, MAY THEME – CHURCH ALIVE: Living As His Body In A Broken World.
SUNDAY’S SERMON SUMMARY
The congregation greeted one another as the living, breathing Body of Christ, not merely attendees but vital members uniquely placed by God. They were reminded that Jesus alone is the Head—He dwells in and directs the Church, empowering each believer to manifest Him through their gifts. As hands that serve, feet that go, and voices that speak hope, they refuse to sit in isolation; instead, they unite in love, humility, and service, building one another up and displaying Christ’s resurrection power to a broken world. Every act of worship, prayer, and service matters because the world either sees Jesus in them—or not at all. Today they recommitted to the call of Romans 12, understanding that every member’s role is indispensable. They embraced the challenge to step off the bench and into active ministry, knowing their obedience multiplies the Church’s impact.
On this special Mother’s Day, they paused to honor the faithful women whose nurturing love first drew them into the family of God. Whether present in the pews or watching from heaven, these mothers model Christ’s unconditional love, forgiveness, and faith. As the choir leads them in hymns like “The Family of God” and “The Church’s One Foundation,” their hearts rise in gratitude, awe, and surrender. They recommitted to shifting from spectators to active participants—stepping forward in obedience, claiming their God-given roles, and becoming instruments of grace so that together, as one body under Christ, they truly exalt their Savior. They feel the weight and privilege of carrying on the legacy these mothers began by investing in the next generation. They resolved to offer the same sacrificial love and steadfast faith that built the Church’s foundation.
GO TO www.belmontbaptistchurch.com/sermons and listen to Sunday’s message.
Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
“CALLED TO BELONG”
“For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.” — Romans 12:4–5
God never intended believers to function as isolated individuals or “spiritual lone wolves.” Instead, He weaves us into a living organism—His Body—where each member contributes unique gifts, perspectives, and strengths. When one part attempts to go it alone, the whole Body can stumble; but when every member engages in harmony, the Church flourishes with strength, encouragement, and unity. Recognizing our interdependence is not a call to uniformity but to mutual support: your presence and your participation breathe life into the whole.
In Acts 2:42–47, the first Christians modeled this calling to belong: they devoted themselves to apostolic teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. Their hearts were knit together so tightly that “the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul” (Acts 4:32). Because no one stayed on the sidelines, their unity became a powerful testimony, drawing daily additions to the Church and demonstrating the gospel lived out in community.
Testimony: There was a season when I convinced myself I had nothing meaningful to contribute in our small group, so I stayed home. Later, at the prompting of the Holy Spirit, I joined their discussion and shared how God had provided in a small but significant way—paying an unexpected bill right before the month’s end. That simple testimony sparked tears of relief in someone struggling financially and reminded me that God often uses the most ordinary stories to strengthen His Body.
- Listen for His Voice: Start your day by asking, “Holy Spirit, who in Your Body needs me today?”
- Engage Intentionally: Choose one tangible way to connect—attend a midweek prayer gathering, send an encouraging text to someone you saw at church, or volunteer for an upcoming outreach.
- Offer Your Gift: Whether it’s your gift of hospitality, prayer, teaching, or service, consciously deploy it to bless at least one person or group.
Before the sun sets, reach out to one church member you haven’t spoken to recently. Ask two questions:
- “How can I pray for you this week?”
- “Is there a way I can serve or encourage you today?”
Then follow through—set a reminder to pray or lend a hand, demonstrating that you truly belong as part of Christ’s Body.
Prayer: “Jesus, break me free from the temptation to isolate or hide my gifts. Open my eyes to see my brothers and sisters in need, and give me the courage to step into community. Teach me how to belong fully in Your Body, using what You’ve given me to bless others. May my life reflect that we are stronger—and more beautiful—together. Amen.”
MONDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Ann Stanley – Waiting On Heart Valve
Gail Sparks
James Garner
Roy Loyd
Steven Parker
Angela Bryan’s Sister
Beth – A Friend Of Amy Garners
Danny Jarrard
Darlene Wiggins
David Newby
Debbie Foskey
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Friend of Linda Hodge
George & Linda Alexander
George Calhoon
James Burnette
James Parker
Jessica Headrick
Jodi Bateman
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
June Davis
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain’s Mother
Kim’s Sisters – Ann & Brenda
Lee Cronan
Lillianna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Lonzo Christian
Lori Blount’s Mother
Mary William’s Granddaughter
Mary Williams
Mary Williamson – Dana Jackson’s Mom
Marynell Ford
Mike, Gwen, Michael Rice Family – Friends of Blount’s – Car Accident
Mrs. Franklin
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Scarlett – Marynell’s Granddaughter
Scott Lanier
Steve Michaels
Theresa Bain’s Granddaughter
Tom Witcher