We Celebrate Recovery at VCN

Written by Karen Baldizzone, Ministry Leader for VCN’s Celebrate Recovery

Celebrate Recovery (CR) has been offered at VCN for two years. Originally started at Saddleback Church in California in 1991 by John Baker and Rick Warren, CR is offered today in over 30,000 churches worldwide. CR is a Christ-centered, Bible-based 12-Step Program to celebrate God’s healing power in our lives as we work on our recovery. We follow the 8 Principles which are based on the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12) and the Scripturally-based 12 Steps.

There are times when the stress and hurts of life get so overwhelming that it tends to push some to search for unhealthy ways of dealing with it. Some will make decisions that eventually begin to destroy their and their family’s lives. This is when help is needed.

CR is a program for more than issues with drugs and alcohol. This is a program for hurts, hang-ups, and habits. Let me elaborate:

• Hurts – this is where it all began. Some were a child of a dysfunctional family. Some suffered from verbal, emotional, or sexual abuse. Others are dealing with abandonment issues. These are things that can lead to hang-ups.

• Hangups - beliefs we developed about ourselves from our hurts. Some deal with anger, trust issues, recurring negative thoughts, depression, and even fear. These are things that can lead to habits.

• Habits. Some deal with alcohol, drugs, gambling, eating disorders, or codependency issues, just to name a few.

Our habits stem from our original hurts. We must get to the root of these hurts so we can start to heal, and CR helps us do that. The steps and principles in this program allow the participants to dig deep into their past through group meetings. They can share hurts that have impacted them most of their lives and many times address behaviors for the first time. They finally experience the freedom of not being held back by their past. They experience acceptance and love without condemnation, which ultimately helps them grow in their relationship with God. This is achieved through our CR meetings. These meetings are where you delve deep within and work the 12 steps, all of which lead you on the road to recovery.

You are invited to come and check it out. We meet in the VCN Fellowship Hall every Monday evening at 7 pm. For more information, feel free to contact the Church Office at 941-488-5007 or, even better, attend a meeting! We look forward to seeing you soon.

Slowing Down to Enjoy Each Season

By Seta Green, VCN Member

In the summer of 2023, I had the privilege to visit the Holy Land (Israel and Palestine) and walk through the paths Jesus and His disciples would have walked. This was a dream (details for the "why" in another blog) that came true thanks to loving and giving friends and my sweet husband's commitment to making this trip happen (yes, it had been postponed several times). 

We did go to the Holy Land and came back safely. A surreal experience. A crash course on the who, what, where, and when of Jesus. A memorable time. Did I feel Jesus? Did I have a spiritual awakening? Did I bow down and worship? No, I didn't. It didn't happen. If you know me you would know how highly sensitive person I am. I would cry for the slightest reason. Not a tear fell down my cheeks. So what happened? My trip to "be where Jesus was" turned into a mirage. If you know me, you also know that I prefer to avoid sticking to one subject for a long time. Hence, a new paragraph, a new topic, or is it?

I often hear people saying statements like, "Time is passing so fast", and "Where did the time go?" I was at Target on December 2nd when an employee told me to hurry up and buy any Christmas decorations since she was changing that stand to a New Year's Eve stand. WAIT, it is still December 2nd. “Why are you rushing,” I wanted to ask her. Going home, I felt like a child whose doll was ripped away from her. "I don't want to miss Christmas, the coming of Christ, the Son," I was thinking. Thus came the resolution to start an advent reading and commit to it.

On December 4, I was reading Luke chapter four where Jesus was tested in the wilderness. "The devil led Him up in a high place and showed Him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world" (Luke 4:5). The seconds froze and I was taken back to that mountain (what we think was the most probable place), the one I saw in person on my trip to the Holy Land. I recalled seeing a local with his son trying to make a profit from us, the tourists, who were mesmerized by that place. I recall speaking with the little boy who was selling handmade bracelets. Jesus had been right there. Jesus may have seen passersby who may have offered Him food or drink. Jesus had been there and He, God the Son, wanted to be emptied from earthly desires to show the devil what happens to the person who trusts the Lord. Temptations come and go. If you trust in the Lord you say "No, No, No" to the devil's temptations.

