11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.

12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Although this is a somewhat short passage, Paul says a mouthful. He reminds us to serve the Lord with joy in our hearts, for He is our source of hope. In times of need, He will not desert or abandon us. He is our deliverer. He also tells us to be faithful in prayer, keeping our hearts open to the Holy Spirit and His guidance. Prayer is our direct connection to God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit. My prayer is that we, as a church family, prayerfully work together to move closer to God's will, so that we may come to serve Him and His people and further His Kingdom here on earth.