us beyond measure. One thing that I often forget is that I am owed nothing but death and condemnation. Yet b/c of the great love that The Father showed to us in the sacrificial death of His son, Jesus, you and I can live today knowing that “there is no longer any condemnation for those of us in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 8:1) We also know that not only is there no longer any condemnation but that each day we are gifted with is “full of new mercies” from our great Father in Heaven. (Lamentations 3:22-23)

2. We have a task to do because of the goodness. We must praise God for His loving kindness. I pray that today you take the time and opportunity to thank Him for all that He has done and is doing. We also have the privilege of taking that gospel message to our family, friends, neighbors, and all that we encounter. The world desperately needs some good news and hope right now and we as the “ambassadors of God” (2 Cor. 5:20) have just the news and message that is so needed.

This past Sunday it was wonderful to see many of your faces and hear your voices as we prayed and sang together. I am so grateful that each of you endured the difficulties of distancing and constant mask wearing for the sake of each other. There is no question that this was difficult and a foreign feeling, but I know that you did it to honor The Lord and care for your neighbor. I am grateful, The Lord is pleased.

For those that did not attend for reasons that need no justifying I hope and pray that you enjoyed worshiping together with us from your homes. I look forward to the day when we can all be together, but I fully understand that many of you don’t have that option at this time for many reasons. I want to affirm you again. You don’t need my permission, but I support your decisions. Pray and ask The Lord for His wisdom and leading in this and obey His voice. You are His children; we are His church. He is faithful and trustworthy to lead you and all of us well.

Until there are further announcements or changes from local/state/federal officials we will continue services as they occurred this past weekend. The pews will be sectioned off, masks will remain, classrooms will be closed, and all other aspects will continue for safety purposes. At this time, we will continue to only have our large group worship and no Sunday school classes, kids church (in house), or nursery. These services will be at 8:30 & 10:30 until future updates.

As the updates come and discussions continue among leadership here at LBC, I will make sure to update you on any changes that may occur. Again, I invite and appreciate any feedback you may have, and my contact info is listed below. I love this local body and I am grateful to call you family and friends. I hope to see you Sunday or as soon as possible.

For His Name’s sake,
Brock Sund
901.351.4979 cell
pastorlbchurch@gmail.com

LBC Wednesday June 16, 2020 Special Message

Dear LBC Church Family,

It is with great excitement and after much prayer that I am finally able to update you about the blessing of once again gathering in person and on campus for worship. We will begin having services on campus this coming up Sunday, June 21, 2020. Fathers’ Day. There are many details that I will list out in just a few minutes but first let me answer a few questions and make a few statements. As always please know that if you have any concerns or questions after reading this don’t hesitate to give me a call on my cell or email me.

- We will continue to adhere to all health guidelines that have been laid out for us by local and federal governments. Like we have gotten used to this will continue to change regularly so stay tuned in to your email, social media, and church sites for this changing info.

- The decisions that have been made and the ones to be made are all done by seeking the counsel of many different leaders. This consists of both leadership inside and outside of the church body. I am grateful to all of you that have walked with me through this difficult process you are such a blessing. Roger Clark (Trustee chair) & Mike Conroy (Deacon Chair) you two guys have been invaluable to to me and have both been great friends and brothers in this whole process. You are a blessing to me and the body at Ledgewood. (Please make a point to thank these brothers for all of their work when you see them.)

- Church family you guys have shown so much patience, grace, and kindness during this time. I am grateful for each and every one of you and the way you have handled this horrible time in a Christian manor. However we are not out of the woods just yet and we may have even just entered the most difficult part. I beg of you that you continue to show patience, grace, understanding, and selflessness as we wade through this new patch of uncharted waters. I have no doubt that you will and for that I am grateful.

- I am fully aware that many of you may have reasons for not being ready to begin gathering. Perhaps you are just not quite sure or comfortable. It could be that you have underlying health issues. It could even be that you may read some details here that are the determining factor for you and the decision to not attend is what is best for you and your family. I sincerely want you to know that I love you and I support your decision. In Christ you have been given the eternal Spirit of God and if you will seek Him then He will lead you and your family correctly in this process. Follow His lead, have no doubts, I am excited to see you when I get the chance to do so in the future. You may also find that at some point in the service that you are uncomfortable with being there. Again don’t hesitate to do what you deem necessary and if that is leaving at any point please feel no guilt and do what you need to.

- All online sermons, updates, and other things that have taken place during this time will continue until further notice. Nothing will change with these. RE-Gathering Details for June 21, 2020 (All future Sundays unless notified differently)

- Service times will be at 8:30 & 10:30. These will be identical services in format, music, and sermon. - We will be fully masked at all times in the building. Please bring your own personal mask with you and make sure to put it on and keep it on for the duration of being indoors. If you do not have a mask we have a limited amount that we can offer to you. There will also be hand sanitizer located throughout the building. Please use it often.

- There will be some pews sectioned off and groupings of chairs placed around the sanctuary in order to keep us 6 ft apart. Please find the spot that best works for you and any family that you may have with you. Please use your best judgment in picking your spot and use only the size section or pew that you need.