It dawned on me that maybe it wasn't going to the Holy Land that was going to bring change in me, but bringing the Holy Land with me as I go. Reading the Bible with the streets, neighborhoods, or towns I have seen in the background of my mind. This season is slowing me down. So slow that I can stop to take in all that Jesus has done for me and you. Take in all that was in mind when the angel appeared to Mary. Take in all the grace and mercy shown on the cross.

Time, slow down so I can enjoy a colorful, meaningful, and life-changing Bible.

January 2024 Events

Happy New Year Everyone! As we move into 2024, we hope you have a chance to reflect and remember important milestones in your life, both the good and the challenging. The constant through it all is God, our rock and our foundation. God held all things together in 2023 and will do the same in 2024 even as God draws us near to guide us into peace, reconciliation, and truth.

FAITH PROMISE WEEKEND (Jan. 27-28)

January at VCN should be renamed Missions Inspiration Month. Faith Promise happens each January. It is the time when we prayerfully consider the amount, above our tithe, we promise to give to mission efforts around the world in 2024. In 2023, our VCN family gave $90,000 to Faith Promise which in turn has helped pay missionary salaries and health care benefits AND support Jesus Film outreach, Christian schools in Haiti and Jordan, church-based community gardening in Eswatini, and refugee outreach in Armenia, to name only a few.

Saturday

To kick off new 2024 Faith Promise initiatives will be our Faith Promise Weekend with special speaker Dr. Eugene Duarte, who served as the Africa Regional Director for many years and retired as General Superintendent this past June. He is now the Vice Chancellor of the African Nazarene University in Kenya. Dr. Duarte will speak on Saturday, January 27th at 10:30 am, followed by a free Chic-fil-A lunch together, then he will be our special guest speaker Sunday morning in the 10:30 am service. Get ready for God to inspire us to make a promise to 2024 mission efforts by faith (hence the term, Faith Promise…..get it?) Start praying now to get a sense of the part God would like for us to play in missions around the world in 2024 and share hope with the world.

Sunday

Sunday Evening Jan. 7th: To get us started early in thinking about FAITH PROMISE….Claude and Sandy Sisler, retired missionaries in Costa Rica (and other places), will share their stories with us. We will gather in the fellowship hall at 6 pm, and donuts and cider will be served for a time of fellowship. Mark your calendar now.

JANUARY EVENTS YOU WILL WANT TO EXPERIENCE:

January 12 - VCN Game Night, 5:30 pm

Bring your favorite game, and rumor has it that chili is on the menu. Sign up at the welcome center and get more information.

January 20 - J.O.Y. (Just Other Youth)

Come visit to the Florida Train Museum, leaving the church at 11 am sharp. Sign up at the welcome center. All Aboard!

January 24 - Allison Speer in the 10:30 Worship Service

Allison Speer will bring inspiration through her music, story-telling, and humor. Invite someone to attend with you and introduce them to your VCN family.

VCN Sunday School Classes

If you are not attending a Sunday school class, then maybe you should resolve to do that in 2024 and start next Sunday at 9:00 am! We have world-class teachers at VCN. If you regularly attend then resolve to convince a friend or two to start making Sunday school a routine Sunday-morning thing to do. The benefits are spiritual growth, making close friends, getting prayer support, knowledge, and answers to questions you don’t even know you have. Don’t let yourself say, “It’s not for me.”

Be resolute in 2024… Sunday School is for Everyone!

Did you know?

