E-Blast
May 25, 2023
FBCSCW E-Blast
Devotional Thought
Hypocrisy
Passage: Luke 13:10-17
Focal: Luke 13:15 “The Lord answered him, ‘You hypocrites! Doesn’t each of you on the Sabbath untie your ox or donkey from the stall and lead it out to give it water? Then should not this woman, a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has kept bound for eighteen long years, be set free on the Sabbath day from what bound her?’”
Hypocrisy was on full display during COVID-19 as numerous political figures, public figures, and celebrities pushed the need to be always masked and stay 6-feet apart when out amongst people.
Yet, there were many news reports, with clear evidence, that those same political, public figures, and celebrities disregarded their own rules and instructions as they partied, went shopping, or had services rendered, had dinner parties, and met with crowds in public. This is the height of hypocrisy.
Religious people are no different. Some have interpreted God’s word to be a very strict code that they have deemed the best interpretation and made rules and instructions that they have rigorously taught and enforced through the centuries to this very day. This is called “legalism.”
The Jewish leaders of Jesus’ day had over 1500 rules and instructions just to interpret. Exodus 20:8-10a which says, in part, “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.”
In our passage Jesus is addressing this very issue. Jesus was teaching on the Sabbath (Saturday) in one of the synagogues and a woman who was crippled came to hear Him speak. It is interesting to note that Jesus knew that she was crippled by a “spirit.” In verse 18 He identifies this “spirit” further, “whom Satan has kept bound for eighteen long years.” Very insightful.
First, Jesus “saw” her. He sees all of our issues, infirmities, and hurts. Second, He freed her after calling her forward and saying “Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.” He didn’t say He healed her, but she was “set free.” Jesus understood the difference, and, in this situation, it was freedom.
The synagogue leader became indignant because Jesus “healed” on the Sabbath. He saw this as a teaching moment for the people in his synagogue. According to Exodus 20, you can work six days out of the week but on the seventh day you must rest and keep the day holy.
He missed two things. First, he couldn’t see that this was spiritual warfare and what Satan had done this to the woman, so he thought Jesus just “healed her.” Second, he had looked to the over 1500 “rules” for keeping the Sabbath holy and decided that “healing” was work therefore condemned it.
Jesus pointed out that “Sabbath was made for man” and called the leader saying to him and other religious leaders and legalist “hypocrites.” Why? Because they even broke their own rules by untying their animals, getting them out of their stalls and taking them to water. In other words, no matter what you call it, it was “work.”
Jesus wanted them to see the bigger picture, the spiritual picture, and the heart of God towards ministry and compassionate care. This woman needed help even on the Sabbath. He is communicating that God is always ready to help if we will seek Him. This woman came to hear Jesus teach and, in essence, seeking Him. Her faith was rewarded.
You can come to Him with anything at any time and He will hear you. You can minister to others with compassionate care at any time and God will smile upon you.
The religious leaders and opponents were humiliated but the people were delighted with the wonderful things Jesus was doing. Freedom from burdens and spiritual bondage. There is nothing like it.
Jesus, please help me to look beyond what I think is right and walk close enough to You to know Your heart so that I can show compassionate care and Your love everywhere I go. Help me to be attuned to any hypocrisy in my life. Amen.
Sermon Sunday
Title: Confrontation with God
Text: Exodus 3:1-6, 14
Focus: The whole of the spiritual life focuses on only one point – your personal confrontation with God as He really is. Come this Sunday to see what that means for you.
Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God
This summer we have a special opportunity for you! Dr. Kennedy will be leading a Bible Study entitled Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God. During this study, you will learn seven key realities about God that can open the door to a deeper faith, greater obedience, and profound change in your life.
The study begins Thursday, June 8 and continues for 13 weeks (ends August 31) and will meet from 10 – 11:30am each week.
The study is flexible! You choose how in-depth you want to go. Come for the class only or dig deeper by doing the weekly homework – it’s your decision.
Books will be available for $10.00 each.
Sign-ups continue this Sunday. When signing up, please indicate it you wish to purchase a book.
Make plans to attend! You will be blessed! Some studies help you know the Bible. This one helps you know the Author. It will also lead you into a deeper love relationship with God, teaching you to pray and hear from God like you never have before.
Men’s Fellowship Breakfast
Men, on Tuesday, June 6 make plans to attend our Men’s Fellowship Breakfast. The best homecooked meal in SCW will be served at 8:00am. Come enjoy great fellowship and great food. Rich Wetherell will be sharing his testimony. The cost is only $4.00 and sign-ups continue this Sunday.
Partners on Mission and “Let’s Have a Picnic” Potluck
On Wednesday, June 7 at 4:00pm join us for our next Partners on Mission. Bryson Isom from Relentless Church will be speaking and updating us on the happenings at Relentless.
