Christ Presbyterian Church

CPC THIS WEEK

SEPTEMBER 1, 2010

THE E-NEWSLETTER OF CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

THE PLANS AND PURPOSES OF THE LORD

By Tom Stein

    If you go to the end of this newsletter, or if you have September’s “Devote Yourselves to Prayer” guide, you will be encouraged to memorize Psalm 33.

    It is a fairly long Psalm - no need to feel the need to get it all at once!  But it is worth marinating in these words.  They declare God’s sovereign rule over all.

    The heart of the Psalm is near the center - verses 10 and 11: “The Lord foils the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples.  But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever; the purposes of his heart through all generations.”

    We live in a world of deep fears and vaporous dreams.  We will be reminded of the fears as we approach 9/11.  Even this month, dreams may die for you or me.

    Where is our help?  Where is our hope?  Where is our joy?  Where is our trust?  It is in the unshaking, unerring, unfailing plans and purposes of the Lord.  He is still sovereign, and because of Jesus Christ, we know he is FOR us.

    As the Psalmist ponders God’s amazing greatness, he concludes:

    “We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield.

    “In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name.

    “May your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in you.”

    May we be reminded and mindful of this every day, as we live in our world and live out our lives.  And may these truths provide the hope and joy that strengthens our souls and stirs our service.

**KICKING OFF FALL...**

    * Sign up for a Life Group this Sunday, or by contacting the church office.

    * Men’s Bible Study: Wednesdays at 6:30 (starting September 15 at Jim Price’s home).

    * Women’s Bible Studies:

      Tuesday Evenings at 7:00 (starting soon at Helen Morgan’s home).

      Wednesday Afternoons at 12:30 (starting September 8 at the church office).

    * “Our Life Together” membership seminar - starting soon.  Contact Pastor Stein for more information.

    * Upcoming Events:

      Sunday Morning, September 19: 25th Anniversary Celebration

      October 2-3 - Missions Conference

      October 16 - Fall Festival

**SPECIAL NEEDS MINISTRY**

    Karin Price is seeking assistant teachers for children with special needs.  If you are willing and able to help, please contact Karin at karin@dillonadopt.com.

PRAYING FOR THE PERSECUTED CHURCH: INDIA

    Voice of the Martyrs reports:

    “On August 15, police arrested 12 believers in Mandya district, Karnataka state, India.  Pastor Satish and Ravi, an evangelist with India Campus Crusade for Christ, were conducting a service in a believer's home when approximately 30 people entered the building and started to accuse them of forcibly converting locals.

    “Later that day, 10 of the believers were released; Pastor Satish and Ravi remained in detention at last report.”

THIS WEEK’S FRIENDLY REMINDER

Email addresses occasionally disappear from our bulk email lists.

If you stop receiving the e-newsletter (on Wednesdays), the weekly prayer lists (on Sundays), and/or prayer requests, please contact the church office.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

September 4 - Helen Morgan

September 5 - Asher Nottingham, Kim Soots, Connie Whitaker

THIS SUNDAY’S SERMON TEXT: 1 THESSALONIANS 4:11

SEPTEMBER VERSES TO MEMORIZE: PSALM 33

CPC THIS WEEK

AUGUST 18, 2010

THE E-NEWSLETTER OF CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

GUIDING OUR CHILDREN (PART 3)

By Tom Stein

    During August, our children return to school - at all ages, and in all forms.  We realize the years are passing!

    This month in this space, I am using four illustrations from Tedd and Margy Tripp’s book, “Instructing a Child’s Heart,” to guide us in guiding our children.

-------

    The Tripps imagine a 60-ton train car rolling along a set of railroad tracks.  You might think, “Look at that powerful locomotive with so much potential.  What a shame that it is restricted to the confines of the tracks.  Let’s set the locomotive free and allow it to run across the meadow, through the woods, or wherever it would like to go.”

    But, the Tripps wonder, “How free would the locomotive be?  It would quickly become mired in the soft ground of the meadow.”

    They continue, “The locomotive is free on the tracks.  God has laid the tracks on us.  You and your children will find the greatest freedom and enjoyment in running freely along the tracks.”  In this image, the “tracks” are the truths of God’s Word.

