Family of Christ Lutheran Church (March 31, 2011)
“Connecting People to Jesus Christ, His Family, and His Mission!”
Meeting Sundays: 9:00am "Family Hour" and 10:00am Worship
ADDRESS: Family of ChristMinistryCenter
929 Alpine Commerce Park NW, #400
Grand Rapids, MI49544
PHONE: (616) 784-3550 EMAIL:
AWESOME INTERACTIVE WEBSITE:
SOMETHING FOR YOUR HEART:
Romans 12:9-18
9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.Do not be conceited.17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
We had a nice turn-out last night at our Wednesday evening Lent Dinner & Devotions … including at least 4 first-time visitors (several of whom I know have been through an awful lot – and are seeking a new relationship with the Lord). One visitor shared the following which I believe is important for you to hear as well! It is a word of thanks to each of you for sharing the love of Jesus.
“Thank you for making me feel so comfortable … not only did you introduce me and make me feel important and welcome, but your family and friends all made me feel welcome. I appreciate you all.”
This reminds me that Family of Christ has never had designated “greeters” at our worship and fellowship gatherings. This is intentional because each member of God’s family should always be a loving and friendly greeter … eager to reach out and lend a hand and a listening ear to others. May the Holy Spirit cause us to each do this as we demonstrate our Christian faith by allowing Jesus to live His life through us – not just when we meet new people at church, but also 24/7 in our neighborhoods, our workplaces, our schools, and our homes! Thank you for welcoming others into our spiritual family … as God always intends us to do - - enabling His Kingdom to expand!(By the way, this person is eager to come back and grow in God’s grace and in faith along with us!)
BONUS: Here a few good life lessons I came across to challenge us and to help us think more about the way we treat people … because there is always room for improvement!
Unselfishly Serving Others
One night, at 11:30 p.m., an older African American woman was standing on the side of an Alabama highway trying to endure a lashing rainstorm. Her car had broken down and she desperately needed a ride. Soaking wet, she decided to flag down the next car. A young white man stopped to help her, generally unheard of in those conflict-filled 60s. The man took her to safety, helped her get assistance and put her into a taxicab.
She seemed to be in a big hurry, but wrote down his address and thanked him. Seven days went by and a knock came on the man's door. To his surprise, a giant console color TV was delivered to his home. A special note was attached. It read:
“Thank you so much for assisting me on the highway the other night. The rain drenched not only my clothes, but also my spirits. Then you came along. Because of you, I was able to make it to my dying husband's bedside just before he passed away... God bless you for helping me and unselfishly serving others.” Sincerely, Mrs. Nat King Cole
All People Matter
During my second month of college, our professor gave us a pop quiz. I was a conscientious student and had breezed through the questions until I read the last one:'What is the first name of the woman who cleans the school?'
Surely this was some kind of joke. I had seen the cleaning woman several times. She was tall, dark-haired and in her 50's, but how would I know her name? I handed in my paper, leaving the last question blank. Just before class ended, one student asked if the last question would count toward our quiz grade.
'Absolutely,' said the professor. 'In your careers you will meet many people. All are significant. They deserve your attention and care, even if all you do is smile and say 'hello.'I've never forgotten that lesson. I also learned her name was Dorothy.
Going the Extra Mile to Help
In ancient times, a King had a boulder placed on a roadway. Then he hid himself and watched to see if anyone would remove the huge rock. Some of the king's wealthiest merchants and courtiers came by and simply walked around it. Many loudly blamed the King for not keeping the roads clear, but none did anything about getting the stone out of the way.
Then a peasant came along carrying a load of vegetables. Upon approaching the boulder, he knew someone needed to clear the obstacle for the good of all. So, the peasant laid down his burden and tried to move the stone to the side of the road. After much pushing and straining, he felt like giving up – but finally succeeded. After the peasant picked up his load of vegetables, he noticed a small purse lying in the road where the boulder had been. The purse contained several large gold coins and a note from the King indicating that the gold was for the person who served the community by removing the boulder from the roadway. The peasant was reminded of the truth that many of us never understand . . . Obstacles present opportunities to serve and improve our condition!
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
+ LUTHERAN WOMEN’S MISSIONARY LEAGUE (LWML)
LWML will host their 34th Biennial Convention themed, “Being with Jesus, Living on the Edge” in Peoria, IL this summer June 23-26 and would like to fill up the car with more female, Jesus followers. For details go to convention and contact Barb Bowditch at 633-0242. Registration begins March 1st.
Also, a representative from the LWML will come to Familyof Christ to speak to the women about LWML on Sun, April 10. If you have an interest, this will be a great opportunity to learn more!
Also, pick up an LWML Quarterly magazine on the table in the back.
+ YOUNG ADULTS BIBLE STUDY
Thursday evenings from 7:00 – 9:00 pm, an exciting Young Adults Bible Study called ‘Christianity, Cults & Religions’ is being held at Ross and Kelly Boomershine’s home. For information call (616) 204-9084.
