FIFTEENTH FIRST LOVE
To say that we’re the First Baptist Church “of Tallahassee” means more than just our location. It’s who we are and why we’re here. We’re a part of Tallahassee, and God has placed us here to love Tallahassee and reach our community with the good news of Jesus Christ. And I’m convinced that First Love is one of the best opportunities we have each year to live up to our name and our calling.
Since 2003, First Baptist Church has dedicated one Saturday every fall to come together as a church and go out into our community. Hundreds of volunteers of all ages and from all stages of life scatter throughout Tallahassee and tackle numerous projects — large and small, indoor and outdoor.
First Love always reminds me of Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:14 – 16. “You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”
We go out to serve in Jesus’ name, by the Spirit’s power, and to God’s glory. We meet tangible needs, provide words of comfort and encouragement, and sometimes just let folks know they’re not forgotten. And as we do, people take notice and God is honored.
This will be our 15th annual First Love, and over the years, I’ve heard so many stories of lives impacted through this ministry. One thing I’ve also noticed is that the more volunteers we have signed up in advance, the more projects we’re able to plan, and the greater impact we’re able to make — all for God’s glory.
First Love has been rescheduled to Saturday, October 28, and we need everyone available to sign up now at fbctlh.org/firstlove. It only takes a couple of minutes (seriously, like 120 seconds…I even timed myself), and then you’re all set. No matter what your skills or interests may be, we’ll have something meaningful for you to do.
And just to state the obvious: We literally can’t do First Love without the hundreds of volunteers who serve each year. So after you sign up, find some more folks to serve with you. Ask a friend, neighbor, coworker, classmate, and especially any FBCTLH members who haven’t signed up yet. It’s not just the folks we serve who are impacted by First Love; it’s just as often the ones who serve.
Remember First Baptist Church of Tallahassee, “we love because he first loved us” (1 John 4:19). So let’s show His love as we love Tallahassee.
— Josh Hall