The theme for our potluck dinner is “Let’s Have a Picnic!” Sign-ups continue this Sunday for these picnic items: Fried Chicken, Salads, Baked Beans, Cookies or Cupcakes.
Please make plans to attend and invite your friends!
Cards for Carol Woods
Carol Woods has retired. She is going to be moving to Washington state to be closer to her son, Patrick. We will recognize her and her years of service during the worship service this coming Sunday, May 28. Please bring cards for her and place them in the baskets which are in both lobbies.
Women’s Fellowship Lunch and Game Day
Women – at 12 noon on Monday, June 12, make plans to join us in the CLC for lunch (please bring your own). After we eat and fellowship, we will play Mexican Train! If you have dominos, please bring them. This is a great way to spend a hot summer afternoon and a great opportunity to bring your friends!
Love in Action through “Just One Thing”
During the month June, please bring dog or cat food (canned or dry) for St. Mary’s Food Bank.
Office Closed for Memorial Day
The church office will be closed Monday, May 29 in observance of Memorial Day. We will reopen on Tuesday morning at 8:00am.
Upcoming Changes to the E-Blast Schedule
Starting in June, we will no longer be sending weekly E-Blasts. Instead, we will send one E-Blast a month, on the third Thursday. The E-Blast will include all the exciting things it currently does, as well as the Midpoint Connection (which we have been sending out the first Wednesday of every month).
The Upbeat will continue to be mailed so that you receive it by the first of each month.
We hope you will enjoy this change.
Have a wonderful weekend!
May 18, 2023
FBCSCW E-Blast
Devotional Thought
“Go and Do Likewise”
Passage: Luke 10:25-37
Focal: Luke 10:37 “The expert in the law replied, ‘The one who had mercy on him.’ Jesus told him, ‘Go and do likewise.’”
The Parable of the Good Samaritan tells the story of a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho, and while on the way he is robbed of everything he had, including his clothing, and is beaten and left for dead.
A priest happens down that path. The priest shows no love or compassion for the man and pass him on the other side of the road so as not to get involved.
If there was anyone who would have known God’s law of love, it would have been the priest. By nature of his position, he was to be a person of compassion, desiring to help others. But, to him, “love” was not a word that required action on behalf of someone else.
The next person to pass by in this Parable is a Levite, and he does exactly what the priest did: he pass by without any action of compassion. He also would have known the law, but he fails to show the injured man compassion.
The next person to come by is the Samaritan, the one least likely to have shown compassion for the man. Samaritans were considered a low class of people by the Jews since they had intermarried with non-Jews and did not keep all the law. The Jews would have nothing to do with them.
The “Good Samaritan” sees only a person in dire need of assistance, and he assists him, above and beyond the minimum required. He dresses the man’s wounds with wine (to disinfect) and oil (to soothe the pain). He puts the man on his animal and takes him to an inn for a time of healing and pays the innkeeper with his own money.
He then goes beyond common decency and tells the innkeeper to take good care of the man, and he would pay for any extra expenses on his return trip. The Samaritan saw his neighbor as anyone who was in need.
Jesus is drawing a strong contrast between those who knew the law and those who followed the law in their lifestyle and conduct. Jesus now asks the lawyer if he can apply the lesson to his own life with the question, “So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?" The lawyer refers to the “good man” as “he who showed mercy.” “Mercy” appears in the Bible as it relates to forgiveness or withholding punishment.
Jesus then tells the lawyer to “go and do likewise,” meaning that he should start living what the law tells him to do. These words apply to us as well.
Jesus is telling us to follow the Samaritan’s example in our own conduct. We are to be merciful. We are to show compassion and love for those we encounter in our everyday activities. We are to love and value others regardless of their race or religion.
The key is their need. If they need and we have the supply, then we are to give generously and freely, without expectation of return.
This is an impossible obligation for the lawyer, and for us. We cannot always keep the law because of our human condition; our heart and desires are mostly of self and selfishness. We need mercy from God through Jesus Christ. When we receive Christ, we are transformed. That transformation now means we are to “go and do likewise.”
Father, help me to look beyond myself, my need and my self-centeredness and see the needs around me and not just see but act. Help me to be sensitive enough to “go and do likewise.” Help me to show mercy all the time and to everyone. Amen.
Sermon Series Finale: Joy for the Journey
Title: LEARNING TO HANDLE LIFE ON THE JOURNEY
Text: Phil. 4:10-19
Focal Point: In our passage of scripture, Paul wrote that he has learned the secret of how to handle life. He has been through so much and has learned so much. He is sharing these important lessons with the church. Come this Sunday and finish this series strong as we look at these “secrets.”
Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God
This summer we have a special opportunity for you! Dr. Kennedy will be leading a Bible Study entitled Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God. During this study, you will learn seven key realities about God that can open the door to a deeper faith, greater obedience, and profound change in your life.
The study begins Thursday, June 8 and continues for 13 weeks (ends August 31) and will meet from 10 – 11:30am each week.
The study is flexible! You choose how in-depth you want to go. Come for the class only or dig deeper by doing the weekly homework – it’s your decision.
Books will be available for $10.00 each.
Sign-ups continue this Sunday. When signing up, please indicate it you wish to purchase a book.
Make plans to attend! You will be blessed! Some studies help you know the Bible. This one helps you know the Author. It will also lead you into a deeper love relationship with God, teaching you to pray and hear from God like you never have before.
Healing for Hurting Hearts
Women, if you are looking for a safe, confidential place to share and heal in a non-judgmental atmosphere, then make plans to attend Healing for Hurting Hearts on Friday, May 19 at 10:00am. If you have questions or need more info, please contact Sharon La Rose, Gail Coffey or Meda Cates.
Movie Matinee
Our next Movie Matinee is on Thursday, May 25.
Lunch is $5.00 per person and will be served at 12:30pm. This Sunday is the last day to sign up for lunch. Because we have to pay for lunch ahead of time, we only order for those that have signed up ahead of time.
The movie starts at 1:00pm and is free. Popcorn and water will be served.
This month’s movie is Indivisible. Here’s a synopsis:
Fresh out of the seminary and basic training, Army Chaplain Darren Turner receives orders to deploy to Iraq, leaving his wife behind to care for their three young children. The harsh realities of war soon take their toll on Turner and his battalion, making it hard to stay connected to his beloved family. When Darren finally comes home, the Turners must decide if they're willing to face one more battle -- the fight to save their marriage.
Men’s Fellowship Breakfast
Men, on Tuesday, June 6 make plans to attend our Men’s Fellowship Breakfast. The best homecooked meal in SCW will be served at 8:00am. Come enjoy great fellowship and great food. Rich Wetherell will be sharing his testimony. The cost is only $4.00 and sign-ups begin this Sunday.
Partners on Mission and “Let’s Have a Picnic” Potluck
On Wednesday, June 7 at 4:00pm join us for our next Partners on Mission. Bryson Isom from Relentless Church will be speaking and updating us on the happenings at Relentless.
The theme for our potluck dinner is “Let’s Have a Picnic!” Sign-ups begin this Sunday for these picnic items: Fried Chicken, Salads, Baked Beans, Cookies or Cupcakes.
Please make plans to attend and invite your friends!
Cards for Carol Woods
Carol Woods has retired. In fact, today is her last day in the office. She is going to be moving to Washington state to be closer to her son, Patrick. We will recognize her during the worship service on Sunday, May 28. Between now and then, you may bring cards for her and place them in the baskets which are in both lobbies.
Love in Action through “Just One Thing”
During the month May, please bring canned veggies and fruit for St. Mary’s Food Bank.
Upcoming Changes to the E-Blast Schedule
This summer we will be revising our weekly E-Blast to a monthly E-Blast. The monthly E-Blast will be sent on the third Thursday of each month as an update to our monthly Upbeat newsletter, which is mailed to arrive in your homes the first of each month. We hope you will enjoy this change and still be informed about the ministry at FBCSCW.
Have a wonderful weekend!
May 11, 2023
FBCSCW E-Blast
Devotional Thought
Willing to be Mentored
Passage: Luke 9:10-17
Focal: Luke 9:13 “He replied, ‘You give them something to eat.’ They answered, ‘We have only five loaves of bread and two fish – unless we go and buy food for all this crowd.’”
It was a family tradition to go to Royal Ambassador Camp each year when I was growing up. I was a camper, my brother a Group Counselor, and my mom and dad helped in the craft shops for the week. I anticipated it each year.
To be a Counselor you had to be 16. The summer I was 15 we went to camp as usual. I was called into “Chief” Lawson’s office and this gruff retired Navy vet looked me up and down and said, “We are short Counselors this week. Do you think you can do the work?” With a trembling voice and lack of confidence I said, “Yes, sir.”
For the next four summers I was a Counselor at three to four camps each summer under the leadership of Chief Lawson. He became a mentor of mine…like a second dad. I learned so much from him. Why? Because he invested in my life by example, by teaching and by trusting me to accomplish the tasks given to me.
Jesus is mentoring the disciples He has called to follow Him and, even more, to “turn the world upside down.” Jesus had been teaching the crowds of people who had followed Him because they were enamored with His teaching and healing. They knew this was a special movement of God even though they didn’t understand the full revelation.
