Ridgewood Church

Yesterday we worshiped at Ridgewood Church, 131 Ridgewood Avenue, West View, PA 15229, 412.931.1313, www.ridgewoodlife.org, Pastor Chris Hezlep.

Scripture – NIV

1 Peter 2:21

To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.

2 Corinthians 8:7

But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you —see that you also excel in this grace of giving.

Bob’s thoughts:

What a great welcome as we entered; even a Marine stopped to introduce himself. One woman who greeted us made a point to tell us she would be back at the door if we had any questions. My favorite was the woman who said hello apologetically, anxious that perhaps we normally attended the later service. I was so glad she overcame her reservations and introduced herself.

Strangely, the only cross I could find was in the ceiling light fixtures. I brought ear plugs, but the volume was fine. I wish I could have heard more of the female singer; she had passion in her singing and a smile on her face.

The sermon was Part 6 of a series, Love Revolution, and was a “Call to Generosity.” The message developed well with Scripture references. The point was made that the tithe was to go to the storehouse, i.e., back to the church. I was glad the pastor let his passion show for such an important message.

Of all the people with money trouble whom I told to tithe, no one has ever come back complaining. And it was a joy to use parts of this message in a conversation at a restaurant today.

Later in the service there was a fair amount of noise from the narthex, but it was overall a delightful worship experience.

Jan’s thoughts:

We seem to be on a roll visiting Allison Park Church plants, and yesterday we learned after arriving that we were visiting APC’s West View site. It is located in a mostly residential area and within walking distance for nearby residents.

We were greeted warmly as we stepped in the door as well as engaged in conversation by others throughout our visit. This church holds two Sunday services, and conversation with the pastor confirmed that intentional preparation went into helping members learn to greet people who may be visitors or may be from the “other” service. This is the point on which most churches with multiple services need work, but it was done well here.

With the help of a directional sign we were able to find our way around easily enough. We were invited to help ourselves to a cup of coffee and lids were provided so we could take into the sanctuary.

The music was led by one woman and one man with an acoustic guitar, so the volume level was great for us.

The pastor explained that this message, “Called to Generosity,” was the sixth in the series Love Revolution. He clarified the necessity of God’s calling us to generosity because generosity does not come naturally.

He outlined the attitudes exhibited by greed, selfishness, and generosity; then our potential responses: 1 – do what I should do (tithing); 2 – do what I could do (sacrifice); and 3 – do what I would do (use it all for God’s glory).

He challenged the congregation to choose between being like a bucket and hoarding a finite amount, or being like a funnel, through which blessings flow to others.

I found this message greatly encouraging and am deeply grateful God led us here to hear it.

Our prayer for this church:

Heavenly Father, we pray this congregation continues to experience the blessings Christ pours out upon them when they bring their tithe to the storehouse, and may the church be blessed to open that storehouse to Your people. Amen.