    As I observe parents (including myself), I see two opposite tendencies:

    1. Too little freedom.  Some parents want to control everything about the lives of their children.  The children are on the tracks, but they are dragging along.

    2. Too much freedom.  Other parents have no control over anything in the lives of their children.  The children are running free - and into ditches.

    As parents, we are to guide our children along the tracks of following the Lord and his truth.  Yet even there, there is freedom.  The Bible directs all of life, but it does not dictate every detail of life.

    Our goal is to prepare them to run along those tracks themselves.  As they grow older, we give them more and more freedom, yet while they are under our care, we never give them complete freedom.

    We need wisdom here!  As parents, we should be talking to God and each other about these issues.  We need guidance and grace to stay “on track.”

WOMEN!!!

    Women in the Church (WIC) will have a kick-off meeting THIS THURSDAY, AUGUST 19 at 7 PM at the church.  They will plan events for the coming year.

    All women are invited!  Bring craft/sewing projects if you like, and it will be a great evening of work and fellowship.  Questions?  Contact Debbie Gentry.

CONGREGATIONAL MEETING - SUNDAY, AUGUST 29

    The Session has scheduled a Congregational Meeting for Sunday, August 29 after worship.

    The purpose of this meeting is for the congregation to vote on extending a call to Bob Clark as Associate Pastor.  Bob is currently serving as Assistant Pastor, but the Session believes Bob’s responsibilities and contributions make it appropriate for a congregational call as our Associate Pastor.

    According to our Book of Church Order, the call to an Associate Pastor position is from the congregation, so the congregation will need to vote on this.

    Please prayerfully consider this, contact a Session member if you have questions, and plan to attend.

FROM THE DISCIPLESHIP TEAM...

   Sinclair Ferguson suggests, “You are what you read.”  If this is true, we need to read books that explain Scripture, search our consciences, and challenge us to spiritual growth and obedience.

    With this in mind, the Discipleship Team recommends a booklet called “A Christian Reader.”  You can get it in the foyer rack, or on the CPC web page: www.christpca-richmondin.net./books/

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

CPC 25TH ANNIVERSARY WORSHIP SERVICE AND CELEBRATION:

SUNDAY MORNING, SEPTEMBER 19

**LIFE GROUPS RESUME IN SEPTEMBER - SIGNUPS SOON**

    Life Groups are an excellent way to increase your love for God and deepen your relationships with other people in the body of Christ.

    At CPC, our third commitment is to “spiritual maturity expressed in every area of life.”  Life Groups build this.  Please consider joining a group this fall.

PRAYING FOR THE PERSECUTED CHURCH: NORTH KOREA

    Voice of the Martyrs reports:

    “Three leaders of an underground house church in North Korea have been executed and 20 of their Christian associates jailed.”

THIS WEEK’S FRIENDLY REMINDER

If you bring your cell phone to church,

please turn it off before you enter worship.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

August 20 - Cindy Cook

August 23 - Brynna Cheek, Joseph Baker

August 24 - Pat James, Mallory Munn

THIS SUNDAY’S SERMON TEXT: 1 PETER 2:4-10

AUGUST VERSES TO MEMORIZE: PHILIPPIANS 4:4-8

CPC THIS WEEK

AUGUST 4, 2010

THE E-NEWSLETTER OF CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

GUIDING OUR CHILDREN (PART 1)

By Tom Stein

    During August, our children return to school - at all ages, and in all forms.  We realize the years are passing!

    This month in this space, I plan use four illustrations from Tedd and Margy Tripp’s book, “Instructing a Child’s Heart,” to guide us in guiding our children.

-------

    Tedd tells the story of going to his son one night to speak to him before his son went to bed.  He said what he had to say, then told his son he was glad they had a chance to talk.

    A few minutes later, his son knocked on the bedroom door.  “Dad,” said his son, “when you left my room you said you were happy we had talked together.

    “I just wanted to mention that I didn’t say anything.”

    This story reminds us that part of guiding our children is understanding them.  We resent it when our friends solve our problems before they hear them.  But we may make the same mistake with our kids.  We talk, but we do not listen.

