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Parson to Person
March 11, 2010
Once again we find ourselves rushing on towards Easter and this week of services that precede it. I look forward to those times every year. Since I was a teen they’ve been times of renewal and reflection- and like Paul with Passover, I’ve always longed to be part of them.
For us the days immediately leading up to Easter are a mini Bible conference. For others, these days, this Lenten season, have many other connections.
One Island pastor wrote to his congregation this month seeking to explain the meaning of Lent and then Easter. Here’s what he said:
“I believe that here, right after Jesus’ baptism, he is led into the wilderness on this spiritual quest to search His very soul to discover who he is and what his purpose is. What is the Son of God here for? What are we here for? These are good questions. I believe that in these forty days, Jesus recognized and claimed the main thing for his life here on earth. Many Christians believe that was to march to Jerusalem and Golgotha and to die on the cross for our sins. Jesus came to “save us”. I do not believe so…….”
What a statement for anyone who professes to call themselves a Christian, let alone, a pastor.
So what’s Jesus’ life all about? According to him it’s an example! “He came to teach us about God and God’s Love, and then, in the end, died on the cross to demonstrate that sacrificial love.”
Friends, there is no greater testament to the love of God for His sinful elect than the cross of Christ. There is no greater demonstration than His atoning work.
But if He didn’t come to redeem me – if He didn’t die in my place to save me – no example, not even His will do me the least bit of good. Apart from the vicarious atonement of the cross, His perfect example stands to condemn my sin.
Thankfully, Christ’s example is found in His saving work. Jesus did come, specifically, to “save His people from their sins.” (Mt. 1:21) And, He came to do it by giving “His life a ransom for many.” (Mk. 10:45)
The reason that “many Christians believe” Jesus came to save by His sacrifice on the cross is that the Lord, Himself said so, repeatedly. That, in fact, is the message of scripture running from Genesis 3:15 throughout the whole Bible. That was the purpose foretold by the prophets. It was the purpose announced by the angels at His birth. It was the Father’s business that He was about from His youth. And, it was His announced purpose during His earthly ministry.
I am as grateful today, as the first day I was saved, for the redeeming work of Christ. I’m especially thankful, that though I grew up under the kind of ministry that eclipsed the character of God and the cross of Christ, God graciously made me one of His own.
And, as we approach another Easter, I’m reminded yet again that there are thousands on the Island that are, for all intents and purposes, without the Word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. Sadly, many of them are obviously sitting under pulpits saying “Jesus came to save us! I do not believe so.”
It’s a reminder of the need to boldly declare Jesus has died and risen again for our sins according to the Scriptures.
Topics: Parson to Person | Comments Off
AWANA – March 2010
March 11, 2010
During the winter months Awana clubbers have been busy learning God’s Word. There are even reports of some completing their handbook already (especially in the Sparks and T&T Clubs). We have been enjoying our time playing together and learning God’s Word on Wednesday evenings.
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On January 9, we held the annual Winter Picnic in the FLC parking lot. There were good-sized snow piles to play on, gallons of hot chocolate to sip and a warm fire to roast marshmallows and cook hot dogs! The weather was just right for a “winter” picnic with temperatures in the high 20’s |
| February 6 our Truth and Training clubs participated in the Western New York Bible Quiz Meet in Akron, NY. Coach Sue Rice and her teams did a great job. Book 1 Team members included Bethany Wolcott and Ayla Walker who earned Second place ribbons. Book 2 teams included Sara Wolcott and Andrew Thompson who earned second place ribbons and Mary Grace Langdon and Cecilia Schmidt who earned first place honors! |
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March is always a busy month in Awana. There is an emphasis on missions throughout the month. The annual Penny Contest is underway. Don’t forget to cast your votes for the most deserving leader (of a pie in the face) by putting your extra pennies in the jugs in the church basement and the FLC lobby. The pennies collected will go to the Awana missionaries, Marlin and Donna Fuller.
Coming up:
| March 24 | Ceremony of the Pie – all clubs meet at the FLC |
| April 7 | Awana Fun Fair at FLC – all clubs meet at FLC |
| April 28 | Closing Program at the Church – all clubs meet at church |
| June 5 | Sparks Camp-a-rama |
| July 23 | Awana Golf Open |
Topics: AWANA | Comments Off
Cornerstone Manor
March 11, 2010
We are commanded to love our neighbor as ourselves. What better way is there to show our love to our neighbors than to bring the good news of the Gospel of Christ to those who are hurting going through times of trial?
