Brothers and sisters,
Grace and peace to you in Jesus Christ!
Sermon Recap
Last Sunday concluded a 4 week series “Soaring in the Lord” with Dr. Greg Tonkinson. A special thanks to him for opening God’s word to us while Pastor Chuck has been away on sabbatical. Over the past 4 weeks, we have considered 1) our identity in Christ and all his blessings; 2) knowing God through his word; 3) trusting God in difficult times; and 4) promoting God by loving our neighbor.
We considered this last point through a study of James 2:1-13. In this passage, we saw that there is to be no discrimination against the poor in God’s church (v. 1-4), for God himself has a heart for the disenfranchised (v. 5). Rather, we are to love our neighbor as ourself (v. 8). We looked at the parable of the Good Samaritan for an illustration of this love, and saw that such love will often require us to get involved in the grime and dirt of another’s situation and needs—Christ certainly did no less for us! So we are to speak and act as those who have received God’s mercy (v. 12-13). What is a way you might show love to someone whom you might ordinarily be tempted to dismiss as unimportant or “not worth it?” How does the truth of the gospel combat that temptation?
4 Weeks
We are 4 weeks out from our 2 Gatherings launch (August 6)! These services will begin at 9:30 and 11:15 am, with connection classes offered during both services. One of our distinctives at Church on Mill is that we are “passionately engaged in both our community and the world.” Dr. Tonkinson’s message was timely as we approach our 2 Gatherings launch. It is our prayer that this change will provide opportunity for more people to be introduced to our church family. Consider how “promoting God by loving our neighbor” can be lived out as we meet people from all walks of life visiting Church on Mill.
Serving
We are so grateful and encouraged by so many of you using your gifts to build up the body of Christ—how much the body benefits when its eyes, hands, ears, feet, and all the other parts are functioning well! Currently, there are still opportunities to serve as we transition to 2 gatherings, especially in the following areas:
- Children’s ministry (Teach elementary school a pre-assigned curriculum)
- A/V ministry (Learn how to do the sound and Powerpoint slides for Sunday morning)
- Fellowship ministry (A number of positions, from being a greeter to helping with special events)
If you have any interest in serving in these areas, or any other area, please send us an email, and someone will follow up with you. Thank you!
Bathrooms
This vital piece of information deserves its own subheading. This Sunday there will be temporary bathrooms available while the old ones continue under construction! That is all.
Your brother in Christ,
Phil Hoshiwara