+ PIZZA DINNER ON WEDNESDAY
Next Wednesday, April 6, pizza will be served for dinner before our Lent Devotions and New Beginnings Class.
+ NEXT WEDNESDAY EVENING. . . REDEMPTION !
Next Wednesday, April 6, come out and hear Pastor Mark’s video-taped message on “Redemption” as he traces his steps back over the story of his truck being “redeemed” from the GR City Impound lot … taking him to the site where it was towed, the police station & ending at the cross!
+ LWML GRAND RAPIDS ZONE SPRING RALLY
Sunday, April 17, 4-6:30pm at St JamesLutheranChurch. The speakers will be Norma Carey on her mission trip to Guatemala andSteve Zwart from Lutheran Child & Family Services. A light supper will be served, cost is $5.00 at the door. The address is 2040 Oakwood Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505.
+ SUNDAY OFFERINGS FROM MARCH 27, 2011
In response to God’s goodness to us, our offerings from last Sunday:
The general offering was:$ 2,638.00 (needed: $2115)
The special mission offering was:$ 36.41
The building fund offering was:$ 2,121.00
2011 Year-to-date general offerings:$ 21,441.04 (needed: 25,380.00)
+ CHURCH BUILDING UPDATE & PLEDGES
There is much work that is currently being done on the property, so if you’re in the area, drive by and take a look! The gas has been installed and the electric should be in shortly. And the brick siding is coming along nicely.Please keep praying for this projectand remember that if you pledged (and have not started to send in your pledges) now is the time to begin.
+ APRIL MISSIONS OFFERING
Our special mission offering this month is going to the LCMSWorld Relief & Human Care. LCMS sends support and help around the world where help is needed. Our church body is currently sending much financial assistance to our sister churches in Japan to help with the disaster relief work being done in the name of Jesus.
+ SUNDAYS IN LENT!
Jonah ... for Lent? Sounds fishy, but it's a natural fit. When the Jews asked Jesus for a sign, he said, "I will give you only the sign of Jonah." After three days in the belly of the earth, Jesus rose with news of God's prodigal grace. This series of special services for Lent explores the meaning of "The Sign Jonah" as we follow Jonah on his journey ... and Jesus on his way to the cross.
April 3 - Praying in the belly of the great fish (Jonah 2:1-10)
April 10 - The God of the second chance (Jonah 3:1-4)
April 17 - About Face (Jonah 3:5-10)
+ SUNDAY BIBLE CLASS – This Sunday’s Topic: CREATION vs. EVOLUTION
God’s Word teaches us that we Christians certainly live in the world, but we are not of world (John 15:19, 17:15-16, 2 Corinthians 10:3). Living in this world is a great challenge because we are constantly bombarded with the “wisdom of this age” which is at odds with the truth of God’s Word. “Contemporary Issues” is the name of our current Sunday morning Bible class at 9:00 am. Come and become equipped as we learn about “hot topics” in our world today. This will help you to better understand what the world’s perspective is … and more importantly, what God’s Word teaches on these current issues and events. You will become more “prepared to give an answer for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15-16).
+ WELCOME VICAR DAVID
Vicar David Strussenberg from St. Matthew will be leading our worship and Bible class this Sunday while Pastor Mark is away on Spring Break with his two senior daughters, Gabi and Joanna, and the family.
+ THRIVENT CHOICE
Thrivent has a program called Thrivent Choice. This programgives the Thrivent members an opportunity to pick where their choice dollars go. This does not effect your savings. Some of ourmembers have given Family of Christtheir choice dollars. Family ofChrist received $567.00 to date. If you are a Thrivent member pleaseconsider giving Family of Christ your choice dollars. Call Audrey at 269-903-5183 for more info.
NEXT WEEK AT A GLANCE (APRIL 3 – APRIL 9)
…. here at Family of Christ
Sunday9:00 amBible Study
10:00 amWorship
WedDEVOTIONS & NEW BEGINNINGS
5:45 pmDinner
6:30 pmDevotional “At the Crux”
7-8 pmNew Beginnings Course
Thur1:00 pmKnit for Kids
4-6 pmAngel Food Orders
7:00 pmYoung Adults Bible Study
Fri4-6 pmAngel Food Orders
UPCOMING DATES:
April 1011:30 amCindy from LWML to meet
with Women of Congregation
April 13LENT DEVOTIONS and NEW BEGINNINGS 5:45 pm Dinner
6:30 pmLent Devotional “At the Crux”
7-8:00 pmNew Beginnings Class
April 174-6:30 pmLWML Spring Rally
+ SIGN A WALL!!
We would like everyone at Family of Christ to come to the new church site and write their favorite Bible Verse(s) on the studs of our new building before the drywall goes up. Stay tuned for when we will be doing this. In the meantime, start choosing your favorite verse(s)!
+ WEDNESDAYS IN LENT: “AT THE CRUX” Devotions!