We have a LOT going on at the church every week. Here’s a list of some of the opportunities to get involved:

• Men’s Bible Study - Tuesdays at 7 pm in the Fellowship Hall and on Zoom

• Manna Ministry Food Distribution - Sundays at 4:30 in the Fellowship Hall

• Celebrate Recovery - Mondays at 7 pm in the Fellowship Hall

• Grief Share - Saturdays at 10 am

• Men’s Golf Group - Contact Jim Johnston for details

• Women’s Golf Group - Contact Cindy Crabtree for details

• Quilt’n Sew - Thursdays from 9 am-Noon - contact Jan Acton for details

• Children’s Church - Sundays at 10:30 in the Fellowship Hall

• Youth Group - Wednesdays from 6:30-8 pm in the Youth Room

• Weekly Prayer Group - Wednesdays at 5:15 pm in the Sanctuary Foyer led by Pastor Kip

For all weekly church updates including service times, classes, ministry opportunities, special events, and more or to join the church mailing list, click for the VCN Weekly Update.

December 2023 Events

Birthdays & Anniversaries

We have many birthdays and anniversaries this month. Click HERE to see who is celebrating! Perhaps say a prayer for someone on their birthday or anniversary or send a card to let them know they are loved.

Sunday School - Something for Everyone!

Every Sunday during the 9am hour, we have something for everyone - for the young and the young-at-heart! Stop by the Fellowship Hall (the building entrance closest to Venice Avenue) any Sunday at 9am for directions to a class designed just for you!

Gideons International - Bibles for Christmas

Will you help spread the news of the reason for the season? The Gideons would love your help in giving the best gift of all this Christmas season - the good news of Jesus Christ. You are invited to help provide the gift of Bibles through the beautiful ministry of Gideons International. Visit their table in the Sanctuary Foyer on Sunday.

Welcome to VCN - Youth & Family Ministries Director

Rita Lao will be joining VCN as our Youth & Family Ministries Director, and we are preparing the parsonage house for her and her family. If you would like to help get their new home ready for them, please contact the church office today.

Ladies’ Night Out - December 5th - Christmas Edition

Ladies’ Night Out is TUESDAY, December 5th at Waterfrontoo (2205 N Tamiami Trail, Nokomis) at 5 pm. This month is a special CHRISTMAS EDITION. Bring an ornament for the ornament exchange and wear your ugliest Christmas sweater! Contact the church office to add your name to the list. This takes place on the first Tuesday of every month, so if you cannot make it this month, put it on your calendar for next month.

Ladies’ Night of Joy - December 8th

The Women’s Ministry is hosting a Ladies’ Night of Joy on Friday, December 8th at 6:30 pm in Fellowship Hall C. Bring a “white elephant” gift and prepare for a fabulous evening.

VCN PreSchool Annual Christmas Program - December 12th

You are invited to come see our beautiful VCN preschoolers for their Annual Christmas Program on Tuesday, December 12th at 5:30 pm in the VCN Sanctuary. If you want to see these little ones and meet some of their families, this is a great opportunity to do so. Arrive early to take part in the auction fundraiser.

A VCN Family Christmas - December 15th and 17th

You are invited to join us for a beautiful Christmas celebration under the musical direction of Worship Pastor Roger Byrd. Two opportunities to attend: Friday, December 15th at 7 pm and Sunday, December 17th at 10:30 am. Enjoy the music performed by the VCN Choir, Children’s Choir, and special guest Marshall Hall - recording artist, songwriter, arranger, producer, and former member of the Gaither Vocal Band. Please invite your friends, family, and neighbors to join us. Invitation cards are available at the Welcome Center.

Did you know?

We have a LOT going on at the church every week. Here’s a list of some of the opportunities to get involved:

• Men’s Bible Study - Tuesdays at 7 pm in the Fellowship Hall and on Zoom

• Manna Ministry Food Distribution - Sundays at 4:30 in the Fellowship Hall

• Celebrate Recovery - Mondays at 7 pm in the Fellowship Hall

• Grief Share - Saturdays at 10 am

• Men’s Golf Group - Contact Jim Johnston for details

• Women’s Golf Group - Contact Cindy Crabtree for details

• Quilt’n Sew - Thursdays from 9 am-Noon - contact Jan Acton for details

• Children’s Church - Sundays at 10:30 in the Fellowship Hall

• Youth Group - Wednesdays from 6:30-8 pm in the Youth Room

• Weekly Prayer Group - Wednesdays at 5:15 pm in the Sanctuary Foyer led by Pastor Kip

For all weekly church updates including service times, classes, ministry opportunities, special events, and more or to join the church mailing list, click for the VCN Weekly Update.