- These worship services will be the only Ledgewood Baptist events taking place on Sundays at LBC. No Sunday school classes, nursery, kids church, nor any other breakouts will happen until further notice is given. I will have those rooms marked as closed in order to cut down on the amount of cleaning that must take place after each service.

- Sadly no food nor coffee will be provided for this season either. I will also mark off the water fountains so please bring a water bottle of your own if you’d like.

- All pew bibles and hymnals will be removed until a later date. I will print bulletins with all of the lyrics and any other pertinent info that you need and have them laying on pews and chairs waiting for you. Please take them and throw them away when you leave. Please bring your own personal bible as well.

- We will continue doing the offering in the same way we have been over the past few months. I will also have a small designated box that I will point out and if you’d like you can drop your tithes/offerings in it when you leave.

- There will be men in the parking lot giving some guidance on entering in order to keep us from bunching up at doorways. At the end of service I will dismiss pews and sections in order to do the same.

- Perhaps the hardest part of the whole process is the lack of greeting, hugging, and the Lord’s supper during this time. I truly grieve for this. However I truly believe that part of the Shepherd’s task is to protect the sheep during dangerous times and to lead them to a safe place. Please know that all of these decisions are made in that frame of mind.

It is a lot. I know. Perhaps it is overkill and I am fully aware that it probably is. However I am much more comfortable with overkill and preparing the safest possible scenario than I am the idea of being reckless and possibly putting any of you or your families in harm’s way. I am not sure I can fully explain how thankful I am that The Lord has led us together. I have watched Him do such an amazing amount of work over these past 6 months that we’ve been together and I look forward to that which is to come. It is going to be incredible!!

I love you guys and I can’t wait to see you soon. Please forward this message, make some calls, and spread the word so that all of our brothers and sisters at LBC are fully informed.

For His Name’s sake,
Brock
901.351.4979 cell
Philippians 1:8-9

LBC June 5, 2020 Update Message

Dear LBC Family,

What a difficult update this is to send you. Three months ago when our lives were all radically changed by the Coronavirus I never thought we’d find ourselves in the midst of another nationwide hard place. Yet, he we are. The book of Ecclesiastes makes it abundantly clear that there is a time for all things. Meaning that there is a time to be silent and a time to speak up. After listening, waiting, learning, and praying I believe now is the time for me to speak up about this current situation that is plaguing our nation. Let me begin with assuring you that this does not come from a political stance or place. I, like you, have my political views and I am doing my best to not let those guide me nor my words but to instead let the Spirit & Word of God to guide me, my words, and my political stances. This is difficult with simmering emotions but crucial for God’s people to do as we live in a dark world and let our light shine among men. I want to let a very familiar verse guide this update and my thoughts in this letter.

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
2 Chronicles 7:14

• One thing we must always be careful of is to make sure that we do not miss the true context of a verse. The only way to do this is to read a whole passage rather than cherry pick a verse. We must then study what is actually going on in that passage using other passages. This verse is immediately after David’s son, Solomon, had dedicated the temple of The Lord. God immediately began telling Solomon that there would come a day when His people would turn their backs on Him and they would have spiritual and physical consequences. One of those physical consequences was that God said he would stop the rains which was detrimental to an agricultural society. (7:13) He then begins to share how they could only find deliverance from these consequences if they followed His laid out steps and commands.

• Notice the multiple, “ands.” This means something in scripture. When the usage of “and” is laid out like this it means, “also and.” Which means that all of these things had to occur simultaneously if God’s people would see deliverance and revival.

• While this is specifically written to the Hebrew people for a specific time we can glean much from it as we are also God’s people and He does not change nor does His character.

• This verse is speaking to God’s people. Meaning that we can not escape that many of the negative things plaguing our world and nation right now are consequences of our sinfulness. This is certainly a hard pill to swallow but it is a necessary one. God is talking to us. IF we are to see revival and lasting blessing then we must do as he says. All of it.

1. “Called by His name.” We must remember who and who’s we are. In Christ we lose all other identifiers. I am fully aware that each of us has a nationality, a race, a sex, and many other classifications but those can no longer be what defines us nor what guides us. The Apostle Paul makes this beyond clear in Galatians 3:28. This is not a call to hate these other things but we must not hang our hat on them any longer. IF our worldview is the American Dream & not the Kingdom of God then we are in sin and headed in the wrong direction. Repentance is required. Not only did Jesus tell us that we can not serve two masters but He also said that if we are His disciples then we must take up our cross and die. Personal liberties and freedoms die on death row. I am thankful that I was raised in this land with these freedoms but far be it from God’s people that we are more hung up on our temporary liberties and rights than our eternal security in Christ.

2. Humble themselves. Tim Keller wrote in his book, “The Freedom of Self Forgetfulness” that we are not to think more of ourselves or less of ourselves as both are forms of idolatry but instead we are to think of ourselves less. This is humility. We are to let our minds dwell on God, His ways, His kingdom and not ourselves or all of the temporary things that surround us.

