New Year's Resolutions Must Consider Community Too

It's that time of year where many people are completing vision boards, making new year resolutions or outlining big goals they want to reach in 2020.

Unfortunately, this practice is usually so individualistic that people overlook the opportunity to dream up visions and draw up plans for their community as well.

New Year's Resolutions far too often are just about me-myself-and I.

But what about our community? Shouldn't we also be thinking, planning and working collectively to bring about a better day for our families and neighborhoods?

Can't our churches do more to help? Sure they can!

But churches are only as powerful as the commitment of the people inside of them - which leads to this invitation.

I'm asking you today to commit to serving the community through the work of Pleasant Hope Baptist Church in the new year. The Black Church is the undisputed institutional leader in serving the interests of the Black community in a variety of ways. Since the late 1700's, we've organized people, our money, and our property in service to God and community, however, the fight has intensified.

Given the current political upheaval in government, heartbreaking violence in our communities, the threats that climate change will bring to our people and the continuous strain that people face just trying to make ends meet, we can no longer be comfortable doing "church as usual."

If you're looking for a way to make a difference, consider linking with Pleasant Hope as we put the full resources of our church behind uplifting God and serving our community. If you're already connected to Pleasant Hope, but you don't contribute and have never committed yourself to anything in the ministry, make 2020 the year that you come off the sidelines.

I'm not asking you to join a church as much as I'm inviting you to join the movement! Put "Faith-filled Freedom Fighter" on your New Year's Resolution list and commit today to be a part of the solution for your family and your community in 2020.

I'm ready to put the full resources of our church behind this mission, but I need you to commit and focus your energy here.

Yours In The Struggle,

Rev. Dr. Heber Brown, III

Pastor