On the 2nd Friday of every month we spread the good news to the women and children of the Cornerstone Manor Women’s shelter. We host two separate ministries. First we feed a snack to all the residents of the Manor, then the children remain upstairs to attend the Cornerstone Kids program where we tell them Bible stories, sing songs with them, and do arts and crafts or play games with them. Meanwhile, the ladies come down for our Chapel service where we lift Him up in songs and in praise and present the living water of His word to the women. Many women stay after for prayer and with questions for us. Won’t you consider joining us as we seek to touch lives with the gospel of Christ?
Topics: Ministry | Comments Off
NOTES OF INTEREST:
March 11, 2010
With the Lord:
Bob Coleman, longtime member of Bible Pres. and currently living in Bradenton, Florida, went to be with the Lord on September 22nd . Our prayers are with his wife Gerry and the extended family. Bob was the father of Keith, Kathy and Ken. His late wife Grace died in 1978, and he and the former Gerry Frey were married in 1983. They celebrated 25 years of marriage last year. Bob was a faithful Sunday School teacher, Elder, usher, served as MC at many church events, and was known for his quick wit and humor.
Our sympathy goes to the Rusk Family on the recent loss of Laurie’s mom.
Health Needs:
Charles Blowers underwent back surgery last October and is recovering at home. Please keep him in prayer for continued strengthening.
Karen Manganello is doing better following hospitalization for an undiagnosed illness including high fever and blood clots.
Ruth Thompson had successful surgery for a malignancy and is undergoing radiation treatment.
Linda Markle had knee replacement surgery in February and God is blessing her with a wonderful recovery.
Welcome! In November, we welcomed eight new members to our church:
| Nancy Dahlquist | Steve Koo |
| Winnie Finbar | Lisa Schmidt |
| David Koo | Mike Schmidt |
| James Koo | Emily Wolcott |
Steve & Barb Langdon are the proud parents of a baby girl, Maeve Evangeline. Maeve was born on November 20, 2009, weighing 8 lbs., 6 oz. and measuring 20″. Congratulations!
Congratulations! Paul and Rachel Ryberg welcomed a baby daughter, Elizabeth Grace, weighing 8 lbs., 1 oz. on March 10, 2010. Mom and baby are doing well.
A Congregational Meeting, preceded by a pot luck supper, was held on January 22. The purpose was to vote on uses for additional funds that have been received. It was voted to increase missionary giving and also provide funds for some much-needed maintenance work on the church and FLC premises. We PRAISE THE LORD for His bountiful provision for His church!
The men continued to enjoy the “Faithful Men’s Breakfasts” on January 23rd with various speakers discussing topics relevant to men. Another breakfast meeting will be held April 3rd at 8:00 AM as part of our Holy Week services, with Dr. John Battle speaking.
LOOKING AHEAD:
March 12 Cornerstone Manor Service and Children’s Ministry – 7:30 PM
March 20 AWANA Games
March 24 AWANA Ceremony of the Pie – 7:30 PM at the FLC
March 31- April 4
HOLY WEEK AND EASTER SERVICES:
Dr. John Battle of Western Reformed Seminary will be our special speaker.
Wednesday, March 31 “Jesus Came for Us” Philippians 2:6-7
Thursday, April 1 “Jesus Obeyed for Us” Philippians 2:8a
Friday, April 2 “Jesus Died for Us” Philippians 2:8b
(Communion will be observed)
Saturday, April 3 Faithful Men’s Breakfast at 8:00 AM at the FLC
“Learning from the Lord’s Example” Philippians 2:1-4, 12-16
EASTER SUNDAY:
7:30 AM – Sunrise Service at Beaver Island State Park Overlook (weather permitting); Dr. Kevin Backus speaking.
8:30 AM – Breakfast at Church
9:30 AM – Sunday School for all ages: “Jesus Rose for Us” Philippians 2:9a
10:45 AM-Morning Worship Service: “Jesus Lives for Us” Philippians 2:9b
6:00 PM – Evening Worship Service: “Jesus Will Come for Us” Philippians 2:10-11
Dr. John Battle will be speaking at the morning and evening services.
April 28 AWANA Closing Program
Topics: Looking Ahead, Notes of Interest | Comments Off
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