Dear Friends,
In the ancient Middle East, being a disciple was both a privilege and a responsibility. People could not simply decide on their own to follow a rabbi; they had to be chosen or invited to learn directly from that teacher. This meant closeness to the teacher, entering into a special relationship, and becoming part of an inner circle. Learning was not only through words but through a way of life. The rabbi taught orally, but also through daily example. He was a role model in everything, showing his disciples the way of life. In turn, the disciples were expected to represent their teacher’s teaching to the community by their words and actions, and some of them would become future rabbis, passing on the tradition.
Jesus did the same with His disciples. He chose them and taught them through His words and actions. He did not select them from the elites, but from ordinary people. He gave them the privilege of following Him and entrusted them with the responsibility of carrying His message of love, forgiveness, and justice to the world. He did not promise them an easy life, but He did promise to be with them always.
What about us today? As Christians—Christ’s followers—we share the same privilege and responsibility. We are invited into God’s family by grace, and we are called to live out Christ’s teaching in the world. Christian prayer, service, love, and witness are both a gift and a calling.
So I encourage you this month to reflect on your discipleship. Following our Lord is not a burden, but a joy. Yet, it is not always easy. Still, He promised to empower us through the Holy Spirit, who walks with us through every challenge. I continue to pray for all of you, disciples of Christ, that you may always be empowered and guided by the wisdom of our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Finally, I would like to share with you two pieces of news:
First, we said goodbye to Rebecca Williams, who served with us faithfully as administrative assistant. Becca brought incredible skills and deep commitment to God’s kingdom here in Erwin. We pray for her as she begins a new job. She will be greatly missed in the office, but we are blessed that she and her son will continue to be part of our church family.
Second, we are happy to welcome our new administrative assistant, Sharon Hyder. Sharon brings strong office skills and broad experience, having served as a medical office coordinator, human resources assistant, accountant, and administrative assistant. Please stop by her office anytime and give her a warm welcome to EP Church.
See you soon,
Dr. Ramy Marcos