    Proverbs 15:23: “A man finds joy in giving an apt reply - and how good is a timely word.”  Indeed, we are to speak wisdom to the hearts of our children.  But how can our wisdom be “apt” and “timely” when we have not heard from them?

    Why do we do this?  The Tripps say maybe we do not want to face the issues that would come with real understanding.  Or maybe if we would listen to them more, our expectations for them would have to change.

    The Tripps encourage us to:

    * Draw out our children with good questions.

    * Discover when it is good for them to talk, and when it is not.

    * Always express our love for our children, no matter the nature of the issue.

    Are our words apt and timely?  Do we listen before we speak?  How would God use new habits to transform hearts and relationships in your home?

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

CPC 25TH ANNIVERSARY WORSHIP SERVICE AND CELEBRATION:

SUNDAY MORNING, SEPTEMBER 19

**SOUND AND PROJECTION MEETING - THIS SUNDAY, AUGUST 8**

    Right after worship, there will be a meeting for current and future sound and projection people.  This is a great way to serve the church - without being in the front of the church with everyone looking at you!

    If you are interested, contact T.R. Munn.

**THIS SUNDAY, AUGUST 8 -

MONTHLY MERCY MINISTRY OFFERING**

***SUNDAY SCHOOL RESUMES SUNDAY, AUGUST 15***

    For the three weeks remaining in August, we will hear reports on summer events: mission trips, youth camp, and the PCA General Assembly.

**LIFE GROUPS RESUME IN SEPTEMBER - SIGNUPS SOON**

    Life Groups are an excellent way to increase your love for God and deepen your relationships with other people in the body of Christ.

    Groups generally meet twice a month for study, prayer and fellowship, although different groups will have different emphases and schedules.

    At CPC, our third commitment is to “spiritual maturity expressed in every area of life.”  Life Groups build this.  Please consider joining a group this fall.

PRAYING FOR THE PERSECUTED CHURCH: VIETNAM

    Voice of the Martyrs reports:

    “A house church building in Xi Thoai village, Phu Yen Province, Vietnam was attacked and damaged by a gang of youths on July 18.

    “The building...was in the process of being constructed in order to serve the ethnic Hroi community as the nearby church had reached full capacity.”

THIS WEEK’S FRIENDLY REMINDER

Whenever you are in the building or the office,

please make sure all the outside doors are locked before you leave!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

August 6 - Jeff Nottingham

August 9 - Mike Allen, Mark Scheffler

August 10 - Jessica Luker

THIS SUNDAY’S SERMON TEXT: 1 PETER 1:1-12

AUGUST VERSES TO MEMORIZE: PHILIPPIANS 4:4-8

CPC THIS WEEK

JULY 21, 2010

THE E-NEWSLETTER OF CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

VENTING YOUR ANGER

By Tom Stein

     Ever heard that one?  Ever used that one?  “I am just venting.”  “It is okay - you need to vent your anger.”

    What do you think?  I think...maybe.

     A key text on anger is Ephesians 4:26-27: “In your anger do not sin.  Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.”

     In a world of sin, we will become angry, and we are right to be angry at wrong.  If you are never angry, you may be sinfully indifferent to the real wrongs of this world.

     But what are we doing with our anger?  Paul warns against:

     * The length of our anger.  The sun will go down soon.  Will that anger remain?

     * The outcome of our anger.  Satan wants to devour you with that anger.  Will you allow that?

     Let’s use that image of venting.  You are boiling something and producing lots of steam.  Yes, that steam must be “vented,” or the pot will blow.  So maybe there is a proper “ventilation” of anger.

     But what does that look like?  If you simply vent the steam into another pot, or if you somehow vent the steam back into the same pot, the pressure remains - and that pressure will keep building as long as the heat is on.

     Now relate that to anger.  If you vent to someone who feeds your anger, or if you vent to someone who has no ability to challenge you in your anger, or if you vent so violently that you just become more angry, you are simply fueling your anger.  All of that pressure is still building.  The anger will remain.  Satan will win.

     On the other hand, you may vent the steam into the air.  It will quickly dissipate.  This is the venting of sharing your heart with a person who can listen, but will also challenge.  He or she will appreciate your anger, but he or she will also strive to be a calming and directing guide in that anger.