The disciples had returned from their evangelistic mission. They saw the crowds and watched as Jesus “spoke to them about the kingdom of God and healed those who needed healing.”
Even seeing these miraculous signs and hearing the eternal truths they had limited or a narrowed perspective of ministry. Their minds went to practical and administrative defaults. The 12 pulled Jesus aside and said, paraphrasing, “Jesus, You need to stop teaching. You need to send these people away to get food and find a place to stay because there is nothing around here.”
In was in these episodes of His mentoring that Jesus took time for the “teachable moments.” He said to them, “You give them something to each.” The solution was not to send them away but take on the responsibility of meeting their needs.
They only had five loaves and two fish from a child unless they went into town and bought enough food for 5000 men plus women and children. That was likely more than they had in their treasury.
Isn’t that what we do at times? God speaks to our heart urging us to go about a task/mission and our first reaction is, “Oh, I can’t do that, or “I don’t have the time or gifts, but who can I recommend doing this task?”
When God presents us with an opportunity and a task to accomplish our response should be, even with a trembling voice and a lack of confidence, “Yes, sir.” Then trust Him to supply all that we will need to accomplish that to which He has called us.
There are several lessons in this passage that are applicable. First, notice that Jesus “welcomed” the crowd. People in need should never be a negative for us. We must value them. We should welcome them and strive to share both the light of the kingdom and compassionate care.
Second, Jesus wants to work in and through us to meet the needs of people. He dismisses their idea of passing the buck and sending the people elsewhere.
Third, He teaches His disciples leadership qualities to meet needs. He wanted them to find what resources were available to them and give those resources to Him to multiply so the needs could be met. In this case, they were sent to find what food was available (five barley loaves and two fishes).
He then taught them how to best organize for success. He said, “Have them sit down in groups of about fifty each.” The disciples followed His teaching and created these small groups for easy distribution.
He then taught them to pray showing complete reliance, faith, and thankfulness to God. Thankfulness and trust are two vital actions believers must maintain before the Almighty to be successful and show humility.
He taught and delegated to the disciples the action plan(s) that would meet the needs of the people. The people came for spiritual food and healing. High priorities. During this journey of growth, the physical hunger manifested itself. Jesus helps us to remember that those needs are great as well. So, in our plans we must be flexible when unplanned needs arise.
He taught them that “with God nothing is impossible.” Luke writes in verse 17, “They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.”
May we take these lessons to heart and never pass off the task/mission God has given us the opportunity to fulfill but allow Him to work in and through us even in our weakness.
Father, As the prophet Isaiah so long ago said, “Here am I, send me.” These are my words from the heart. Thank you for mentoring me and giving me insight and strength to know Your words and act accordingly. Amen.
Sunday Sermon – Mother’s Day: Honoring Women
Title: The Touch
Text: Mark 5:24-34
Focus: Jesus always draws a crowd where He is present. In that crowd some touch Him inadvertently and some out of curiosity. There is a profoundly personal touch that does contact the healing power of the Lord Jesus Christ. That touch recognizes personal hopelessness and rests everything on His power to make whole. Come this Sunday and encounter the differences in the touches.
We will be honoring all ladies during Sunday’s service with a special gift.
Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God
This summer we have a special opportunity for you! Dr. Kennedy will be leading a Bible Study entitled Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God. During this study, you will learn seven key realities about God that can open the door to a deeper faith, greater obedience, and profound change in your life.
The study begins Thursday, June 8 and continues for 13 weeks (ends August 31) and will meet from 10 – 11:30am each week.
The study is flexible! You choose how in-depth you want to go. Come for the class only or dig deeper by doing the weekly homework – it’s your decision.
Books will be available for $10.00 each.
Sign-ups begin this Sunday. When signing up, please indicate it you wish to purchase a book.
Make plans to attend! You will be blessed! Some studies help you know the Bible. This one helps you know the Author.
Healing for Hurting Hearts
Women, if you are looking for a safe, confidential place to share and heal in a non-judgmental atmosphere, then make plans to attend Healing for Hurting Hearts on Friday, May 19 at 10:00am. If you have questions or need more info, please contact Sharon La Rose, Gail Coffey or Meda Cates.
Movie Matinee
Our next Movie Matinee is on Thursday, May 25.
Lunch is $5.00 per person and will be served at 12:30pm. To reserve lunch, please sign up no later than Sunday, May 21. We only order lunch for those that have signed up ahead of time.
The movie starts at 1:00pm and is free. Popcorn and water will be served.
