The delegates of Synod 2008, denominational staff, and many others gathered on a balmy Sunday afternoon, June 15, the second day of synod, for the annual synodical service of prayer and praise.
The worship service, held in the Calvin College chapel, was hosted by the convening church of this year’s synod, River Walk Community Christian Reformed Church, located in Battle Creek, Mich.
The service was led by River Walk’s pastor, Rev. Richard Verkaik, and the church’s worship team.
Verkaik based his message on John 3:16-17. In his sermon titled “Our Pivot Point” he used the basketball metaphor of a player’s pivot foot to illustrate the importance of centering our lives only on God’s love as revealed throughout Scripture.
Verkaik challenged worshipers with this question: “What are we arguing about in church today? Has it become your pivot foot? Has it replaced John 3:16-17?” He went on to address the delegates: “You synodical reps, this agenda is not your pivot foot, but John 3:16-17 is. . . . Ask yourself, ‘What are we doing here to advance this message?’”
The service concluded with communion.
About the Author
Bob De Moor is a retired Christian Reformed pastor living in Edmonton, Alta.