     With anger, we tend to run to the first solution.  We fuel our anger, and it builds more and more.  Instead, we should strive to be in relationships where we can be honest about our anger, but faithfully urged to deal rightly with that anger.

     This is another aspect of self-control.  I will let the “steam” out in a way that will seek its demise, not its development.  Maybe I should vent.  But I should be careful about where I send the steam.

PLEASE PRAY DAILY FOR YOUTH CAMP THIS WEEK!

PRAY FOR:

* Safety - for all.

* Strength - especially for the leaders.

* Sanctity - growth in holiness through worship, teaching and fellowship.

Our teens and adults (20 or so) are scheduled to return Saturday.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

CPC 25TH ANNIVERSARY WORSHIP SERVICE AND CELEBRATION:

SUNDAY MORNING, SEPTEMBER 19

PRAYING FOR THE PERSECUTED CHURCH: NIGERIA

    Voice of the Martyrs reports:

    “Muslims recently attacked Christian villages and killed at least eight Christians in Kaduna and Plateau states of northern Nigeria.”

THIS WEEK’S FRIENDLY REMINDER

Each Sunday morning, our musicians begin leading “gathering songs” at 9:20.

Please join us as we enter our season of worship to the Lord.

 HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

July 24 - Molly Harrington, Cara Tegeler

July 26 - Tim Loyd

July 27 - Nedra Clark

THIS SUNDAY’S SERMON TEXT: LUKE 19:1-10

JULY VERSES TO MEMORIZE: PHILIPPIANS 2:1-11

CPC THIS WEEK

JULY 7, 2010

THE E-NEWSLETTER OF CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

THE WAY WE DISAGREE

By Tom Stein

    Last week, Beth Ann and I attended the 38th Presbyterian Church in America General Assembly in Nashville.   Highlights:

    1. Getting our picture taken with an Elvis statue.

    2. Breaking bread with faithful friends.

    3. Watching men with disagreements, discuss agreeably.

    I will leave Elvis to your imagination, and I will remind you that breaking bread with faithful friends is good for the soul.

    But what about the disagreements?  First, the context.  I volunteered to serve again this year on the Overtures Committee, which deals with the weighty issues we face as a church.

    Last year’s commitee meeting?  Four hours.  This year’s commitee meeting?  Eleven hours (spread over two days, if that makes you feel better).

    That was before the main assembly even started.  That assembly lasted over two days - including a session until midnight Thursday.

    Yes, at times it was (in words I learned from Kari Harrington) like swimming through peanut butter.  When I got home, someone asked me to pass the pepper, and I refused until the request was made in the form of a motion, then seconded, discussed, and passed by a majority vote.

    BUT - as I reflected upon all those hours and all those discussions, I noticed something - everyone talked with kindness, respect and grace.

    Make no mistake - you get a bunch of pastors and elders together, and you have some strong opinions.  There were plenty of opportunities for harsh words.  But for all of those hours, it never happened.

    I say this not to praise men, but to thank God, and to remind us all that this is our calling in Christ.  Whether the subject is planting a church or planting a garden, we will disagree.  But will we do it with the loving spirit that the Bible commends?  Will we model this in our homes, our workplaces, and our congregation?

    In the church, we need to remember that we are on the same side, and that as we disagree, it is an opportunity to grow in God’s grace and show God’s grace.

    I saw Elvis, I saw friends, and I saw grace.  Elvis was Elvis.  The friends were great.  The grace was glorious.

WASHINGTON MISSION TRIP - LEAVING THIS SATURDAY!

PRAY FOR GOD TO:

* Prepare - in these final days.

* Provide - in every way.

* Protect - physically and spiritually.

* Produce - fruit for His kingdom glory!

TEAM MEMBERS:

Mike, Beth, Sam and Peter Allen, Bob Clark, Isaac Cook,

Molly and Ben Harrington, Taylor and Andrew Stein, Kurt and Sadira Steinfort

PRAYING FOR THE PERSECUTED CHURCH: INDIA

    Voice of the Martyrs reports:

    “Two pastors from the Assemblies of God Church denomination were attacked on June 23 in Bangalore, Karnataka, India. The pastors -- Shiju Kuriakose (35) and Jayan (30) - had left a prayer meeting at a fellow believer's house when a group of unknown people began beating them with iron rods.

