As I reflect on this past year and God’s work in Arkansas, the negative and challenging impact of the pandemic is still fresh. The pain of losing so many wonderful folks, the upheaval in our workplaces and schools and the challenges of not meeting in person in our churches are all part of a long list.
I also know that on our best days and on our worst days as individuals, churches and societies, God is always on His throne and He is always faithful. God never wastes time or opportunities to accomplish His work of drawing non-believers to him, strengthening His people and building His church—regardless of our pain or challenging situations.
As I look over the great things this past year in which God has blessed Arkansas Baptists, I am reminded again of how great He is and how much He loves us.
A few of the highlights that stand out are:
- The great spirit of cooperation and unity among Arkansas Baptists, and their love for each other.
- Our state’s very strong commitment to missions in Arkansas and around the world.
- Our churches’ response and ministry through Disaster Relief to Hurricane Ida and the tornado damage.
- Our very strong missions giving to Cooperative Program missions, and the three special offerings, Dixie Jackson, Annie Armstrong, and Lottie Moon.
- The high impact work of our agencies and institutions: Camp Siloam, Williams Baptist University, Arkansas Baptist Foundation, Arkansas Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries and Ouachita Baptist University.
- Our statewide meetings such as the ABSC Annual Meeting, ECON, Inspire, Prayer Gathering, “One Day” mission trip in Russellville, etc.
God’s continued blessings should inspire us to aggressively move forward working with Him to accomplish His purpose. God has been faithful to Arkansas Baptists during a challenging year and Arkansas Baptists have been faithful to serve Him. I finish out this year with two significant thoughts—God is always faithful and Arkansas Baptists are the best folks in the world!