Advent Reflections

By Pastor Rod Green, Associate Pastor

December at VCN is always a busy, joyful, and meaningful month. The focus of the month is Advent…the season of anticipation and preparation for God to become king. Jesus was born and grew up telling us about the kingdom of God, which is mysteriously near but also here all at the same time. The celebration of Christmas is the miracle of Jesus, the Word of God present at creation, emptying himself to be born under occupation to a simple couple from a despised town distant from the holy city of Jerusalem. “The world turned upside down,” to borrow a phrase from an 18th-century British tune.

Each Sunday in December up until Christmas we will light a candle from the advent wreath. The advent readings this year were written by John Haines, a retired Nazarene missionary who served in the Eurasia Region as Theological Education Coordinator. John has incorporated two Charles Wesley hymns written around 1745 in our readings. Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus is a familiar hymn we sing together every year. The other hymn is Join, All Ye Joyful Nations, which will be used as a congregational response. In case you want to practice, here are the words to this hymn, which so vividly expresses the amazing aspects of Jesus’ birth:

Join all ye joyful nations
The acclaiming hosts of Heav’n!
This happy morn a child is born
To us a son is given.

The messenger and token
Of eternal favor,
God hath sent down to us His Son,
A universal Savior!

The wonderful Messiah,
Joy of every nation,
Jesus His name, with God the fame,
The Lord of all creation.

The counselor of sinners,
Mighty to deliver,
The Prince of Peace, whole love’s increase,
Shall reign in Man forever.

Go see the King of glory,
Seek the heavenly stranger,
So poor and mean, His court an inn,
His cradle is a manger.

Who from His father’s bosom
Now for us descended
Who built the skies, on earth He lies,
By only beasts attended.

Whom all the angels worship,
Hid in human nature;
Incarnate see the deity,
The infinite creator!

See the stupendous blessing
God to us hath given!
A child of man, in length a span,
Who fills both earth and Heaven.

Gaze on that helpless object,
Endless adoration!
Those infant hands shall burst our bands,
And work out our salvation.

Strangle the crooked serpent,
Burn his works forever,
And open set the heavenly gate
To every true believer.

Till then, Thou holy Jesus,
We bow low before Thee,
Our treasures bring, to serve our king,
And joyfully adore Thee.

To Thee we gladly render,
What Thy grace hath given,
Till Thou appear in glory here,
And take us up to Heaven

It will be interesting to see if we can recite these verses without stumbling on the words, but more importantly, I hope we can cherish the sentiment in our hearts and grow in devotion to Christ our King.

Ministry Spotlight: Quilting and Sewing Ministry

Written by Wilma Harris, Quilting and Sewing Ministry Leader

The VCN Quilting and Sewing Ministry began in January 2011. At that time it was known as “Covers for Kids” and was part of the Children’s Ministry. Covers were made and given to children ages 3 years and younger, and each year in May there was a special recognition day during the church service to introduce these young church attendees to the congregation.

Soon the group realized it needed an updated name and mission statement as the group expanded to creating more than these small covers for kids. The mission statement for the VCN Quilting and Sewing Ministry became, “Spreading love, warmth, and friendship through the distribution of lap covers and other handmade items.”

Quilts are often given to our recent high school graduates.

The group of 10 to 20 people meets in the VCN Fellowship Hall A every Thursday from 9 am to Noon. Everyone is invited to attend, and you do not have to attend VCN to participate. We need people of all skills - from quilting and sewing to cutting and sorting. (VCN Weekly Groups Information)

Volunteers can help with a variety of tasks, from quilting and sewing to cutting and sorting.