This month’s movie is Indivisible. Here’s a synopsis:
Fresh out of the seminary and basic training, Army Chaplain Darren Turner receives orders to deploy to Iraq, leaving his wife behind to care for their three young children. The harsh realities of war soon take their toll on Turner and his battalion, making it hard to stay connected to his beloved family. When Darren finally comes home, the Turners must decide if they're willing to face one more battle -- the fight to save their marriage.
Love in Action through “Just One Thing”
During the month May, please bring canned veggies and fruit for St. Mary’s Food Bank.
Have a wonderful weekend!
May 4, 2023
FBCSCW E-Blast
Devotional Thought
Sent Out
Passage: Luke 9:1-10
Focal: Luke 9:6 “So they set out and went from village to village, proclaiming the good news and healing people everywhere.”
Not long after I accepted God’s calling to ministry, my uncle invited me to preach a “Youth Revival” at his church in Northern New Mexico. I knew God had called me to preach. My father had shared with me the basics of preparing a message and allowed me to preach periodically on Sunday nights when I could get home from college.
But a whole weekend revival with four services?
That might have been what the disciples felt like when Jesus sent them off to “proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.” When Jesus sent them out, He told them to take nothing with them. They had clothes on their backs and a message to share.
By the time I got to the small town, I had three sermons ready to go. I figured God would give me a message for the Sunday night service over the weekend. God did bless and there were public decisions made that weekend. I met a high school student who would later be the Minister of Music at the second church I pastored. God called, made provision, and His Spirit was experienced that weekend.
God calls us to do ministry and share the good news of Christ. As part of His call to salvation He also calls us to a ministry of reconciliation (II Cor. 5:18). Like the disciples in our passage how can we accomplish what He has called us to do?
This passage gives some excellent principles which will help all of us. First, what God has called us to do He will prepare us and provide what is needed. Luke tells us in verse one, “he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases.”
Jesus provided everything that the disciples needed to accomplish what He had called them to do at that time. He will do the same for you.
Second, when we are faithful to the ministry to which God has called us, it will make an impact for God’s kingdom. Our focal verse states, “So they set out and went from village to village, proclaiming the good news and healing people everywhere.”
Luke communicated the impact it made in verses 7-9. Herod the tetrarch, who had John the Baptist beheaded, “heard about all that was going on.” In verse nine, he stated, “Who, then is this I hear such things about?” The impact was made.
Those healed and those who became followers of Jesus were impacted by the faithfulness of these disciples, and not only those but also people in high places began to hear and question. Your faithfulness to God’s calling in ministry will make a difference.
Third, there will be accountability. Jesus had sent and empowered the disciples to meet the needs of people. They were faithful in that task. It is good to be reminded that God will always hold His people accountable. Luke tells us in verse 10,“When the apostles returned, they reported to Jesus what they had done.”
When God calls us to a task, He expects us to be faithful to fulfill that task. Throughout scripture it clearly shows being found faithful is vital as is God’s accountability (James 3:1; Luke 12:33; I Cor. 3:11-15; Matt. 10:41; 16:27; Eph. 6:8).
Father, help me to continue to hear Your voice and be faithful to the calling You have laid upon my life. Help me to have compassion for those hurting and the power to share the gospel to those lost. Find me faithful, dear God. Amen.
SERMON SERIES: JOY FOR THE JOURNEY
Title: Peace for the Journey
Text: Phil. 4:4-7
Focus: Do you ever worry? Are you ever anxious? Worrying is a problem common to all of us, but some handle it better than others. Paul had a word for the worrier. He focused on Peace for the Journey. Join us on Sunday to learn more about that Peace in all circumstances.
Shelf Building Workday – Part 2
All Men and Women are invited to assist the Building & Grounds Team with shelf building this Saturday, May 6 at 6:00am. Please bring rubber mallets (if you have them). Coffee and donuts will be provided.
These are shelves for the 40 foot storage unit which will soon be needed. It will be a great time of fellowship, and you will be finished early because we are starting at 6:00am to beat the sun. See you there!
Women’s Fellowship Lunch
Next Monday, May 8 is our Women’s Fellowship. Please come at 12 noon, bring your own lunch, enjoy great fellowship time and discussions that will encourage and enhance your life.
Weekly Churchwide Prayer Meeting
We meet for churchwide prayer on Tuesdays at 10:45am. This time is spent praising God through song, praying for the needs in our church, and around the world. You do not need to pray aloud, just come and join asking God to heal our brothers and sisters, our nation, and our world.
Single Only Sisters for ALL Women in May
Next Thursday, May 11 at 2:00pm, Single Only Sisters is inviting ALL WOMEN of the church to join them for a fun afternoon. You’ll be making flower arrangements for the tables in the Christian Life Center. So that we have enough flowers and arrangement making supplies, make sure to sign up no later than this Sunday.