3. Pray. We must talk to God. One of the teenagers at church has one of the most beautiful basketball shots I’ve ever seen. I watch him make shot after shot on unbalanced goals in the gym. How does he do it. Repetition. Shot after shot after shot. So many people say that they don’t know how to pray. All I can tell you is that the teenager I am speaking of had to take a first shot, and then a second, a third and so on. Risk the shot. Pause now and just talk to God. Yes, you might feel crazy but who cares, it’s a crazy world. Tell Him your thoughts (he already knows them so it should be easy), tell him your needs, fears, confusions. Ask him to care for you and others around you. Go big. Ask for the moon, it is His you know. Trust Him to answer correctly. Listen for the answer. Seek it in His word. Wake up tomorrow and do it again. Eventually you will pray like Joshua, Daniel, & Moses. They were just people like you and me. It was God that was so amazing. The same God you can talk to right now. Take the shot.

4. Seek His face. This will seem strange after reading that last part. This calls us to just be with God, not ask Him for anything. There is a time for asking but God wants us to notice Him first. Asking for something is seeking His hand. Looking into His face means we are just dwelling/abiding with Him. This again takes work, time, and a place. Again it is necessary and crucial for the healing we seek and need. Get away from it all and be with God. Take a walk. Go fishing. Look out of your window. Cut the grass. Take a moment in the midst and just recognize God. A great book that may help with this is, “Practicing the presence of God” by Brother Andrew. He found God’s presence in the smallest of tasks like washing dishes and b/c of that He was constantly full of joy and no longer had small tasks b/c God was in the midst of them. Doesn’t that sound glorious?

5. Turn from our wicked ways. This is where things get really tough. We have wicked ways. All of us, all of the time. Even after we have been reborn through the blood of Christ. One of those is that we are so often quiet in the face of injustice. I can almost feel your tension as I write this to you. Injustice abounds in our land. It always has. Racism, greed, hatred, bullying, destruction….the list could go on forever. Biblical justice is people living right with God, each other, and the natural creation. Basically perfection…holiness. I have so many thoughts and words for these areas and I know they will come in future days but for now let’s stick to the text. If it is silence to injustice we must speak up. Turn. If it is racism we must repent, love God & love others. Turn. If it is sexual sin we must repent and be pure. Turn. If it is holding a grudge we must forgive. Turn. We must allow the Lord to search our hearts, show us our wicked ways, repent, and turn back to Christ.

• The promise. God will hear, He will forgive, and He will heal. Again this is where things get tricky. We must trust God to do His work in His way. His ways are different and higher than our ways. No doubt that we have all prayed for God to heal someone or work out a scenario and it didn’t turn out how we might have wished. Part of trusting God is trusting His ways. God will revive His people. He will heal (change) our land. It will be different. We must not find our comfort in the way things used to be. Revival never leaves things unchanged and how they once were. We can not grasp for revival and also “the good old days.” Before we walk out these steps listed above we were not in the good old days. We were in sin, our land was dying, and we were in the midst of punishment and consequence.

My friends I have already stated an obvious truth in this really long letter. These are difficult days. My heart is heavy. I miss you. The virus. The death. The injustice. It is so very heavy. My heart aches for the families who have suffered loss. Whether it be from the virus, from the hands of a rogue police officer, or from someone who had no interest in justice but instead just wanted vengeance and destruction. Our land is hurting. Our nation needs Christ. The world needs Jesus. For those of us washed by His blood we are the light of the world. We must shine. We must stand up, speak up, and act according to God’s word. He is faithful and He will do His task. Let us seek His face, His hand, His ways all for His glory and our well being.

In coming days I look so forward to regathering with you. I am sorry that I am putting this info at the bottom of this long letter but to be honest the info above far surpasses this information. We, His people, need revival much more than we need to be together. This doesn’t mean that I am not looking forward to being with you I just know that we need to be whole and alive when that reconvening takes place. I have had multiple conversations with deacons, trustees, and numerous other counselors over the past few weeks. At this time we have set a hopeful date of having some sort of “on campus” gathering at June 21. Father’s Day.

I realize that this is still several weeks out but our Governor is set to make another announcement on June 12 with information that will hopefully allow more restrictions to be lifted on how and when we gather. Please remember that things will not look normal for a long time. There will be great change to how things are done. They may never look like they used to. I beg your understanding, grace, and prayers.

I will have a much more detailed update to you after Governor Murphy makes his announcements. Please continue to pray and ask the Lord to prepare your hearts for whatever it is that is coming our way. I yearn to worship in your presence again. We will get there but we must get there together. I am grateful for you Ledgewood Baptist. Thank you for taking the time to read this really long update. I love you and I will see you soon.

For His Name’s sake, Brock
pastorlbchurch@gmail.com
901.351.4979 cell

** I know you have thoughts. You may even disagree with some or all of what you’ve just read. Please know that I value your voice and your opinion. Call me. Email me. Let’s talk. I assure you I’ve got more questions than answers but I want to hear from you. **

LBC May 14, 2020 Update Message

LBC Family,  

This is the newsletter format of the video update that has also been sent out today. I will do my best to keep things as close to the video including all of the info but also keeping it short. That video can be viewed on the church Facebook, youtube, and website.  