The Ministry operates through generous donations of fabric, yarn, and other sewing supplies. Occasionally cash donations are received when someone requests a special item to be made. We have also received donations of large items from friends of the group including things such as a rolling storage chest, a sewing machine in a rolling cabinet, and several portable sewing machines. The ministry also purchases things such as batting for the covers and VCN garment label tags which are attached to almost all items.

I’m sure you are wondering what happens to all the items we make. Individual visits are made when we know of someone who is sick, had surgery, or just needs a smiling face to show up at their door. Not only do we visit church members, but we also visit friends of friends and family members. We love referrals and are happy to make the visits. We also mail items when needed.

This ministry meets weekly and is open to anyone who wants to join.

New brides, graduating seniors, and new babies each receive a cover. We support nursing homes, assisted living facilities, small group homes, memory care homes, Sarasota Memorial Maternity Ward, Pregnancy Solutions, The Twig - a foster kids program, Samaritan’s Purse, Family Promise, and areas that are damaged by floods, tornados, and hurricanes. Our largest project was in 2013 when 125 covers were made and donated to Loveland Center School. The largest gift to Samaritan’s Purse was in 2018 when 100 pillowcase dresses (yes, dresses sewn using pillowcases!) were given.

Usually, in May and December, we load the VCN bus up with the “goodies” we have created, hop aboard, and visit and deliver to the homes in the area. It is hard to describe the joy this brings to all the residents we visit.

Heading out to deliver quilts and to share love and comfort with those in need.

Covers are the top priority, but a few of the other items that we make include walker bags, adult clothing protectors, cosmetic bags, tote bags, crocheted and knitted items, glass cases, book bags, baby bibs, burp pads, new baby caps, booties, and receiving blankets.

For one retirement center, we provide a monthly craft hour where our volunteers assist the residents in making the craft of the month.

Please visit the VCN Library to browse through our scrapbooks and enjoy the history of our ministry.

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For additional information about getting involved in the Quilting and Sewing Ministry through participation or donation, contact the VCN Church Office at 941-488-5007.

All Hands on Deck

By Allen Pfundtner, VCN Member

This article is about how our community comes together in service. 

Serving our Brothers and Sisters

Recently I participated in the effort to load the moving truck for our Youth Pastor and his family who were transitioning to a new staff position. It was inspirational how many of our Venice Church of the Nazarene (VCN) community came out to assist, including most of our pastoral staff. 

It all began with Mickey Ray taking the time to call around and see if anyone could come to help this young family load their truck for a big move up to Indiana. I know Mickey contacted many people to come and help, but I think even he was surprised at the response. God will supply all our needs.

I was concerned we might run out of room looking at which had to go on the truck … until Pastor Gary Ball arrived! Pastor Ball was particularly skillful in stacking the truck. There eventually was enough room on the truck for their drum set, full-sized foosball table, and even their theater-sized popcorn maker! Prayers were answered and our community came together to help one of our own. As I have seen so many times before over the years, our VCN community came together to serve.

Hurricane Clean-Up

I have personally experienced the power in God’s people after Hurricane Ian. My home was virtually destroyed when a 60-foot live oak tree landed on it. The faithful people of VCN were prompted by the Holy Spirit to provide a house for my wife and me to live in for nearly 7 months. And, they helped with a large amount of the repairs needed after the contractors finished what they were able to do. About 20 of our VCN friends came to our house to do the kinds of jobs I was unable to do. The following are some before and after pictures showing the blessings of having a VCN family.

I know you may be thinking many churches have work crews who on a very good day might step in to assist, but few would be willing to help out a brother in a disaster such as this.

Proverbs 17:17 says, “A Friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”

I was truly blessed. The selfless nature of our VCN community is priceless. I want to personally thank all of those who participated in the work at my house after Hurrican Ian: Mickey Ray, Gordon Whitten, Denis Romanok, Victor Wu, Domenick Murabito, Gary Jones, Suzanna Hartzler, and Joan Ray just to name a few. I’m sure I am probably leaving someone out, but rest assured I feel blessed by all who helped to get us back into our house.

Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child

Now if you thought construction was the only way our VCN community comes together in service you are very mistaken. Annually VCN is a hub for the Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child Program, where many of our members come together to load boxes and trailers with supplies and Christmas gifts for impoverished children throughout the world.

Gideons - Sharing the Word and Love of God

VCN also has the largest number of Gideons of any congregation in our area. These men and women are responsible for annually leading literally hundreds of men, women, boys, and girls to the Lord through their witness and the sharing of scriptures.

Let’s Serve Together!

We have many opportunities within the church to serve each other and those in our community, locally and globally. God desires all hands on deck. I pray this article will bless you and that you will be inspired to join us in serving as unto the Lord.

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For volunteer opportunities, contact the VCN Church Office at 941-488-5007 or office@venicenazarene.com.

October 2023 Events

Birthdays & Anniversaries

We have many birthdays and anniversaries this month. Click HERE to see who is celebrating! Perhaps say a prayer for someone on their birthday or anniversary or send a card to let them know they are loved.

Sunday School - Something for Everyone!

Every Sunday during the 9am hour, we have something for everyone - for the young and the young-at-heart! Stop by the Fellowship Hall (the building entrance closest to Venice Avenue) any Sunday at 9am for directions to a class designed just for you!

Small Groups starting in October

Are you looking for a small group of friends to help encourage you on your faith journey? Small Groups are forming now and will launch in October. Small Groups meet every other week from October through the spring in homes in Venice and North Port. Each group meeting includes an exploration of scripture, sharing of prayer, and a community of care! Email wendy@venicenazarene.com for more information and to be added to the interest list.

Alabaster Offering - October 1st

We are a global church, supporting the needs of those near and far. Join in this special annual offering on Sunday, October 1 and help build schools, churches, clinics, and child development centers around the world!

Ladies Night Out - October 3rd - NEW NIGHT - TUESDAY

Ladies Night Out is TUESDAY, October 3rd at Old Salty Dog (1485 S Tamiami Trail, Venice) at 5 pm. Contact the church office to add your name to the list. This takes place on the first Tuesday of every month, so if you cannot make it this month, put it on your calendar for next month.

VCN Craft Fair - Saturday, October 14

Bring a friend and come join the fun on Saturday, October 14 between 9am-2pm in the VCN Fellowship Hall. This event benefits the Quilting Ministry.

Women’s Seminar - Saturday, October 21

Join the women of VCN on Saturday, October 21st from 9:30am-2pm. We’ll share in a time of food, fellowship, and fun. Our guest speaker Jennifer Speer will share with us the encouragement of Unshakable Hope! Register at the Welcome Center or call the Church Office. Cost is $10.

Church Membership Classes - October 22 and November 5

Have you ever considered joining the Venice Church of the Nazarene? Want to know more about what we believe? All are welcome to attend the Church Membership classes on October 22 and November 5. Call the church office at (941) 488-5007 or email wendy@venicenazarene.com for more information and to sign up.

Did you know?

We have a LOT going on at the church every week. Here’s a list of some of the opportunities to get involved:

• Men’s Bible Study - Tuesdays at 7pm in the Fellowship Hall and on Zoom

• Manna Ministry Food Distribution - Sundays at 4:30 in the Fellowship Hall

• Celebrate Recovery - Mondays at 7pm in the Fellowship Hall

• Grief Share - Saturdays at 10am

• Men’s Golf Group - Contact Jim Johnston for details

• Women’s Golf Group - Contact Cindy Crabtree for details

• Quilt’n Sew - Thursdays from 9am-Noon - contact Jan Acton for details

• Children’s Church - Sundays at 10:30 in the Fellowship Hall

• Youth Group - Wednesdays from 6:30-8pm in the Youth Room

• Weekly Prayer Group - Wednesdays at 5:15pm in the Sanctuary Foyer led by Pastor Kip

For all weekly church updates including service times, classes, ministry opportunities, special events, and more or to join the church mailing list, click for the VCN Weekly Update.

