August 7, 2011 by Worship Director.

After all, who is Apollos? Who is Paul? We are only God’s servants through whom you believed the Good News. Each of us did the work the Lord gave us.  I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. It’s not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What’s important is that God makes the seed grow.  -1 Corinthians 3:5-8

Can someone be a leader if no one is following? It’s something to think about.  Leaders in the Church are important.  Faithful followers are just as important.  Everyone depending on God is what really counts.  It takes many different talents and skills to build a strong church and it’s our God that brings them all together – in the right place, at just the right time.  If we’re called to lead, we have to step up.  If we’re called to follow, we are asked to take direction and be cheerful, dependable support.

It is not important what role we play, but it is critical that we allow God to work through us so that His plants can grow.

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August 5, 2011 by Worship Director.

On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” - Mark 2:17

Julie Andrews captured attention when her beautiful voice echoed, “Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens.” Smiles gleamed with the grand finale of, “When I’m feeling sad, I simply remember my favorite things and then I don’t feel so bad!” How about you? What are your favorite things? Is it a cool breeze after a gentle rain or the fresh smell of pine trees in the hills? Perhaps family visits on the porch, grandchildren giggling or spectacular sunsets? Human nature tends to keep us searching for ways to bring satisfaction to our emotions. When we’re hurt, we tend to put a band-aid on our wounded souls. Though we know band-aids merely cover, we never stop trying.

What’s the answer then? Our Creator, the great Physician, knows how to heal you personally. He loves you like no other.  He knows your needs and is willing to help you rise above. Why doesn’t He take the initiative? We must make ourselves go to the earthly doctors; likewise we must make ourselves go to God. A simple daily reading in the Bible is a good start. There are fascinating stories and far more fascinating works that the Lord will open your eyes to; soon you will see the healing begin. Everyone who has experienced this joy can tell you that it’s one trip to the doctor you won’t regret.

by Ann Reilley

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August 3, 2011 by Worship Director.

Headlights were introduced to drivers in the late 1880s and fueled by acetylene or oil. Acetylene was more popular because the flame was resistant to wind and rain. Though a certain necessity in darkness; oncoming headlights can deter your safe driving skills. Like a deer, our first instinct is to look into the lights. Our advancement in the auto industry has been remarkable in all aspects but one. We still have a time with the oncoming headlights.

Liken this to advancement with Christ. Are we conforming to his remarkable likeness as commanded? Are you in the drivers seat or are you being Spirit led? When we venture out on our own, our presentation of God’s love and promises can be like headlights in someone’s eyes. Granted that God’s word can penetrate for the good of all, we must be prayerfully careful on our approach. In order to run smoothly, we must be in tip top shape both spiritually and physically. Obedience in staying in tune to God’s word daily is easily done with a maintenance schedule.

You will be surprised how well your day will run if you start out reading and studying God’s word. However, looking to the true Light to benefit our life is definitely not instinctive. We tend to run instead. Saying no to the triple chocolate brownie on top of creamy vanilla ice cream, smothered in hot fudge topping is on the most difficult list. Saying yes to exercise instead is completely absurd for many. However, tuning our bodies in all aspects will makes us winners in the race of life. What’s your choice today?

 by Ann Reilley

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