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We Are Not Alone |
2008-09-29 |
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September has been, in many ways, an historical month. Hurricanes from Texas to Maine and throughout the Caribbean. Huge lending institutions failing in record numbers because of lax and poor lending practices dating back to the late 90’s, corporate greed and lack of governmental oversight. Democracy is taking hold in Iraq, but we again turn our focus on the Al Qaeda terrorist network in Afghanistan. All this leads to uncertainty and worry.
With WOW beginning the first Wednesday in October, our youth activities are in full swing. Adult offerings have expanded so that 4-5 days a week offering different Bible Studies and other Christian growth opportunities. One of the most important things we do as a church is to provide faith opportunities for growth to all ages.
At baptism, parents make promises. At the confirmation service, our youth make promises. These promises are about growing in faith, love and obedience to the will of God and to participate more fully in the life of the church. That should be the goal of all believers. The confirmation promises are for adults as well: “To live among God’s faithful people; to Hear his Word and share in his supper; to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ through word and deed.” Teachers also make promises as we install them. “Having offered yourselves in the teaching ministry of this congregation, will you follow the Lord’s example of humble service? Will you study the Word diligently and grow in God’s love as you serve God’s people?”
The witness of Scripture reminds us of God’s promises in Jesus Christ. Your sins are forgiven. I am with you always. Even the number of hairs on your head are numbered. Philippians 4:4-9 encourages believers to live boldly in all circumstances. Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
I have found that living confidently in difficult times takes faith, encouragement and a whole lot of practice. I need to hear those promises spoken to me again and again so that I am reminded of them in the battles of this life. That’s the beauty of Christian education. That’s the gift of worship! We strive to give our children a Biblical foundation so that when the storms of life come, they might not be washed away. In the storms of adult life, we need to continue to maintain that foundation with daily Scripture, prayer and Christian growth. That’s why we try to live out the promises that we make to God. It cheers us on in the difficult race of life on earth. If you have struggled to keep these promises and haven’t been doing a very good job at it, why not get a new start today? God is a God of new beginnings, of forgiveness, and continues to keep his promises to us. If you haven’t been to church in a long time, we love to see you back! God hasn’t given up on you and neither have we. Join us so that you may hear again the promises God continues to make to you: forgiveness of sins, life and salvation! See you in church!
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Summer: starting Memorial Day Weekend
9:00 am Worship Service KMSD Broadcast
10:00 am Coffee and Fellowship
WOW (Worship on Wednesday) 6:30 pm
Winter: starting after Labor Day
8:30 am Worship Service KMSD Broadcast
9:35 am Educational Hour
9:35 am Coffee and Fellowship
10:45 am Worship Service
WOW (Worship on Wednesday) 6:30 pm |
Click Here
401 South Flynn Drive
Milbank SD 57252
605.432.5566 |
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