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WE GATHERED TODAY for a Fellowship Meal to honor our graduates.
Middle school graduate: Bobby Huber.
High school graduates: Megan Brackenridge and Ashley McConnaughey.
We signed a card for Tegan Koca who graduated from the Universtiy of Arkansas last Sunday.
ASCENSION DAY & PENTECOST. Next Sunday we will celebrate the out-pouring of the Holy Spirit on the first Pentecost after the resurrection. Between the resurrection and Pentecost are 50 days. Jesus ascended into heaven 10 days before Pentecost. The disciples returned to Jerusalem to wait.
Ascension: Luke 24:44-54 & Acts 1:1-11. Pentecost: Acts 1 & 2.
WEAR RED ON PENTECOST. Symbols of the Holy Spirit vary. Scripture speaks of a descending dove at the baptism of Jesus; and at Pentecost, the sound of a rushing wind and tongues of fire hovering over the disciples’ heads.
Church tradition uses the color red to symbolize the Holy Spirit. As white declares the purity of Christ and green reminds us of our spiritual growth, the purple of advent and lent causes us to pause and reflect on God’s intervention and our own sinfulness, so red reminds us of the purifying fire of the Holy Spirit. Wear red next Sunday to celebrate the Spirit’s work within us and through us.
Reflecting on the Scriptures: THE POWER OF KNOWING
John 17:20-26.Jesus gives the glory of the Father to his disciples “so that the world may know…” that he is sent by God to reveal God’s love.
Acts 16:16-34. As the good news spreads, demons are exposed and defeated—and the desperate are given hope.
Revelation 22:12-17. In John’s vision Jesus promises to return to reward his own; and those who know him say, “Come, Lord Jesus!”
Psalm 97. A call to worship the Lord goes out to all of creation including those who know God.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Pastor's Notes for May 9, 2010
ADDRESSES you will want to note:
Stormy Keith
651 W. Nichols
Springfield, MO 65802
Tegan Koca
1764 N. Leverett Apt. 184
Fayetteville, Ark. 72703
A MEAL TO HONOR OUR GRADUATES.
We will honor our graduates with a carry-in meal next Sunday following our worship. Tegan Koca graduates from University of Arkansas in Fayetteville so add her to our graduate list. Middle school graduate: Bobby Huber.
High school graduates: Megan Brackenridge and Ashley McConnaughey.
NEW BULLETIN BOARD. Thanks to The Crusaders for the bulletin board by the water fountain. The flower garden honors the youngest ones in our congregation. Which group will take the responsibility for the board in July & August?
MOTHER’S DAY. Today our country honors the women who gave us birth and/or nurtured us. On this secular holiday I also think of the women who influenced my spiritual development—especially my maternal grandmother, my Sunday school teachers, and godly women who mentored me.
Take time to thank God for the influence of godly women in your life.
Reflecting on the Scriptures: IN THE ‘NOW’ & ‘NOT YET’
John 14:23-29. Facing death Jesus leaves a gift and a promise—abiding peace and the promised Advocate, the Holy Spirit and shalom to those who love him and keep his word. Jesus’ promises can be ‘Now’ in our lives.
Revelation 21:10, 22—22:5. God reveals the ‘Not Yet’ or the ‘yet to come’ to the Apostle John—the presence of God in the midst of the nations, life giving waters flowing freely.
Acts 16:9-15. We live in the ‘Now,’ looking forward to the ‘Not Yet,’ being obedient to share the good news of Christ.
Psalm 67. May the good news of God’s involvement in this world spread so that all nations can hear and rejoice.
“May God be gracious to us and bless us
and make his face shine upon us.” Psalm 67:1
Stormy Keith
651 W. Nichols
Springfield, MO 65802
Tegan Koca
1764 N. Leverett Apt. 184
Fayetteville, Ark. 72703
A MEAL TO HONOR OUR GRADUATES.
We will honor our graduates with a carry-in meal next Sunday following our worship. Tegan Koca graduates from University of Arkansas in Fayetteville so add her to our graduate list. Middle school graduate: Bobby Huber.
