William Wilberforce...is a name many people are not familiar with. He lived from 1759 to 1853. He was a politician, a philanthropist and a leader in the movement to abolish the slave trade. His name has recently become more well known do to the movie, "Amazing Grace." (side note: if you haven't seen that movie, I encourage you to do so). After he started his political career, he became a follower of Christ in 1785.
Wilberforce's involvement int he abolition movement was motivated by his desire to put his Christian principles into action & to serve God in public life. His first involvement with abolition movements was in 1787 with the first act brought to Parliament in 1791. Wilberforce ended up dedicating his life to see the slave trade abolished. He poured years into research, dedicated hours to prove the horrific conditions these slaves endured. In spite of all the efforts of Wilberforce and his partners, time and time again, year after year the bill was voted down. After battling ill-health and years of pain, frustration and anger,
the slave trade act was finally passed in 1807, twenty years from his early involvement.
It's easy to make convenience, comfort and the least amount of pain our goal in life. It's easy to take the road of less resistance. However, as we study great men & woman of the Bible & history we see that anything of significance, takes sacrifice. The notion that changing history and making a difference is easy, is a lie.
What are we living for today? Are we living for a cause bigger than ourselves? As we plant this church in Wyandotte, we desire to change the spiritual climate of downriver Detroit. To see thousands come to faith in Jesus Christ. To see families strengthened and healed. To see marriages restored and couples madly in love with each other. To see parents investing in their children and spending quality time together. To see people discovering their gifts and talents and having fun using them to serve their community & church.
Will all of this take a sacrifice? You bet! Will it be worth it all in the end? You bet! Won't you join us!!
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