There are two different things that I wanted to update you on and to ask for your prayers about.  

1.    Lord’s Supper: As you have certainly noticed by this point we have not taken or celebrated communion in several weeks. We have only done so twice since all of the quarantine stuff has taken place and that was on Facebook live. We had a great turnout and I believe that many enjoyed that format. In all honesty I am torn about leading us to take of the covenant meal in this way. I am struggling on knowing if this is something that we should be doing in that way. Of course, the scriptures do not speak about online communion so I am doing my best to hear The Lord’s voice and His lead in this. I am seeking the counsel of other pastors, friends, and church leaders. I am asking you to specifically pray for me that I would clearly hear from The Father and lead us well in this. I will update you guys sometime next week.  

2.    Gathering together:   As of yesterday, May 13, the NJ Governor has stated that churches are allowed to begin having “drive up” services. Now as you would expect there are many stipulations that go along with that. We would really be left with two options. The first is that we park in cars that are at least 6 feet apart and we have the option to “get out” or “open up” our vehicles. There is no word on being allowed to sit in chairs or picnic style blankets around vehicles, so I am assuming that still falls under other active executive orders that say not to do that. The next option is that we park cars in every spot and next to each other and keep all windows and sunroofs closed. We could use a radio transmitter to broadcast the sermon into your car audio system. However, we would not be allowed to exit vehicles, greet each other, or even roll down windows according to these guidelines. There is no doubt that at this point you already have some very strong held opinions about the situation and even reading about these options probably spikes those. I am asking that you pray for me and other church leadership as we seek to make the right decisions during this time. Please know that the desire of all of us is to be back together in person as we worship. That day will come but we are not there yet. I am already in contact with the trustees and deacons and discussing our future steps.  

I want to end this update by reminding you of a few things. If the quarantine and separation gave great potential to cause disunity in the body the re-gathering will have even greater potential. You guys have done beautifully in the way that you have lived out the Holy calling as Christ’s church during these past weeks. We are all tired and ready for this to be over. Those emotions, our opinions, and all of the other personal baggage that each of us carries will play into this. We must fight for unity and do all that we can to honor The Lord by staying one united front during this time.  

We must keep things in right order as we seek to come back together. 

1.    We must honor and obey The Lord in this as in all things.
2.    We must continue to grow in grace and knowledge of The Lord.
3.    We must use wisdom and seek to keep all of God’s people as safe as possible.
4.    According to Romans 13 & 1 Peter 2 we must submit to the government.  
                          (This is only to be broken if the gov’t is asking us to sin against The Lord.)

I am begging you to pray for wisdom and show patience as all of this takes place. Stay focused on the things that matter rather than the format by which they are celebrated. Jesus is Lord, He is still on His throne, & we are still His beloved church. Nothing can separate us from those truths or His love.  

We will eventually gather together again and in all likelihood, it will look different than before and will be other than what any of us are comfortable with. It is for things like this that The Lord has given us His spirit. We can and must handle this and all things with grace and joy because of the hope we have in Christ and His resurrection.  

As you pray and dig into the scriptures please do not hesitate to contact me if you have counsel, concerns, or questions. Please also make sure that if you have not emailed me (since this all began) with your most recent contact info please do that so that we can make sure to get you all necessary info. Please also think about anyone that may not have the capability to receive either this letter or the video update and pass it all on to them.  

I am so very grateful for you guys. I praise The Lord for the blessing it is to serve the

Church here at Ledgewood. I have seen His hand in this whole thing and I know that His strong hand will continue to lead us if we will seek Him, His wisdom and His plan, all for His glory.  

I love you guys and I will see you soon.  
For His Name’s sake,  
Brock  
901.351.4979 pastorlbchurch@gmail.com

LBC May 2020

LBC Family & Friends,

 It has been quite some time since I have sent out an update in this fashion. I ask that you please forgive the lapse and know that while no newsletters have come the prayers for you have continued. One of the difficulties has been not having any new information to share with you so I will use this letter to serve as a reminder for previously stated things.

 1)      As of now we still do not have an estimated date of when we will begin having services in the building. I assure you that not only am I greatly looking forward to that day I am also paying close attention to all possible news to make a wise and healthy decision. I fully expect us to have some notice before that expected date arrives as well as some “guidelines” given to us. I ask you to continue to pray for our government leaders as well as myself and church leadership that we would clearly hear from The Lord in these matters.

2)      As this season of life continues on it will weigh heavier on some than others. We all need help at times. Perhaps you need to talk or pray. I personally would be happy to come to  your home and stand in your front yard to pray for you/with you and also enjoy a conversation. My info is at the bottom. Call/email/text and I will make it happen. Perhaps your need is financial. If you find yourself in need please do not hesitate to let me know. The church body can not help you if we do not know. We want to help, let us help.

 3)      I have repeatedly seen a picture online that says, “The Church has not closed, it has simply left the building.” Not only do I love and support this message, I pray and hope that when we begin to gather again we don’t lose that sentiment. Let us always be known as a people who are on the go for glory of The Lord and the redemption of many. Even now we still  have many ways to do that.

a.  Pray, call, send, share.