Healing for Hurting Hearts
Women, if you are looking for a safe, confidential place to share and heal in a non-judgmental atmosphere, then make plans to attend Healing for Hurting Hearts on Friday, May 19 at 10:00am. If you have questions or need more info, please contact Sharon La Rose, Gail Coffey or Meda Cates.
Movie Matinee
Our next Movie Matinee is on Thursday, May 25.
Lunch is $5.00 per person and will be served at 12:30pm. To reserve lunch, please sign up no later than Sunday, May 21. We only order lunch for those that have signed up ahead of time.
The movie starts at 1:00pm and is free. Popcorn and water will be served.
This month’s movie is Indivisible. Here’s a synopsis:
Fresh out of the seminary and basic training, Army Chaplain Darren Turner receives orders to deploy to Iraq, leaving his wife behind to care for their three young children. The harsh realities of war soon take their toll on Turner and his battalion, making it hard to stay connected to his beloved family. When Darren finally comes home, the Turners must decide if they're willing to face one more battle -- the fight to save their marriage.
Love in Action through “Just One Thing”
During the month May, please bring canned veggies and fruit for St. Mary’s Food Bank.
Sunday Morning Transportation Needs
We have several church members that need rides to and from church on Sunday. Would you be willing to help? If yes, please call the church office!
Volunteers Needed for the Samaritans Ministry!
We need your help! We have several church members who are no longer able to attend due to age and health issues. We have a team that contacts these members on a weekly basis. This team is called Samaritans.
The Samaritans Team meets here at the church on the first and third Wednesdays of the month at 9:30am to share updates about the contacts they’ve made.
If you would be willing to step up and volunteer a bit of your time to visit, call, and send cards to these members, please call the church office.
Have a wonderful weekend!
April 27, 2023
FBCSCW E-Blast
Devotional Thought
When the Storm Drops in for a Visit
Passage: Luke 8:22-25
Focal: Luke 8:25b “In fear and amazement they asked one another, ‘Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him.’”
Lake Heron is a small but beautiful lake in northern New Mexico. Our family would take our camper and 12ft boat and spend a week or two just enjoying nature and catching trout from the lake.
I learned a powerful lesson about nature in that location. When you see the clouds gathering in the late afternoon, you have about 15 minutes to get off the lake. We learned that the hard way. We almost sank our boat and certainly threatened our lives.
The disciples learned a lesson on the Sea of Galilee as well. Several of them were fishermen as a trade. They knew the water well and knew the possibility of storms. They were surprised by the squall that dropped down from the sky causing so much water to be taken in their boat. They thought their lives were in danger and said to the resting Messiah, “we’re going to drown.”
These disciples were not novices. They knew the danger, the sea, and how to navigate storms. This squall must have been very dangerous and threatening. During the chaos, the disciples did at least one thing right. They knew where to go and to whom to go. They cried out to Jesus during their fear, confusion, and weakness.
The scripture tells us that Jesus “rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm.” They knew who to go to in their difficulties and their storms.
Interesting enough, Jesus rebuked His disciples. After His miracle He said, “Where is your faith?”
They had no answer. But “In fear and amazement they asked one another, “Who is this?” This is a telling statement. They were disciples of Jesus as He had called them. They were His disciples, which meant He was constantly teaching them and revealing Himself and the Father. They were on a journey of spiritual growth.
Jesus was taking this teachable moment to remind them of who He was. Jesus was revealing that He is God, Creator of all. Even the disciples said, “He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him.”
They knew who to go to for help. Now, they are beginning to understand who that Person really is and that they can trust and have faith in Him.
The same is true for us. We are followers of Jesus. We have been called to follow Him, commanded to learn from His teachings and scripture and launch out, by faith, to share the Good News wherever we go.
What happens to you when the storms and squalls of life come? Do you have faith? Following the lead of the disciples usually we call out to the Father for help in these times of distress.
When we cry out first what are we saying about the power of the Holy Spirit who lives in us? Are we saying He cannot guide us through these challenging storms?
The disciples were scared they would drown. Yet, they had the Son of God, The Creator of the Universe in their boat.
This challenges me to walk closer with Jesus. This causes me to desire to grow deeper with Jesus. I choose to experience the presence of Jesus in my life through the Holy Spirit so that my faith will take me through any storm or squall in life knowing that, if I am following His will, He will not fail me. Let life come because He will provide a path of protection for me as I follow Him.
Father, I desire to know You more deeply through Your Holy Spirit whom You gave me. No matter what life throws at me, no matter the difficulties in the call of following You, find me faithful because of the power of Your Spirit living and working through me. Amen.