High school graduates: Megan Brackenridge and Ashley McConnaughey.
NEW BULLETIN BOARD. Thanks to The Crusaders for the bulletin board by the water fountain. The flower garden honors the youngest ones in our congregation. Which group will take the responsibility for the board in July & August?
MOTHER’S DAY. Today our country honors the women who gave us birth and/or nurtured us. On this secular holiday I also think of the women who influenced my spiritual development—especially my maternal grandmother, my Sunday school teachers, and godly women who mentored me.
Take time to thank God for the influence of godly women in your life.
Reflecting on the Scriptures: IN THE ‘NOW’ & ‘NOT YET’
John 14:23-29. Facing death Jesus leaves a gift and a promise—abiding peace and the promised Advocate, the Holy Spirit and shalom to those who love him and keep his word. Jesus’ promises can be ‘Now’ in our lives.
Revelation 21:10, 22—22:5. God reveals the ‘Not Yet’ or the ‘yet to come’ to the Apostle John—the presence of God in the midst of the nations, life giving waters flowing freely.Acts 16:9-15. We live in the ‘Now,’ looking forward to the ‘Not Yet,’ being obedient to share the good news of Christ.
Psalm 67. May the good news of God’s involvement in this world spread so that all nations can hear and rejoice.
“May God be gracious to us and bless us
and make his face shine upon us.” Psalm 67:1
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Pastor's Notes for May 2, 2010
NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER. Contrary to the emails that are circulating the National Day of Prayer will be celebrated in our nation on Thursday, May 6. Locally we gather in the Community Center for breakfast and prayer. Have biscuits & gravy at 6:30 a.m. with prayers from 7 to 8 a.m. Be there or be in prayer for our community wherever you are at that time of day.
HONORING OUR GRADUATES with a carry-in Fellowship Meal following our worship services on Sunday, May 16. Our graduating seniors are Megan Brackenridge & Ashley McConnaughey. Moving into 9th grade is Bobby Huber.
WALKER CHRISTIAN CHURCH SALAD SUPPER Monday, May 3 at 6:30 p.m. in their fellowship hall. All women are invited to bring a salad and bring a friend. Speaker will be Nancy Hughes.
Reflecting on the Scriptures: JESUS’ LOVE REVISITED
John 13:31-35. On the night he was betrayed Jesus took a towel, washed feet, predicted his betrayal and denial, then he talked about love! Love was to become a defining quality of the church. Also read: Romans 5:1-8 & 12:9ff; 1 Corinthians 13:1-14:1; Galatians 5:6,13-14,and 22ff.
Acts 11:1-18. Peter declares the love of God to the non-Jews and this love is poured into their hearts by the Holy Spirit! Peter defends his actions to the Jewish believers in Jerusalem. They respond with understanding and love.
Psalm 148. All of creation in heaven and on earth is called to worship the Creator. All people, regardless of social status, age, or gender, are called to declare the glory of God!
Revelation 21:1-6. The old apostle John catches another glimpse into the heavenly realm—a vision of the future where all things will be made new.
COMMUNION MEDITATIONJohn 13:34-35
When John wrote his gospel he did not tell us about the bread and the cup on the night Jesus was betrayed. What John recalls about that night is Jesus humbling himself and washing the disciples’ feet! John recalls Jesus talking to them about loving one another. John also remembers that Jesus prayed for them and for all believers down through the ages.
Matthew, also at the table that night, tells us that on this same night Jesus took bread, broke it and blessed it saying, “This is my body, given for you. Take and eat.” After the meal Jesus took the cup, blessed it and gave it to his disciples—saying “This is my blood of the new covenant poured out for many for the forgiveness of sin.” Let us receive this bread and cup in remembrance of the one who humbled himself, lived among us demonstrating God’s love and commanded us to love one another.
HONORING OUR GRADUATES with a carry-in Fellowship Meal following our worship services on Sunday, May 16. Our graduating seniors are Megan Brackenridge & Ashley McConnaughey. Moving into 9th grade is Bobby Huber.