    “Both pastors were badly injured and were admitted to the hospital.”

THIS WEEK’S FRIENDLY REMINDER

All of the materials on the two foyer racks are free.

Please feel free to take them and share them.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

July 13 - Peter Allen

THIS SUNDAY’S SERMON TEXT: LUKE 13:22-30

JULY VERSES TO MEMORIZE: PHILIPPIANS 2:1-11

CPC THIS WEEK

JUNE 23, 2010

THE E-NEWSLETTER OF CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

**DO I MATTER?**

By Tom Stein

    As some of you know, I am writing a weekly column that appears on the opinion page each Friday in the Pal-Item newspaper (and on-line).  It seemed good to me to share last Friday’s column with you:

    In the shadow of Father’s Day, I am thoughtful.  Pensive.  Contemplative.  But not quite lugubrious (my favorite word in the English language).

    I ponder this: as a father, do I matter?

    Some say not.  The “experts” bounce back and forth on this question, but some will say that I may be nice, but I do not matter.  No father?  No problem.

    After all, it is said, mothers are quite good, and can do quite well, all by themselves.  Even more, look at all the fathers and all their failings.  Would we not prosper without certain fathers?  Would we not survive without any fathers, apart from their biological contribution to the human race?

    No, I do not buy this, and I must not buy this.  Certainly, we admire women who are able to stand strong and love well despite the absence of a father.  If you know a single mom, you should find ways to support her, for she carries an enormous burden.

    But that is the point, isn’t it?  To misuse the old Motown song, it takes two.  To give breaks.  To strengthen.  To encourage.  To balance.  To correct.  To sympathize.  Little and big children require much - too much for one to easily handle.

    I would add, to the frustration of the progressive among us, that the two should be a man and a woman.  We are alike, yet not fully alike.  A man simply brings virtues and abilities to the table that are unique to him - as does the woman.

    I do matter.

    But if that is so, this is so: do I act like I matter?  We live in a culture that urges and even enjoys the Passive Father.  My generation has sometimes been told that Dad ought to be as involved as Mom, but I observe plenty of men who appear to be content to appear on the scene as little as possible, and to be in the game as quietly as possible.

    So if I matter, I have to act like I matter.  I do not dominate, but I participate.  I do not rule blindly, but I lead wisely.  I pursue the quality and quantity time I need to be a good and great influence on the lives of my children.

    Of course, if I do not do this, I will be an influence, anyway.  In my absence, I will rob my children of a huge portion of what they want and need.  I will miss my opportunity to shape the world through the heart of a child.

    I think of a friend.  Through the decisions of others, he was largely booted from the life of his children.  He loves them, and he wants to bless them.  He is far from perfect, but he is miles from useless.  They grow as my children grow, and he feels them going away, slowly but surely.

    It is a tragedy - not just for him, but for the ones he loves.  This world is full of such tragedies - some we cannot control, but some we can.  So if I have contributed all of the biology, I must strive to contribute all I can, to make my child healthy and whole.

    I do matter.  Do I know I matter?  Do I live like I matter?

THIS WEEK - VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

You are invited to the closing program and picnic - Friday at 11:30!!!

THIS SUNDAY, JUNE 27TH...

* Former CPC Assistant Pastor David Young will preach.

* We will honor our high school and college graduates.

* The Outreach Team will host an Ice Cream Social - with dunking booth - at 4 PM.

JULY 3 - CPC GARAGE SALE

Please bring your donations to the garage during office hours.

Questions?  Contact Jane Bumbalough (935-7880)

THIS WEEK’S FRIENDLY REMINDER

Hearing assist devices are available in the sound booth.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

June 24 - Gloria Gibbs

June 27 - Jacob Kehlenbrink

June 28 - David Strain, Mike Adcock

June 30 - Greg Janzow, Libby Loyd

THIS SUNDAY’S SERMON TEXT: PHILIPPIANS 2:1-11

JUNE VERSES TO MEMORIZE: PSALM 19

CPC THIS WEEK

JUNE 9, 2010

THE E-NEWSLETTER OF CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

**THANKS!**

    To all who contributed to a great Pancake Breakfast and a wonderful Kids’ Musical.  Many were blessed by your gifts and graces.