Sunday Sermon – Sermon Series “Joy for the Journey”
Title: Overcoming Conflict for the Journey
Text: Phil. 4:1-9
Focus: This sweet fellowship of believers was strained. There were some feelings hurt, some who were angry, and the unity was threatened. It was not at a critical stage, but Paul wanted to address this issue before things got worse. He brings some great relationship principles that apply to us all.
National Day of Prayer
Thursday, May 4 is the National Day of Prayer. We are having a community prayer service from 10:00 to 11:00am here at First Baptist Church. First Baptist Church, Sun City and Grand Community Baptist Church will be joining in this service, which will include music and facilitators leading the congregation in prayer for key areas of need in our nation. Please make plans to attend and join us as we pray for our nation.
Men’s Fellowship Breakfast
Hey Guys. On Tuesday, May 2 at 8:00am be here for the best home-cooked breakfast in SCW. The kitchen crew is excited and ready. Our guest host for the day will be none other than Frank Johnson. Our speaker, John Cox, will be sharing his testimony. Come and support these guys. The cost is $4.00. Invite your friends. This Sunday is the last day to sign up.
Partners on Mission
Can you imagine being a refugee and going to a country you know nothing about or where you don’t know anyone? That is exactly what our speaker for our next Partners on Mission will be speaking about. On Wednesday, May 3 at 4:00pm, Pastor Francis from Solution Church International will be here to give us an update on his ministry and what it is like to help those who are lost and trying to find their way. This Sunday is the last day to sign up for the Potluck Dinner.
Shelf Building Workday – Part 2
All Men and Women are invited to assist the Building & Grounds Team with shelf building on Saturday, May 6 at 6:00am. Please bring rubber mallets (if you have them). Coffee and donuts will be provided.
These are shelves for the 40 ft storage unit which will soon be needed. It will be a great time of fellowship, and you will be finished early because we are starting at 6:00am to beat the sun. See you there!
Women’s Fellowship Lunch
The next Women’s Fellowship Lunch is Monday, May 8 at 12 noon. Please bring your own lunch and come enjoy great fellowship time and discussions that will encourage and enhance your life.
Single Only Sisters for ALL Women in May
On Thursday, May 11 at 2:00pm, Single Only Sisters is inviting ALL WOMEN of the church to join them for a fun afternoon. You’ll be making flower arrangements for the tables in the Christian Life Center. So that we have enough flowers and arrangement making supplies, sign-ups will continue this Sunday.
Love in Action through “Just One Thing”
During the month May, please bring canned veggies and fruit for St. Mary’s Food Bank.
Sunday Morning Transportation Needs
We have several church members that need rides to and from church on Sunday. Would you be willing to help? If yes, please call the church office!
Volunteers Needed for the Samaritans Ministry!
We need your help! We have several church members who are no longer able to attend due to age and health issues. We have a team that contacts these members on a weekly basis. This team is called Samaritans.
The Samaritans Team meets here at the church on the first and third Wednesdays of the month at 9:30am to share updates about the contacts they’ve made.
If you would be willing to step up and volunteer a bit of your time to visit, call, and send cards to these members, please call the church office.
Weekly Churchwide Prayer Meeting
We meet for churchwide prayer on Tuesdays at 10:45am. This time is spent praising God through song, praying for the needs in our church, and around the world. You need not pray aloud but come and join asking God to heal our brothers and sisters, our nation, and our world.
Have a wonderful weekend!
April 20, 2023
FBCSCW E-Blast
Devotional Thought
Parable of the Sower
Passage: Luke 8:5-15
Focal verse: Luke 8:10a “The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of God has been given to you.”
When I was 15, we moved from Silver City, NM to Albuquerque, NM. My parents rented a house with a large backyard in a nice community. My dad wanted to plant a large garden. With permission from the owners, my dad used a large rototiller and dug up the entire backyard.
Then he and I went to a cow lot in the southern part of Albuquerque and shoveled trailer load after trailer load of cow manure. Once again, we rototilled that cow manure into the ground. Why did we do all of that (other than get a few comments from neighbors)?
My father grew up on a homestead in western New Mexico growing beans and canning lots of vegetables for the winter months. He knew what good soil was and the key to his garden was fertilizing it. The cheapest and most effective way was to bring in manure.
Was it effective? Yes, I cannot tell you the number of vegetables we canned that summer/fall. They lasted for several years.
Jesus is communicating to the crowds through this parable. He is speaking about the different kinds of ground the farmer’s seeds fell on. Jesus listed four types of ground. There were some thrown on the path, others on rocky ground, still others among the thorns and last there was the good soil. Jesus then said, “Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear.”
Later in our passage, Jesus met with His disciples and they asked what the parable meant. Jesus said, “The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of God has been given to you…This is the meaning of the parable.”