WALKER CHRISTIAN CHURCH SALAD SUPPER Monday, May 3 at 6:30 p.m. in their fellowship hall. All women are invited to bring a salad and bring a friend. Speaker will be Nancy Hughes.
Reflecting on the Scriptures: JESUS’ LOVE REVISITED
John 13:31-35. On the night he was betrayed Jesus took a towel, washed feet, predicted his betrayal and denial, then he talked about love! Love was to become a defining quality of the church. Also read: Romans 5:1-8 & 12:9ff; 1 Corinthians 13:1-14:1; Galatians 5:6,13-14,and 22ff. Acts 11:1-18. Peter declares the love of God to the non-Jews and this love is poured into their hearts by the Holy Spirit! Peter defends his actions to the Jewish believers in Jerusalem. They respond with understanding and love.
Psalm 148. All of creation in heaven and on earth is called to worship the Creator. All people, regardless of social status, age, or gender, are called to declare the glory of God!
Revelation 21:1-6. The old apostle John catches another glimpse into the heavenly realm—a vision of the future where all things will be made new.
COMMUNION MEDITATIONJohn 13:34-35
When John wrote his gospel he did not tell us about the bread and the cup on the night Jesus was betrayed. What John recalls about that night is Jesus humbling himself and washing the disciples’ feet! John recalls Jesus talking to them about loving one another. John also remembers that Jesus prayed for them and for all believers down through the ages.
Matthew, also at the table that night, tells us that on this same night Jesus took bread, broke it and blessed it saying, “This is my body, given for you. Take and eat.” After the meal Jesus took the cup, blessed it and gave it to his disciples—saying “This is my blood of the new covenant poured out for many for the forgiveness of sin.” Let us receive this bread and cup in remembrance of the one who humbled himself, lived among us demonstrating God’s love and commanded us to love one another.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Pastor's Notes for April 25, 2010
HAVING A PRESENCE AT THE PICNIC. At the last meeting the Board agreed that we should have a booth at the annual picnic this year. Who will help plan and coordinate this project? Already good ideas have begun to surface. Please communicate your willingness to be on the planning committee to the office as quickly as possible.
YOUTH OUTING. Free Concert by ‘Daybreak’ in Lamar this coming Friday, April 30, 7:00 p.m. sponsored by F.C.A. Our van leaves from the FCC parking lot at 5:15 p.m.
If you plan to go tell Pastor Barbara and check to see that we have a signed release form for you. If you bring friends they must have a parent sign their release form also. Bring money for fast food. Expected return, about 10:30 p.m.
Reflecting on the Scriptures: DEVOTION TO GOOD DEEDS
Acts 9:36-43. What characterized life in the ‘called out’ community of faith after the resurrection? We see a community that shared with others, demonstrated concern for the poor, for those ill and dying. In this instance Dorcas is remembered for her devotion to good deeds and charitable acts. Being a seamstress, she provided for others
John 10:22-30. Before his death Jesus was often questioned about his authenticity. Are you the Messiah? In one instance Jesus said, “The works that I do in my Father’s name testify to me.” His good deeds show God’s goodness.
Psalm23. The psalmist celebrates God’s devotion to good deeds! Provision and sustenance, restoration and guidance, comfort in the face of danger, goodness and mercy….
Revelation 7:9-17. Devotion to good deeds does not always receive a good response! Worshipping around the throne of God are those who have come through the great ordeal here on earth, those who died for their faith. And God continues to minister goodness to them, wiping tears from their eyes.
As the congregation gathered we sang “Holy Ground” and the acolytes, Dustin Burlingame and Brandon Parker, lit the candles symbolizing the presence of Christ. Bobby Huber placed the bread and chalice on the communion table. Nina Plaskett called us to worship and greeted our guests. Dr. Cathy Frier shared the Children’s Moment because Dr. Mike was sick. She encouraged us to enjoy God’s beautiful creation and take care of it.
Pastor Barbara continued the sermon series, Life after the Resurrection. What difference did the resurrection make in the life of the early church?
In the first century there was anticipation of the Lord’s immediate return, intentional worship with lives reflecting the holiness of God, and good works like those of Dorcas in Acts 9 or Barnabas in Acts 4.