Continue praying for one another. Daily. Keep a running list of prayer requests and names from the church, family members, government officials and present them to The Lord. What a great privilege we have to pray, let us not squander it. Call each other and check in. A phone call and a different voice can greatly lift the spirits as we are all quarantined away from each other. Send letters, meals, and goods. Delivery services are thriving right now and this is not only a way to help keep many employed it is also a way to encourage and bless each other.

You can also share the good news. I am only one of the many people sending out Bible messages and worship songs each week. When you get them send them on to others that they may also be blessed.

 b.  Remember those on the field

 This pandemic has disrupted the whole globe. However what it has not done is it has  not necessarily brought home all of the missionaries serving in foreign lands. I praise God for that. Just like we have seen The Lord use this for His redemptive purposes here I fully expect Him to do the same among the nations. God’s heart is for the nations. One of these families that we support and need to continue to support is the Gibello family. (Caleb, Melissa, Elijah, Bella) Please pray for them by name every day. Please also pray and ask The Lord how you may be led to support them. We recently called for a drive to supply some of the goods that they need and want as they settle into life long ministry   in Papua New Guinea. If you can get or have any of the goods listed here please consider donating to this family that has answered the call to go. I will have a large container outside of the gym for collection. If you are able please bring them by and  drop them off at your convenience. Please just call or email me so I can be looking for them so I can move them to a more secure location. I have listed many of the items but you can also use the link to see a longer list of things that would bless them as they establish “home” in PNG. I am sure they would also love a card or letter of encouragement.

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1L3E3V5DKAX7D/ref=cm_go_nav_hz

Dehydrated or freeze dried fruit
Beef Jerky
Good quality tough bandaids
Medical gloves
Ant traps
On-Guard toothpaste
Vanilla
Kid crafts
Elderberry syrup
Oregano oil (Oregenal brand)
Wrist watches (we give them as gifts to the villagers)
M&Ms, Mike & Ike candy, Skittles, Good & Plenty, Runts, Sour Patch Flavored teas
LED solar camping lights
Zarbee's infant cough med
children's underwear (sizes 4, 6, 8, 10) this is for the kids in the village.
Emergency vitamin C packets
Propel packets
Lara bars or protein bars

4)  Remember to join in as we remain a body in this difficult time. The tie that binds us together is the blood of the New Covenant that Christ Jesus shed on the cross. We are having daily prayer times on Zoom and there are multiple messages (sermons/devotions/songs) that go out each week. Please let those partner with your daily bible reading and personal prayer time to nurture that which Christ began in you. When the day comes let us reconvene as a body on fire with the zeal of The Lord.

As you can see that while I understand that this is a difficult time I do not think that it is an inactive time. God never stops working and there are far too many left to hear of His glorious gospel for us to stop working either. On the day that we all stand before Jesus none of us will declare that we did too much for the kingdom we will only wish we did more. I am so grateful to link arms with you here at Ledgewood as we seek to make much of Jesus among the peoples. I love you all and I can’t wait to see you.

“I will give thanks to you, O Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” Psalm 9:1

For His Name’s sake, Brock
901.351.4979
pastorlbchurch@gmail.com

LBC April 2020

Hello Church family,

I want to open with a bit of honesty if I may. I am so grateful for all the ways that we can communicate with each other from afar. I can’t imagine living in a day when these things were not available. However, I miss seeing your faces and being together as we worship The Lord and learn more about Him through His word. I can’t imagine how sweet it will be to come back together as a body when all this passes on. I yearn for that day!!

It is actually quite hard to write this newsletter without knowing where we actually stand in the middle of this virus outbreak. I don’t know what current events, news, or medical trends will look like as you read this. So let me just share something that I know will apply to whatever situation we find ourselves in.

I recently began looking back through the book of Genesis because I find it so encouraging and interesting. It is such a good read and full of so many reminders of God’s character toward a struggling and sinful people. I highly suggest it.

I was reading through the story of Joseph at the end of the book and was reminded of something incredible. GOD IS ALWAYS WORKING AND HE IS ALWAYS SAVING AND REDEEMING!

Joseph had been through so much. Fractured family relationships, betrayal, sold into slavery, hard work, temptation, lied about, abused, forgotten, jailed, culture shock, basically anything bad you and I could think of. Toward the end of the story, in Genesis 50:20, we see this incredible line and truth, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”

Now I don’t have the right to disregard the context of what is taking place here. These were words spoken from Joseph to his brothers, about living during a famine. However this doesn’t remove the ability for us to use what we know about God’s character from the scriptures and apply this truth and these words to our lives and situation today.

We have an enemy and he is like a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8) who is coming to steal, kill, and destroy. (John 10:10) This is all he does and he is always doing it. He is constantly seeking to harm or tear down. In His infinite goodness and complete knowledge of all things past and present God is currently allowing it….and even using it for His purposes to accomplish His will.

