It has been a difficult week for some in this church. Most notably is the tragic death of David Koliner. He was a great kid who loved his job, was obedient to his parents, and liked a good joke (even mine). His last words were calling out to Jesus. His brother, Mike (aka "Mad Money Mike) was home when it happened. Mike, like his brother, has a condition from birth that makes him more childlike, yet it was his faith that has been an encouragement to myself, his parents, and others in this dark time. As soon as Joel and I arrived on the scene his first words were, "God is good, all the time." He beat me to having a prayer with him and his family. He pulled out his Bible first to read from Psalm 23. There are many other things Mike has expressed to myself and others that display an amazing faith. It's easy to discount someone like Mike in the church, but this may be the very person God has put before us to learn. I Corinthians 1:27-29, God deliberately chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose those who are powerless to shame those who are powerful. God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important, so that no one can ever boast in the presence of God. (NLT) As for me, God is a work in my life thanks to the simple faith of a simple guy. Mike may not know the literal Hebrew and Greek meanings of the word faith, but he understands it better than some who do.
As far as yesterday went, things seemed to go smoothly. Our new sermon series, Carols, got kicked off with a trip to the little town of Bethlehem. This week we move into the stable for a lesson on "Away in a Manger" as we try to understand why the Son of God would be placed in something animals use to feed. Continue to invite others to attend.
Last night we had two unique opportunities. Some chose to see one of the most fascinating videos on the star that lead the magi to the new born King. Others took advantage of report on Trinidad and how this island church raised $66,000 for their mission works. Amazing stuff. Afterwards Joel Soumar delivered a powerful devotional on how we should see ourselves. If you missed it you may want to get with Joel just to get the video he used. It was an uplifting evening.
This week is filled with opportunities. David Koliner's funeral will be at our building Wednesday morning at 10:00. If you can help with food please contact Liz Raikes or the church office. The viewing will be at Cox-Gifford Tuesday evening from 2-4 and 6-8 pm. Also, take an opportunity to visit our sick or call those who may be struggling or missing from our services the last week or two. Check on our shut-ins. Sunday night will be another opportunity for the whole church to get together for a devotional and annual Christmas party. Wear your tacky sweater/t-shirt and wrap up a wacky gift for the "White Elephant" gift exchange. This should be fun. It will be at the Heritage Center. Please check your care group to determine what you need to bring.
One more thing. Our annual Christmas Eve Luncheon will be on us before we know it. If you know of people in need that could benefit from a great meal and some good fellowship, please tell them about this event. If you don't know realize how many days we are from Christmas ask your children or grandchildren (they can break it down to hours, minutes and seconds).
No comments:
Post a Comment