The key to his statement in verse 11 was that the seed was the word of God. When we sow God’s word it is to people of all walks of life and experiences. As Jesus continues, He goes through each of the four types of ground His word falls on and the results.
There is much discussion about which of the seeds from the different types of soil brought about commitment and salvation. That discussion is for another time. What I would like you to take to heart is two-fold.
First, we must desire to be the “good soil” which “hears the word, retains it, and by persevering produce a crop.” God desires us to persevere and produce for the kingdom. In a parallel passage of Mark 4:20 it says, “produce a crop – some thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times what was sown.” Jesus’ point is clear. All believers are to be producers of spiritual fruit for the kingdom. There were no excuses or exclusion clauses.
Second, we are to be sowers of the seed which is the “word of God.” Luke 8:5 says “A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed….” The farmer was not discriminating where he scattered the seed. We should not either. We should scatter the word of God everywhere we go in word and deed, through compassionate care and unconditional love. Jesus made that very clear in the Great Commission. Again, there are no excuses or exception clauses. All disciples are to be about these tasks.
Regardless of response, we are to produce the fruit of the kingdom and scatter the word of God everywhere by every means which will honor and glorify God.
Father, remind me often that this passage speaks to me not just someone else. Help me, by the power of Your Holy Spirit living in me, to produce fruit for Your kingdom, for the eternal benefit of the lost and to do it in a way in which You are honored and glorified. Help me to trust You knowing that You will give me the words to say and actions to take. Amen.
Sermon Series – Joy for the Journey
Title: Three Certainties for our Journey
Text: Phil. 3:13-21
Focal Point: In our text Paul is talking about some certainties that do not change. He wrote to his brothers and sisters in Philippi to assure them that although they lived in a world that was constantly changing, there are some spiritual things that never change. Come Sunday and find out what some of those things are and how they relate to you.
Church Conference
This Wednesday, April 26 at 4:00pm we will gather in the sanctuary to discuss important church matters. Members, please make plans to attend this important meeting.
National Day of Prayer
Thursday, May 4 is the National Day of Prayer. We are having a community prayer service from 10:00 to 11:00am. Several churches in the area will be joining us. Please make plans to attend and join us as we pray for our nation.
Spring Into Fashion Women’s Event
For those of you that signed up, don’t forget the Women’s Ministry Spring Into Fashion Event is this Saturday, April 22 at 11:00am. Our event is at capacity.
Movie Matinee
Next Thursday, April 27 is our next Movie Matinee. Lunch will be served at 12:30pm. The cost is $5.00 per person. To reserve a lunch, please sign up by this Sunday.
This month’s movie is The Cokeville Miracle and it will begin at 1:00pm. Fresh popcorn and water will be served.
In 1986 Cokeville made national headlines when a madman and his wife entered the elementary school with guns and a bomb.
They gathered over 100 children and teachers into a small room, and made a demand: $200 million dollars for the lives of the children - but then the bomb went off...How did a bomb that should have leveled the room take only two lives that day, the madman and his wife? Each child, each adult who made it out of that room has a story to tell.
Follow the Sheriff's investigator Ron Hartley as he pieces together the evidence, including stories of prayer and divine intervention from multiple witnesses. Gather the evidence and decide for yourself. Do you see coincidence, or do you see miracles?
Men’s Fellowship Breakfast
Men, Tuesday, May 2 at 8:00am make plans to come for the best homecooked breakfast in SCW. John Cox will be sharing his testimony. The cost is $4.00. Invite your friends and make sure to sign up this Sunday.
Partners on Mission
On Wednesday, May 3 at 4:00pm, Pastor Francis from Solution Church International will be here to give us an update on his ministry. Sign-ups for the Potluck Dinner continue this Sunday.
Shelf Building Workday – Part 2
All Men and Women are invited to assist the Building & Grounds Team with shelf building on Saturday, May 6 at 6:00am. Please bring mallets (if you have them). Coffee and donuts will be provided.
Women’s Fellowship Lunch
The next Women’s Fellowship Lunch is Monday, May 8 at 12 noon. Please bring your own lunch and come enjoy great fellowship time.
Single Only Sisters for ALL Women in May
On Thursday, May 11 at 2:00pm, Single Only Sisters is inviting ALL WOMEN of the church to join them for a fun afternoon. You’ll be making flower arrangements for the tables in the Christian Life Center. So that we have enough flowers and arrangement making supplies, please sign up in the lobby starting this Sunday.
Love in Action through “Just One Thing”
During the month April, please bring peanut butter and jelly for St. Mary’s Food Bank.
Thank You
Thank you for all the love, support, and prayers we have received from all of you after the passing of my father, Jack Conner. There are not enough words to express our appreciation. – Sharon and Bob Vogt
Have a fantastic weekend!