God’s goal in all of Joseph’s hardships was saving lives. He achieved that. In our day He is interested in the same. God is in the business of saving lives. Physical lives, yes, but even more than that He is interested in eternal and forever life, for everyone. (2 Peter 3:9)

His main method of saving people and granting eternal life is by sending His word out to them and knowing that it will do what it is supposed to. It will not return to Him void! (Isaiah 55:10-11) I am not sure about you, but I have been paying attention to social media trends since this whole virus/quarantine thing came to be. The one thing that stands out is the vast amount of posted scriptures, sermons being preached, prayer concerns, and praises. HIS WORD IS GOING OUT LIKE NEVER BEFORE!!!

I truly pray that as a child of God you take great joy in knowing that despite how today looks or feels that God is in control and He never veers away from perfection. He has this!! I am so grateful to be a part of His family because of the love He showed me through the death and resurrection of His son Jesus. For that reason, and regardless of where we currently find ourselves, if you are reading this then we have one task to do.

PRAISE HIM!!

For His Name’s sake,
Brock

“Nothing is a surprise to God; nothing is a setback to His plans; nothing can thwart His purposes; and nothing is beyond His control.”                                                - Joni Eareckson Tada

LBC March 2020

Greetings Church Family,

I write this message to you after officially finishing my first month of preaching here at Ledgewood. I can honestly say that it has been an incredible gift from The Lord to dig into His word with you weekly. I truly hope that each of you has heard clearly from The Father, as I have. We are beyond blessed to live in a place where we can open His word daily and meet corporately to worship out loud with no fear of repercussion. Let us not take this for granted and let us make sure to, "Praise God from whom all blessings flow."

I also write this message to you as I am reading through the book of Leviticus. I won't lie to you, it is tough most days. However, God is always faithful to illuminate some truth if I am faithful to allow Him the time to speak. What has struck me in recent days is just how gruesome, hard, and emotional the task of the priest was. One of the hardest tasks had to have been to overlook His countrymen and declare them as unclean when necessary. Can you imagine the dirty looks that guy got when he walked throughout the town? The main truth that stuck out to me in this way that it wasn't the priest's declaration that made this person unclean. The priest was just declaring out loud that which already was. He was walking in obedience and doing that which The Lord had commanded him to do. The priest knew this, the people knew this, but I am almost certain that if people are anything like they are in our day he wasn't given any awards for being the favorite neighbor or most liked around town.

At this point, you may be thinking that I am making some vague and passive attempt for you to feel sorry for me. However, let me clarify if you are thinking that. I am no priest by modern definitions but as far as scripture goes, we all are. 1 Peter 2:9 makes this crystal clear:

"You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a Holy nation, a people
for God's own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies
of Him who has called you out of the darkness into His marvelous light."

My point in all of this is to call us all to action. As brothers and sisters in The Lord let us speak truth to each other in love. When you see me step out of line, call me to account. When I see you venturing from the "narrow path" I will tell you. This will require great humility on all of our parts and each of us must also make sure to first remove our own "eye logs." (Mt. 7:3-5) before pointing out each other's specks.

Next, we are to go well beyond the walls here at 233 Main St. This community and world is quickly dying condemned and separated from the eternal forgiveness offered in Jesus Christ alone. Romans 10 declares that they can not confess unless they are told. Let us tell them.

Remember that like the priests in the olden days two things will be true:

1. This will not make us popular and will come with many costs. Is Jesus worth it?

2. If we hold to the scriptures and declare what it says, and as it says, we are just proclaiming that which is already true. At that point, if someone has an issue it is with The Lord and not you. Live, love, and proclaim in freedom knowing that!

You will not know on this side of eternity how much I love you and this church family. What a blessing you are to me!
For His Name's sake,
Pastor Brock

"My desire to maintain a religious respectability could easily result in a domesticated faith."
-Richard J. Foster

LBC February 2020

Dear Ledgewood Family,

It feels so wonderful to finally be able to say/type those words as a resident of New Jersey and a member of this body. I have yearned for this time that has finally arrived.

I have so many thoughts and emotions as I begin this season of life with you all. The one thing that all of this has made extremely clear is that I am in way over my head. While this may seem like a negative view or may even cause you some concern the truth is that it should give all of us great hope. I know that the best I can do for myself, my family, and for each of you is to remember that I have been called to a task that far outweighs me. Knowing that will require much prayer, a deep and growing dependence on The Lord, and much teamwork and partnership. I am grateful that we have a great King that will provide all that is needed to me and all of us as we seek Him in humility, truth, and joy.

There are so many things that I want to say to you in this first newsletter, but I know the title of this is, “A message from the Pastor” and not, “A novel from the Pastor.” Let me do my best to summarize in these next few lines.

-   God has given me such a great love for you as a body and as individuals. I am grateful for this and look forward to having that love grow as we worship, celebrate, grow, mourn, and seek Him together.

-   We have a great need for The Lord. This seems like such an obvious thing to say but if you’re anything like me, my actions often say much different. Let us spur one another on as we    pursue Christ in a daily reading of His word, pray for self and each other, and true fellowship of the believers which is only done as we gather for the purpose of worshipping The Lord.