Faithfulness in doing good is a response to the Lord’s faithfulness toward us. As we devote ourselves to good works there is the danger that we begin to think that God owes us, that we have earned God’s favor. Not true! Ephesians 2:10 says “…we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
The good in us is God’s work, not our own! The good we do is what God planned for us to do!
Anticipation, worship, and good works characterized the first century disciples because the Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead was at work in them. How do we reflect these same characteristics?
YOUTH OUTING. Free Concert by ‘Daybreak’ in Lamar this coming Friday, April 30, 7:00 p.m. sponsored by F.C.A. Our van leaves from the FCC parking lot at 5:15 p.m.
If you plan to go tell Pastor Barbara and check to see that we have a signed release form for you. If you bring friends they must have a parent sign their release form also. Bring money for fast food. Expected return, about 10:30 p.m.
Reflecting on the Scriptures: DEVOTION TO GOOD DEEDS
Acts 9:36-43. What characterized life in the ‘called out’ community of faith after the resurrection? We see a community that shared with others, demonstrated concern for the poor, for those ill and dying. In this instance Dorcas is remembered for her devotion to good deeds and charitable acts. Being a seamstress, she provided for others
John 10:22-30. Before his death Jesus was often questioned about his authenticity. Are you the Messiah? In one instance Jesus said, “The works that I do in my Father’s name testify to me.” His good deeds show God’s goodness.
Psalm23. The psalmist celebrates God’s devotion to good deeds! Provision and sustenance, restoration and guidance, comfort in the face of danger, goodness and mercy….
Revelation 7:9-17. Devotion to good deeds does not always receive a good response! Worshipping around the throne of God are those who have come through the great ordeal here on earth, those who died for their faith. And God continues to minister goodness to them, wiping tears from their eyes.
As the congregation gathered we sang “Holy Ground” and the acolytes, Dustin Burlingame and Brandon Parker, lit the candles symbolizing the presence of Christ. Bobby Huber placed the bread and chalice on the communion table. Nina Plaskett called us to worship and greeted our guests. Dr. Cathy Frier shared the Children’s Moment because Dr. Mike was sick. She encouraged us to enjoy God’s beautiful creation and take care of it.
Pastor Barbara continued the sermon series, Life after the Resurrection. What difference did the resurrection make in the life of the early church?
In the first century there was anticipation of the Lord’s immediate return, intentional worship with lives reflecting the holiness of God, and good works like those of Dorcas in Acts 9 or Barnabas in Acts 4.
Faithfulness in doing good is a response to the Lord’s faithfulness toward us. As we devote ourselves to good works there is the danger that we begin to think that God owes us, that we have earned God’s favor. Not true! Ephesians 2:10 says “…we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” The good in us is God’s work, not our own! The good we do is what God planned for us to do!
Anticipation, worship, and good works characterized the first century disciples because the Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead was at work in them. How do we reflect these same characteristics?
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Pastor's Notes for April 18, 2010
Sorry I am late in posting these notes this week. Time just got away from me!
WORKING LUNCH. Thirteen of us met for the Working Lunch after worship on Sunday, actually we were fourteen, if I count myself. One committee chair and several committee members were present. Some of our newest members, five elders, an elder emeritus and several deacons completed the circle around the table. A more complete report of the ideas we exchanged and plans we made will be forthcoming.
YOUTH OUTING. Free Concert by ‘Daybreak’ in Lamar for high school & middle school, on Friday, April 30, 7:00 p.m. sponsored by Fellowship of Christian Athletes in Lamar. Arrangements are being made to travel with BoB (Bunch of Believers), the youth group from Disciples Christian Church in Nevada.
Our van will leave FCC parking lot at 5:15 p.m. April 30th.
Call the office before next Sunday to reserve your place in the van.
Parental release forms are required for each youth going to the concert.
Take money for fast food. Estimated time of return: 10:30 p.m.