Member Spotlight - Victoria Dietz

Member Spotlight:

Victoria Dietz

Spouse:

Dominic

Kids:

Sons - Dominic Dietz (10) and Quinn (8) and Daughter - Georgia (4)

Where are you from originally?

Venice, Florida

How long have you been attending or been a member of VCN?

I went to youth group at VCN, left for college, then moved back to Venice, and started a family here.

What do you love most about VCN?

It is like family here. VCN provides a lot of support to our community. We connect the most with VCN staff.

What's something that the VCN family might not know about you and/or your family?

My grandma Claudia Bilbrey sings in the VCN choir and my younger brother, two younger sisters, AND all three of our kiddos have gone through VCN's preschool under the amazing director Ms. Gloria.

What ministries or events are you involved in at VCN? 

Small Groups, Manna, Sunday School, & Praise Team.

What are your favorite bible verses?

“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” Luke 22:42

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6

What are your favorite praise and worship songs?

The Blessing & Same God

My Journey into Discipleship

by Mary Lou Cox, VCN Discipleship Ministries and Bible Study Teacher

For the last few months, I have been researching and reading about the importance of Sunday School. Not only is it vital to the growth of the church, but it is also vital to the lives of children, youth, and adults. I am reminded of how it has impacted my life, and I want to share some of my thoughts.

When Jesus chose the disciples, He went up into the mountains and prayed all night asking God to guide His decisions.

The chosen disciples were not extraordinary but just very ordinary men with common occupations.

I am overwhelmed that this same Jesus prays for me, a common ordinary person.  He calls for me to follow Him and learn from His Word what my role in building His kingdom is to be.

I am thankful that in the 1930s a missionary came to the hills of Eastern Kentucky to start a school for Appalachian children.  That missionary not only started a school but took my mother and her four sisters and started the Dessie Scott Children’s Home when their mother died at an early age. This orphanage was a faith-based facility.  They were taught that God loved them and that Jesus died on the cross so that they might have hope in eternity.

I am blessed that I was taught from as early as I can remember that Jesus loves me, my family loves me, and I am to love others.

As I grew up in church and Sunday School, I thought I was a Christian. I was there for every service, I was a good person, and Jesus loved me….but I began to ask questions at an early age.  My mother explained to me that someday I would have a special feeling and that it would be Jesus talking to my heart.

In Vacation Bible School, the preacher was explaining the love of Jesus, and I felt a special tugging in my heart, and I asked Jesus to come into my heart. 

When I got on the church bus to go home, I looked out the window and the grass seemed so much greener, the sky was bluer, and I felt so clean and pure. It was as if my life was starting over, and it truly was. I knew then that I had to make that personal decision to give my life to Christ.  

That has been nearly 60 years ago. Those years have brought great joy and fulfillment, and happiness but there have been tragedies, sadness, bad times, and difficult decisions also.

His Love Never Changes. He has shown mercy and grace to me in extraordinary ways.  In the valleys, He has restored my soul.

As a child of God, I am to pattern my life after Jesus.  He was a Teacher, a Leader, a Healer, and most of all a Savior who loves others. He expects me to do those things to bring glory and honor to His name.

My prayer is that I become more like Him so others can see the love of Jesus in my life.

I read a statement recently that says, “True beauty of life is not how happy you are but how happy others are because of you.” I challenge you to be the disciple you have been called to be.

In keeping with the Sunday School Promotion I would also say I am where I am in my Christian walk because of loving Sunday School teachers who gave of their time and love to encourage me, teach me the importance of God’s Word, and provide an example of God’s love in actions.

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You are invited to join a Sunday School Class! Every Sunday at 9am, we have something for everyone - for the young and the young-at-heart! Stop by the Fellowship Hall (the building entrance closest to Venice Avenue) any Sunday at 9am for directions to a class designed just for you!