“For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.” 1Corinthians 5:14 With those simple words the Apostle captures the essence of our motivation for Christian living. Although we are called to encourage one another, for we may all find ourselves struggling at one point or another; it is also true that continued neglect of the things of God, our spiritual lives and lack of participation in the life of the Church may be a symptom of something far deeper going on in our lives. One cannot workout or express in a consistent manner that which one has never fully grasped, namely the love of Christ. Or in simpler terms ‘One cannot work out, what has not been first taken to heart.” As Pastor, I am constantly grateful for the evidences of God’s grace and heartfelt expressions of His love as Paul expressed it so wonderfully: “We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. 3 We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. 4 For we know, brothers and sisters[b] loved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction.” 1Thessalonians 1: 2-5 I am amazed by our small fellowship at times by the incredible, sacrificial and practical assistance that some individuals in our midst have offered to those in need. God bless you for your kingdom efforts and I pray that those who have been recipients of such graciousness may respond in faith and with grace to the kindness of God’s people. As Pastor, I am also greatly concerned for those who seem to have grown cold and I ask simply that you reflect on the love of God for I pray: “That Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:17-19 Yesterday, Ben returned to his summer job at the CNE, a date which for many marks the unofficial countdown to fall. I trust that the summer has been a time of joy for you. Before we leave the summer of 2013, I remind you of our Vacation Bible School next week. I am sure that Tracey and her fellow workers have a great week planned. It is not too late to invite someone along nor to offer to assist! As we approach the fall season and the Children return to school, it is also when our Sunday School gets geared up for another wonderful season. Have you ever considered the opportunities for service as a Sunday School Teacher or helper? If you believe God can use you in that ministry please speak to Tracey as she (and we) are always on the lookout for those that would embrace this ministry which is so important to the future of young lives and the church! September promises to be exciting as we kick off the season with a Church Family Welcome BBQ on Sunday, September 8th immediately following the morning service. We are looking forward to our Missions emphasis at the end of the month with Ken and Mary Ann Jolley our Missionaries from Venezuela ministering to us the morning of September 29th; followed by John Adams of HCLB one week later on October 6th. A big thank you to those who are working behind the scenes to improve and maintain our aging church building enhancing our fellowship all the more. Yours Always Because His; Phil
Posted on: Sat, 17 Aug 2013 20:27:11 +0000
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