Reflecting on the Scriptures: PASSIONATE WORSHIP
Psalm 30. According to the psalmist, passionate worship extols God’s character—God’s ability to rescue, restore, redeem, and heal; God’s response to cries for help. The worshipper responds to God with praise and thanksgiving, celebrating the reversal of circumstances.
Revelation 5:(1-10) 11-14. Passionate worship surrounding the throne of God and the Lamb! A scene described for a people who were being forced to worship the Roman emperor, ascribing to him all power and might and honor! Read and meditate on Revelation 4 and 5 to experience the ever-expanding circles of worship due God and the Lamb.
John 21:1-19. In the weeks following the resurrection Peter attempts to return to life as usual. Another encounter with the risen Lord brought back old memories of denial and provided opportunity for healing, a reversal of circumstances and a renewed call to follow the Lord even unto death!
Acts 9:1-6 (7-20). Saul (soon to become the Apostle Paul) demonstrates an uninformed passion that led him to persecute the church. An encounter with the risen and ascended Lord turns his world around and, from that point on, he passionately proclaimed the good news. “Jesus is the Son of God!”
WORKING LUNCH. Thirteen of us met for the Working Lunch after worship on Sunday, actually we were fourteen, if I count myself. One committee chair and several committee members were present. Some of our newest members, five elders, an elder emeritus and several deacons completed the circle around the table. A more complete report of the ideas we exchanged and plans we made will be forthcoming.
YOUTH OUTING. Free Concert by ‘Daybreak’ in Lamar for high school & middle school, on Friday, April 30, 7:00 p.m. sponsored by Fellowship of Christian Athletes in Lamar. Arrangements are being made to travel with BoB (Bunch of Believers), the youth group from Disciples Christian Church in Nevada.
Our van will leave FCC parking lot at 5:15 p.m. April 30th.
Call the office before next Sunday to reserve your place in the van.
Parental release forms are required for each youth going to the concert.
Take money for fast food. Estimated time of return: 10:30 p.m.
Reflecting on the Scriptures: PASSIONATE WORSHIP
Psalm 30. According to the psalmist, passionate worship extols God’s character—God’s ability to rescue, restore, redeem, and heal; God’s response to cries for help. The worshipper responds to God with praise and thanksgiving, celebrating the reversal of circumstances.
Revelation 5:(1-10) 11-14. Passionate worship surrounding the throne of God and the Lamb! A scene described for a people who were being forced to worship the Roman emperor, ascribing to him all power and might and honor! Read and meditate on Revelation 4 and 5 to experience the ever-expanding circles of worship due God and the Lamb.
John 21:1-19. In the weeks following the resurrection Peter attempts to return to life as usual. Another encounter with the risen Lord brought back old memories of denial and provided opportunity for healing, a reversal of circumstances and a renewed call to follow the Lord even unto death!
Acts 9:1-6 (7-20). Saul (soon to become the Apostle Paul) demonstrates an uninformed passion that led him to persecute the church. An encounter with the risen and ascended Lord turns his world around and, from that point on, he passionately proclaimed the good news. “Jesus is the Son of God!”
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Pastor's Notes for April11, 2010
OPPORTUNITIES for MINISTRY & GROWTH
Working Lunch, Sunday noon, April 18, in our fellowship hall. I personally invite all members who are longing to grow, especially committees and their chairs. RSVP to the office by Wednesday April 14.
Ozark Lakes Area Leadership Conference, Saturday, April 24 in Harrisonville for church leaders, elders, deacons, committee chairs… Area Minister Mike Weinman will lead the conversation. 10 am-2pm RSVP by April 20.
Beth Moore simulcast event, Saturday, April 24, live via satellite on CCN @ First Baptist Church in Nevada, MO. Tickets are $15 and include lunch. 8:30am-3:00pm. Presentation: SO LONG, INSECURITY by Beth Moore
Joyce Meyer Ministries Conference in Springfield on May 20-21 at JQH Arena. It's free! More information later.
PASTORAL RELATIONS met today, April 11th, after worship. Committee: Mike Frier, Bill Johnston, Quinton Walsh, Lucille Tschanz, Rosemary Lusk, Maxine Carty. Good encouraging meeting. Report will be in the May newsletter.