-   The world is hungry for truth. It takes no time at all to see that every person on the planet is looking for good news and peace. Praise God that He has blessed us with the only peace that is available through salvation in His son, Jesus. As those who are walking in peace let us also be advocates for others to know. In seminary we sang a song daily with these lines,

                   “To all the world for Jesus’ sake
                    Where bodies hurt and sad hearts ache
                    Lift high the cross, His love proclaim
                   _____________ bear His Name!!”

     Let us fill that blank in with Ledgewood Baptist as we go out for His glory!

-   Let us not get bogged down. There is not one of us reading this (or writing it) that doesn’t struggle with past failures, dwell in past successes, dream of future days, or drift off into daydreams. Ledgewood has seen wonderful days and God has blessed her greatly. It is truly humbling to walk in the shadows of those that have come before me. However let us not live in the land of what used to be, but instead “let us leave what is behind and press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called us heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13-14)

-   For years I have been challenged by the words of Christ to His church in Revelation 3. “I wish that you were either hot or cold, but because you are lukewarm, I will spit you out of my mouth.” This letter to Christians is frightening stuff. This means that each of us has the potential to straddle the fence or just play the game. Let it not be so!! Let each of us fully commit to The Lord Jesus and His church for His glory. This will require much of each of us, but Jesus is so very worth it.

My prayer is that you read this as I wrote it and as I take it myself. This newsletter is a challenge to all of us. I look forward to embarking on the adventure arm in arm as we praise “Him who is able to keep us from stumbling and to present us before His glorious presence without fault and with great joy.” (Jude 24)

For His Name’s sake,
Pastor Brock

“We talk and talk of the Second Coming of Christ, when half of the world has never heard

LBC January 2020 - All Good Things….

Greetings, Friends!

It has been my pleasure to serve as your Interim Pastor for the last eighteen months.  I believe God brought us together at a time during which we were both in need.  You needed someone to guide you through the interim process, and I needed a community in which to exercise my calling, and the gifts God has given me.  Thank you for providing that.  I hope I have been as effective in meeting your needs as you have been in meeting mine.

As 2019 ends, so does our time together.  I will be praying for you as you begin your journey with Pastor Sund and his family.  We value your prayers as we await what God has planned for us in 2020.

Since you have called a settled pastor, I need to kindly offer this reminder: We remain friends, but I will no longer be your pastor.  It’s a “tight rope” to walk, but as mature believers, I’m sure we’ll be able to handle it.  Respect your new relationship with Pastor Sund.

I’m going to miss all of you.  Thank you for a great year-and-a-half.

“May the Lord bless you and protect you.
May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you.
May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26)

Rich

LBC December 2019 - Thanksgiving

Greetings, Friends!

 Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee.  As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him.  They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!”

When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.”  And as they went, they were cleansed.

One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice.  He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan.

Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed?  Where are the other nine?  Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?”

Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.” (Luke 17:11-19, NIV)

 Jesus healed ten men.  But only one of them…a Samaritan, a distant cousin to the Jews with a murky past…came back to thank him.

In a few days, we will be celebrating Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving, for Americans, looks back to that time when God provided for our ancestors through hard winters, disease, and food shortages.  Our ancestors set aside a special time to thank God for all that He had done for them.

As we celebrate Thanksgiving, we, too look back and thank God for His providence and blessing upon the early settlers.  If it weren't for His providence then, we would not be here to celebrate His providence now.

But Thanksgiving is also a personal time for us as well.  A time that we make a little extra effort to remember all that God has done for us.  A time when we, like the Samaritan, make the effort to "go back to God" and thank Him for His presence in our lives.

It would be easy to lose sight of God in all our Thanksgiving festivities: dinner, reunions, football games, even church activities.  But that would leave us standing with the nine who were cleansed and joyous, yet neglected to thank the God who had made that possible.  Instead, let us be like the Samaritan who, when he realized he had been healed, did not hesitate to turn around and run back to Jesus and thank him.           All ten of those men had faith, or else they would not have cried out to Jesus.  But only one of them added the essential element of thanksgiving that was necessary for his complete healing to take place.

I would like to close with a few verses from Psalm 30.  Remember these words throughout this Thanksgiving holiday and on into Advent and Christmas.

Sing praise to the Lord , all his faithful people!
Remember what the Holy One has done, and give Him thanks!
His anger lasts only a moment, his goodness for a lifetime.
Tears may flow in the night, but joy comes in the morning.
You have changed my sadness into a joyful dance;
you have taken away my sorrow and surrounded me with joy.
So I will not be silent; I will sing praise to you.
Lord, you are my God;
I will give thanks to you forever.

 Pastor Rich

LBC November 2019 - Becoming Like Jesus

Greetings, Friends!

 In Ephesians 4:13-16, Paul says that when we live in unity with one another, we will grow in a very specific way: we will become like Jesus.

 “This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ.  Then we will no longer be immature like children.  We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching.  We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth” (vv. 13-14).

 The church is a maturing community.  In love, in compassion, in truth, in spiritual depth and knowledge, in all ways “measuring up to the full stature of Christ,” we are not supposed to remain static.  We are to grow.