**A SPECIAL PLEA FOR PRAYER**

    The following is from a newsletter published by World Hope International - the agency that supported this year’s mission trip to Sierra Leone.

    Each week, we encourage you to pray for the persecuted church by posting a note with the name of that week’s affected country.

    After you read this, please post “South Africa” and pray for this issue during the World Cup.

    “In the next two weeks, hundreds of thousands of people will flock to South Africa for the world's biggest sporting event- The 2010 FIFA World Cup...

    “The influx of tourists to South Africa has raised concerns about an increase of sex trafficking, as research has shown that international sporting events can increase demand for sexual services.  With Southern Africa already one of the world's most vulnerable areas, we fear that it could get worse still.

    “As I write this, the South African government has not yet implemented a bill against Human Trafficking. Just this week, newspapers reported on the sale and renting of babies in the city of Johannesburg...

    “Starting in June, WHI will partner with World Vision South Africa and the Olive Leaf Foundation to launch another World Cup-focused anti-trafficking project, aimed at spreading the word even further.  We will build on our history of creating long-lasting partnerships with like-minded groups and working with communities, schools and churches to prevent human trafficking...”

THIS SUNDAY, JUNE 13

MONTHLY MERCY MINISTRY OFFERING

CONGREGATIONAL MEETING AFTER WORSHIP

The purpose of this brief meeting is to approve a change in the CPC By-Laws - to return CPC to a January 1 to December 31 fiscal year.

UPCOMING OPEN HOUSES

TONIGHT, Nicole Scheffler - 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Scheffler’s

June 12, Gabe Cook -12:00-3:00 p.m. at the CPC picnic shelter

June 12, Cara Tegeler - 1:00-4:00 p.m. at Steve Tegeler’s (460 SW 5th)

June 12, Christina Uphaus - 5:00-8:00 p.m. at the Uphaus’

June 19, Sarah Bumbalough & Rachel Walden - 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Bumbaloughs’

JUNE 21-25 - VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

No matter who you are, you are a VIP for this ministry:

* V - Volunteer to help.

* I - Invite kids to attend.

* P - Pray for God’s Spirit to work during this time.

JULY 3 - CPC GARAGE SALE

Please bring your donations to the garage during office hours.

Questions?  Contact Jane Bumbalough (935-7880)

PLEASE ALSO PRAY FOR THESE SUMMER EVENTS:

* Washington Mission Trip - July 10-17

* Youth Camp - July 18-24

******

THIS WEEK’S FRIENDLY REMINDER

Email addresses occasionally disappear from our bulk email lists.

If you stop receiving the e-newsletter (on Wednesdays), the weekly prayer lists (on Sundays), and/or prayer requests, please contact the church office.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

June 12 - Debbie Gentry

June 13 - Susan Cougill

June 15 - Doug Byrd

THIS SUNDAY’S SERMON TEXT: LUKE 10:25-37

THIS MONTH’S VERSES TO MEMORIZE: PSALM 19

CPC THIS WEEK

MAY 26, 2010

THE E-NEWSLETTER OF CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

MORAL AND ENTERTAINING  By Tom Stein

    “I know one man at least who is both moral and entertaining.”

    Those words were spoken by a man who knew William Wilberforce.  We know him as the man who tirelessly worked for the end of the British slave trade.  Yet if you read the story of his life, you will discover that others knew him this way, too.  In the midst of his very serious business, Wilberforce was quite a likeable fellow.

    We think of the Christian life as filled with “either/or.”  You can either do this, or do that.  But in this and many other cases, it is actually a “both/and.”

    The Christian lives a holy (and moral) life, not to earn salvation, but in devotion to the God of salvation.  We will avoid what is wrong, and we will do what is right.  We will not apologize for our standards or violate those standards.

    One of the greatest testimonies against Christianity is the immorality of those who profess faith in Christ.  If Jesus changes nothing, why follow him?