On Wednesday evenings during the season of Lent, we will be blessed to hear a series of devotional messages given by 6 different pastors serving here in Grand Rapids. They will be speaking about various Gospel aspects of what Jesus accomplished “At the Crux” (cross). These Bible concepts include: Redemption, Justification, Atonement, Reconciliation, Propitiation, and a New Covenant. Can you define any of these amazing Biblical words that help unlock God’s good news to you? If not, come along as we walk to the crux.Also, on Wednesday evenings, we are having an awesome new course at Family of Christ called “New Beginnings” which providesan opportunity to explore the meaning of life as it introduces people toJesus and His Word!
SEE THE DISPLAY BOARD AND BROCHURE AT CHURCH
For those not yet members at Family of Christ, this walk through the Christian Faith culminates in an invitation to join our growing church family(andfor those not yet baptized, this is the class at Family of Christ that prepares one forbaptism!) Childcare is provided.
1)5:45 – 6:25 pm – Soup Supper for the whole family (come enjoy a great meal!)
2)6:30 – 6:55 pm – “AT THE CRUX” Devotions (come and learn what Jesus did for you on the cross)
3)7:00 – 8:00 pm – “NEW BEGINNINGS” Course (meet Jesus thru this Intro to the Christian faith)
+ FAMILY OF CHRIST WEBSITE!!!
Just go to –
There are lots of new pictures to go along with our user friendly site. You can also find our “MIDWEEK ENCOURAGEMENT” with all announcements on website at under “Media”. Hard copies of our weekly newsletter are on “Get Connected” table.
+ FAMILY OF CHRIST WEBSITE!!!
Just go to –
There are lots of new pictures to go along with our user friendly site.If you have any pictures that you want to put up on the website get in touch with the church office. We do understand that sometimes people do not want their faces in a public place for the world to see. Apart from Elders, Office Staff, and Pastors we will not be using names, but if you do have a problem with us using pictures of you for the website, please contact us.NOTE: You can also find MIDWEEK ENCOURAGEMENT with all announcements on website at under “Media”. Hard copies are on the
“Get Connected” table.
+ FOC PRAYER CIRCLE
“Pray … and let God worry!” - Martin Luther
Family of Christ’s Prayer Circle is always accepting prayer requests. You can write your prayers on the pink paper cards and insert them into the round Prayer Request Box… Or email them to Pastor Mark at if you like. Your prayer requests will be kept confidential and will be offered to our loving God who knows our needs even before we ask. “For where 2 or 3 come together in my name, there I am with them.” Matthew 18:20.
+ NEW WORSHIP & FAMILY HOUR TIMES!
The leadership of our congregation just decided unanimously to move to TWO Sunday morning worship services when the new building is completed. An early, more traditional worship service (using new hymnals) will be held at 8:00 am. Our contemporary worship service that is now at 10:00 am will held at 10:30 am. These two meaningful worship services will be one hour in length (communion service will run a little longer). Our new expanded “Family Hour” for all ages will be held from 9:30-10:15 am(this will be a time for excellent spiritual growth for 45 minutes between the two services).The spiritual leaders of our church have set the goal of making the new “Family Hour” a powerful time in God’s Word and are praying that everyone who comes on Sunday morning will make Family Hour an integral part of their Sunday morning experience! Refreshments will be served between the two worship services. Stay Tuned to the actual start date! More details to follow! More details to follow!
PRAYERS THIS WEEK:
Please lift up the following people in your prayers!
HEALING & HEALTH
*Evan Karel, who has been feeling very weak. Ask the Lord to renew Evan’s strength and to heal him!
*Christine Harmelink, who had surgery to remove a melanoma on her face. She has a lot of bruising and
swelling at this time.
*Marlene Brethauer (Terri Karel’s mother) who will be having a chemical induced stress test Thursday and may
need bypass surgery.
*Mark Todd who is recovering from brain surgery (Mark and his wife Carrie and two kids live in Pastor Mark’s neighborhood). Doctors removed a tumor … pray for a total recovery that Mark will be able to return to work.
*Oran Brethauer (Terri Karel’s father) who will be having an MRI Friday and then may be having a bone taken out of his leg and put in his back. They are hoping this will keep him from falling.
*Lydia Cochrill, daughter of Aaron and Melissa, who has been suffering from brief, but recurring seizures. Pray for the doctors to accurately determine the cause and for the Lord's gracious hand to heal Lydia.
*Pray for all those who are battling cancer and are in need of God’s healing touch – especially for Len Ducat, Julliette Tallon, and Charlie Miller (husband and father of 3 grown kids - and friend of Lynn Slott)
THANKSGIVING
*Thank God for recently providing a new job for Bill Nienhuis.
*Thank Jesus for providing some part-time ministry work to Pastor Glenn at our sister congregation “New Hope Lutheran Church” in Hudsonville – as well as a job at Subway while he awaits a call.
*Thank the Lord of the Harvest for sending many new visitors into our midst whom we can love and befriend. *Ask the Lord to continue blessing the ongoing work at our new church property. Pray for the workers … and pray for God’s abundant provisions so that Family of Christ can proclaim the Good News of Jesus far & wide.