 If you look at a family’s photo album, you can see how they all have grown over the years.  Some people start scrapbooks as soon as their children are born, and continue them through high school or college.  As you flip through the pages, you can see how the child has grown and matured at each stage along the way from infant to young adult.

 If we could somehow take a spiritual snapshot of ourselves as a church, how would we look compared to last year?  Five years ago?  Ten years ago?  Would we look more mature . . . which, in Paul’s understanding, means looking more and more like Christ . . . or would we look the same?  Five years from now, do we expect to measure up even more to the full stature of Christ?

 One way toward insuring that we do is to recognize, use, and develop the gifts God has given us. 

“Measuring up to the full stature of Christ” isn’t just about reading the Bible more, or praying more, or sounding more pious.  It’s about getting out there and getting your hands dirty, loving the people no one else wants to love, showing compassion to those who won’t return it, putting yourself at risk of being used or taken advantage of, and taking risks on others.  It’s about sacrificing yourself more and more for the benefit of others.  It’s about using your gifts and letting God work through you in the very special way that he wants to work through you, and only you.

 C.S. Lewis said that becoming more and more like Christ everyday “is not one among many jobs a Christian has to do; and it is not a sort of special exercise for the top class.  It is the whole of Christianity.”

 Becoming more and more like Jesus is what it’s all about.

 Pastor Rich

LBC October 2019 - First Time Guests

Greetings, Friends!

I’d like to share with you an abbreviated version of an article written by Tony Morgan, founder of The Unstuck  Group (a church consulting group).  The article is titled, “Increasing First-Time Guests: 3 Questions to Expand the Front Door of Your Church.”  (For the complete text this article, go to https://careynieuwhof.com/3-questions-to-expand-the-front-door-of-your-church/)

“Nearly every church leader I know is concerned with ‘closing the back door’ at his or her church.  But I’ve found the ‘front door’ is usually the bigger issue.

To see growth, you’ll need more new guests each year than your total average attendance on a Sunday….  It takes intentionality to reach people outside the church and outside the faith.  The natural tendency of every church is to become inward-focused over time.

Does your church have a front door problem?  If so, I’d encourage you to process these three questions together with your leadership team.

1.         Who should we be reaching?

You need a clear picture in your mind of who in your community God has called you to reach. 

With this in mind, I’d encourage you to engage a conversation with your leadership team to identify who your church should be focused on reaching.  To navigate this conversation, you can ask these key questions:

·         Who is in our community?

·         Of those people, who are we trying to reach?

·         What’s important to them?

·         How does our strategy approach address what’s most important to them?

At The Unstuck Group, we’ve learned that the more clarity churches have about who they are trying to reach, and the more intentionality in ministry strategy churches have to reach them, the more likely the church is to reach a broad cross-section of their community.

The reverse is not true.

When there’s no intentionality or, in some cases, total disregard for who the church should be reaching, the church struggles to reach its community and very few people are saved.

2.         How do we reach them?

You can’t program your way to health and the ability to reach new people.  In other words, starting an evangelism program and conducting evangelism training won’t fix this issue.

Instead, the church must focus its entire ministry strategy on reaching people outside the church and then helping people become disciples of Jesus.

If, for example, you want to reach a diverse group of dechurched, millennial, young adults in your community, then everything you do must reflect that focus.

·         Your worship services must be designed with that person in mind.

·         Your discipleship strategy must be designed with that person in mind.

·         Your nursery environment must be designed with that person in mind.

·         Your physical space and your online strategy have to be designed with that person in mind.

In other words, you have to become a church for diverse, dechurched, millennial young adults to reach diverse, dechurched, millennial young adults.

The primary way people will end up connected to your church is if those in your church invite their friends and family members.  Creating compelling environments, including worship services, will help fuel those invites.

3.         Are we winning or not?

Let me share some data from Gary McIntosh and Charles Arn in their book What Every Pastor Should Know: 101 Indispensable Rules of Thumb for Leading Your Church.  These are some key metrics you can track to determine whether or not you have a healthy front door:

·         If the church is growing, you’ll need more first-time guests each year than you have people in your total average attendance.  In other words, a growing church of 500 will need more than 500 first-time guests in a year.

·         The typical growing church sees 20% of first-time guests become part of the church.

·         Growing churches see nearly 40% of second-time guests become part of the church.

·         Close to 60% of people will become part of the church after their third visit.

As you can see, the odds of someone becoming part of the church increase dramatically if we can encourage them to come back for a second and third visit.  The first thing we should be inviting every first-time guest to do is to come back next Sunday.

One of the reasons why you may have a front-door problem is that you’ve never tracked the number of first-time guests to know if you’re winning or not.  Setting a target and then monitoring your progress will challenge your team to become more intentional about developing a comprehensive strategy for reaching people outside the church and outside the faith.”

This is Pastor Rich again: I encourage you to read the entire article online.  Always remember: Church growth is not about building a huge congregation; it’s about fulfilling the Great Commission: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20a).

Pastor Rich