    Yet the Christian life is also “entertaining,” in the sense that we are free to enjoy the good gifts of our gracious God.  Life is not merely entertainment.   But there is a time to laugh - and we are free to laugh as heartily as anyone.

    Have you ever heard the word “priggishness”?  This is when you look down on everyone who does not live as you do, with a snooty air of moral superiority.   With this attitude, we will reduce the Christian life to a self-righteous scowl against any and all enjoyment.

    How would you describe yourself?

    Do you strive to live a moral life?  You should!

    Yet do you also demonstrate joy in God’s good gifts?  You can!

    May God give us grace to be moral and entertaining - for his glory, for our good, and as a positive testimony to the people around us.

UPCOMING EVENTS

THIS SUNDAY - MAY 30

Since it is a fifth Sunday...

* The CCYF band and singers will lead the music.

* The sermon will be on a topic requested by one of you.

* We will receive our quarterly offering for our meals at Rock Solid.

SUNDAY, JUNE 6 - OUTDOOR SERVICE AND KIDS’ MUSICAL

Outdoor Service - 8 AM - at Christ’s Ambassador’s - 5353 Hodgin Road

Pancake Breakast Served By the Youth - 9 AM - at church

Kids’ Musical - 10 AM - at church

TUESDAY, JUNE 8 - START OF SUMMER WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY

Angie Bowen will host a Beth Moore study on Esther - Tuesdays at 9:30.

Contact Angie (935-0074) if you are interested in attending!

SUNDAY, JUNE 13 - CONGREGATIONAL MEETING AFTER WORSHIP

The purpose of this brief meeting is to approve a change in the CPC By-Laws - to return CPC to a January 1 to December 31 fiscal year.

JUNE 21-25 - VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Whom have you invited to join us?

PRAYING FOR THE PERSECUTED CHURCH: YEMEN

Voice of the Martyrs reports, “Security forces have rescued Lydia (6) and Anna (4) Hentschel, German sisters who were taken hostage in Yemen last June, along with their parents, brother and four other Christians. ”

SUNDAY SCHOOL

    We will again have a summer break from Sunday School.  We are tentatively planning to resume Sunday School on August 15.

THIS WEEK’S FRIENDLY REMINDER

    Each Sunday morning, our musicians begin leading “gathering songs” at 9:20.  Please join us as we enter our season of worship to the Lord.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

May 29 - Judy Hall

May 31 - Jon Baker, Hannah Tegeler

June 2 - Madeline Steinfort, Mary Brown

THIS SUNDAY’S SERMON TEXT: PSALM 13

MAY VERSES TO MEMORIZE: PSALM 131

CPC THIS WEEK

MAY 12, 2010

THE E-NEWSLETTER OF CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

THE BRAND CALLED “CHRISTIAN”

By Tom Stein

    Two summers ago, our adult Sunday School class discussed a book called “UnChristian.”  The authors wrote challenging words like this:

    “To outsiders the word Christian has more in common with a brand than a faith.  This shift of meaning in recent decades has been magnified by an increasing use of the term Christian to label music, clothes, schools, political action groups, and more.  And sadly, it’s a bad brand in the minds of tens of millions of people.

    “In the middle of a culture where Christianity has come to represent hypocrisy, judgmentalism, anti-intellectualism, insensitivity, and bigotry, it’s easy to see why the next generation wants nothing to do with it.”

    Ouch!  Not every criticism of Christians is fair.  I have learned that some will use hateful excuses to despise Christians and Christianity.

    But as I read those words, I realize there is some truth to them.  I also recongize there is much I cannot change.  But what can I change?  By God’s grace, me.

    Am I a hypocrite before unbelievers, or am I honest about my failings?

    Am I judgmental before unbelievers, or do I confess that I am a sinner, too?

    Am I anti-intellectual before unbelievers, or do I demonstrate that Christians love God with their minds, by wrestling with real questions and offering real answers?

    Am I insensitive before unbelievers, or do I exhibit spiritual qualities like kindness and gentleness?

    Am I bigoted before unbelievers, or do I respect the value of all people, as God’s creatures, made in God’s image?