Reflecting on the Scriptures BLESSED ANTICIPATION
.
John 20:19-31. Disciples huddled in fearful anticipation. Death hung in the air but Life walked through the locked door declaring “Peace!” Fear turned to joy and doubt turned to faith. Jesus blessed us, those who believe without seeing. Jesus' anticipation for the generations to come.
Acts 5:27-32. In the weeks following the resurrection the disciples continued to tell the resurrection story in spite of the council’s strict orders to cease, choosing to obey God rather than human officials. Was their anticipation blessed?
Revelation 1:4-8. Decades later peace continues to be spoken, “Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come….” Blessed anticipation!
Psalm 150. The ancient psalmist calls God’s people to live with an attitude of praise—whether gathering in the sanctuary with a variety of instruments, dancing, singing or walking under the heavens with songs of praise on our lips. Simply praise the Lord, anticipating his blessings!
Working Lunch, Sunday noon, April 18, in our fellowship hall. I personally invite all members who are longing to grow, especially committees and their chairs. RSVP to the office by Wednesday April 14.
Ozark Lakes Area Leadership Conference, Saturday, April 24 in Harrisonville for church leaders, elders, deacons, committee chairs… Area Minister Mike Weinman will lead the conversation. 10 am-2pm RSVP by April 20.
Beth Moore simulcast event, Saturday, April 24, live via satellite on CCN @ First Baptist Church in Nevada, MO. Tickets are $15 and include lunch. 8:30am-3:00pm. Presentation: SO LONG, INSECURITY by Beth Moore
Joyce Meyer Ministries Conference in Springfield on May 20-21 at JQH Arena. It's free! More information later.
PASTORAL RELATIONS met today, April 11th, after worship. Committee: Mike Frier, Bill Johnston, Quinton Walsh, Lucille Tschanz, Rosemary Lusk, Maxine Carty. Good encouraging meeting. Report will be in the May newsletter.
Reflecting on the Scriptures BLESSED ANTICIPATION
.
John 20:19-31. Disciples huddled in fearful anticipation. Death hung in the air but Life walked through the locked door declaring “Peace!” Fear turned to joy and doubt turned to faith. Jesus blessed us, those who believe without seeing. Jesus' anticipation for the generations to come.
Acts 5:27-32. In the weeks following the resurrection the disciples continued to tell the resurrection story in spite of the council’s strict orders to cease, choosing to obey God rather than human officials. Was their anticipation blessed?
Revelation 1:4-8. Decades later peace continues to be spoken, “Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come….” Blessed anticipation!
Psalm 150. The ancient psalmist calls God’s people to live with an attitude of praise—whether gathering in the sanctuary with a variety of instruments, dancing, singing or walking under the heavens with songs of praise on our lips. Simply praise the Lord, anticipating his blessings!
Monday, April 5, 2010
Easter Sunday 2010
Last Sunday Christians around the world gathered to celebrate the resurrection. Some spent Saturday in a prayer vigil and celebrated the resurrection shortly after midnight. Others gathered at sunrise to remember the discovery of the empty tomb. The Ministerial Association hosted a sunrise service at First Baptist Church. Several denominations gathered to worship together. Retired Pastor Jim Smith from the United Methodist Church brought the message: He is Risen! He is risen, indeed! Disciples Men from First Christian Church hosted a community breakfast after the sunrise service. Several trekked down from the Baptist Church for pancakes in the Christian church fellowship hall.
Later as the congregation gathered, special music helped us raise our praise to the Risen Lord. Darlene Walsh led worship. Elders Kyle Vickers and Jim Pope presided at the Lord’s Table. Pastor Barbara emphasized the implications of the resurrection for life today, concluding that the resurrection is much more than a doctrine to be learned and affirmed. Resurrection is a spiritual reality to be integrated into the very core of our being and manifest in the fabric of our daily life. “…if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies….” Romans 8:11
John Leonard provided the Children’s Moment. After the service Mary Horn and Berta Anderson distributed homemade baskets to the children. Each basket contained special goodies and a book telling the resurrection story.
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