    The gospel is offensive.  The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing.  Yet we should still ask, “If an unbeliever in my life is offended, is it because of the message of the cross, or because of the messenger of a brand?”

    We are to adorn the gospel through the lives we live and the words we speak.  Some may still choose to be offended, but do we leave them without excuse?

UPCOMING EVENTS

THIS SUNDAY EVENING, MAY 16, 5:30 - MORTGAGE BURNING CELEBRATION

We will roast hot dogs, sing, and celebrate God’s provision!

Singles - bring chips

Letters A-L - bring side dishes

Letters M-Z - bring desserts

Everyone - bring lawn chairs!

The church will provide meat and drinks.

JUNE 6 - OUTDOOR SERVICE AND KIDS’ MUSICAL

JUNE 21-25 - VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

PRAYING FOR THE PERSECUTED CHURCH: IRAQ

Voice of the Martyrs reports, “At least 50 Iraqi Christian students are receiving hospital treatment following a bomb attack outside the city of Mosul that killed at least one person...”

THIS WEEK’S FRIENDLY REMINDER

All the materials on the two racks in the foyer are free. Please feel free to take them and share them!

A WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT

God is blessing us with many visitors these days.  During the greeting time and after the service, how about seeking out a new face, so they may feel welcome?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

May 14 - Doug Miller

May 15 - Kristin Janzow

THIS SUNDAY’S SERMON TEXT: LUKE 7:36-50

MAY VERSES TO MEMORIZE: PSALM 131

CPC THIS WEEK

APRIL 28, 2010

THE E-NEWSLETTER OF CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

EMOTIONS - WHAT TO DO?

By Tom Stein

    If there is one subject that is emotional, it is, well, emotions.  On this emotional topic, we tend to two extremes:

    * Some say, “Emotions are what they are!  Follow them!”

    * Others say, “Emotions are trouble!  Suppress them!”

    Let’s start with this: God gave us emotions.  He could have created robots, but instead He provided us with the ability to feel.

    Then let’s admit this: like everything else, our emotions are victims of the fall.  Just as we do not always think right, we do not always feel right.

    With this before us, we can see that emotions are similar to every other part of our being.  God created them good, but we tend to corrupt them.

    But we are not without hope!  Jesus comes to redeem all of us - including our emotions.  He is the Lover of our souls, and the Lord of our emotions.

    This means we acknowledge the reality of our emotions.  If we deny them, we deny part of who we are.

    But this also means we submit our emotions, like everything else, to the Lover and Lord of our lives.  We say to Jesus, “Remove what is wrong, and redeem my emotions for your glory.”

    For example, you may feel the emotion of anger.  This is a reflection our sense of right and wrong, created in us by God.  In and of itself, it is not wrong.

    But in a fallen world, we may sin in our anger.  So while we may have a right to be angry, we must ask Christ to control and direct our anger, so that we may use that anger for his glory and our good.

    The Christian admits that he or she has emotions.  The Christian feels those emotions.  But like everything else, the Christians offers those emotions to God, with the desire to see Him use them for His purposes.

UPCOMING EVENTS

WOMEN’S RETREAT - THIS FRIDAY AND SATURDAY!

SATURDAY, MAY 8, 2-5 PM - MOLLY HARRINGTON OPEN HOUSE (PLEASE RSVP!)

SUNDAY EVENING, MAY 16 - MORTGAGE BURNING CELEBRATION

JUNE 6 - OUTDOOR SERVICE AND KIDS’ MUSICAL

JUNE 21-25 - VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

PRAYING FOR THE PERSECUTED CHURCH: NIGERIA

Voice of the Martyrs reports the murder of a pastor and his wife in the Nigerian village of Boto.  Muslims are suspected in the killings.

THIS WEEK’S FRIENDLY REMINDER

Hearing assist devices are avalable at the sound booth.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

April 26 - Madison Strain (missed this last week!)

April 29 - Lia Steinfort

April 30 - Tony Angilella

May 1 - Matt Weiss

May 1 - Elsie Wilcox

May 2 - Chris Weiss

THIS SUNDAY’S SERMON TEXT: LUKE 7:1-10

APRIL VERSES TO MEMORIZE: MATTHEW 5:3-12