January 2020 Newseltter

Happy New Year!!

Click on the link below to view the latest newsletter.

January 2020 Newsletter

Have a great day!
~ Carmen

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (12/22/19)

Sunday December 22 at 6:15 PM

Hayride and caroling. We will have a flatbed trailer. Come and join us, dress warm!

Tuesday December 24th

Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion at 6 PM.

Scripture for Sunday
Micah 4:6-5:5a

6 In that day, declares the LORD, I will assemble the lame and gather those who have been driven away and those whom I have afflicted; 7 and the lame I will make the remnant, and those who were cast off, a strong nation; and the LORD will reign over them in Mount Zion from this time forth and forevermore. 8 And you, O tower of the flock, hill of the daughter of Zion, to you shall it come, the former dominion shall come, kingship for the daughter of Jerusalem. 

9 Now why do you cry aloud? Is there no king in you? Has your counselor perished, that pain seized you like a woman in labor? 10 Writhe and groan, O daughter of Zion, like a woman in labor, for now you shall go out from the city and dwell in the open country; you shall go to Babylon. There you shall be rescued; there the LORD will redeem you from the hand of your enemies. 

11 Now many nations are assembled against you, saying, “Let her be defiled, and let our eyes gaze upon Zion.” 12 But they do not know the thoughts of the LORD; they do not understand his plan, that he has gathered them as sheaves to the threshing floor. 13 Arise and thresh, O daughter of Zion, for I will make your horn iron, and I will make your hoofs bronze; you shall beat in pieces many peoples; and shall devote their gain to the LORD, their wealth to the Lord of the whole earth.

1  Now muster your troops, O daughter of troops; siege is laid against us; with a rod they strike the judge of Israel on the cheek. 2  But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days. 3 Therefore he shall give them up until the time when she who is in labor has given birth; then the rest of his brothers shall return to the people of Israel. 4 And he shall stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. And they shall dwell secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth. 5 And he shall be their peace. 

Questions for Reflection
1.    What did the prophet predict would happen to Israel? (4:9-10)
2.    Who would go against God’s people? (4:11-13)
3.    What happened to the ruler of Israel? (5:1)
4.    What were the ruler’s origins? (5:2)
5.    What is your view of the Christian’s role in bringing about peace in society?
6.    How can Christians have hope in persecution?
7.    How would you describe the strength and power of the Lord?

Scripture for Sunday (12/15/19)

Sunday December 15, 2019 - We will have our annual Children’s Christmas play during the worship hour.  We will have a pot luck breakfast during the Sunday School hour.

In preparation for Christmas read the story from the Gospel of Luke chapter 2.

Scripture 

Luke 2:1-21 (ESV) 

1 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 And all went to be registered, each to his own town. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. 6 And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth.7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. 

8 And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. 10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 

14 “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” 15 When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. 17 And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. 18 And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. 

21 And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

Announcements

Announcements

Tonight Wednesday December 11, 2019

• Bible Study 5:30 PM on the Gospel of John, Chapters 9&10 @ Grace Place
• Christmas Carol Hymn Sing @ 6:30 PM in the Sanctuary

Sunday December 15, 2019

• We will have our annual Children’s Christmas play and we will have a pot luck breakfast during the Sunday School hour.

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (12/8/19)

• Saturday, December 7, 2019 - Men’s Breakfast at 8 AM; Coffee will be on at 6:30.
• Sunday December 8, 2019 - Community Christmas Cantata 6:00 PM in the First United Methodist Church sanctuary. 
• Sunday December 15, 2019 - We will have our annual children’s Christmas play during the worship hour.  We will have a pot luck breakfast during the Sunday School hour.

Scripture
Micah 3:5-11 (ESV) 

5 Thus says the LORD concerning the prophets who lead my people astray, who cry “Peace” when they have something to eat, but declare war against him who puts nothing into their mouths. 6 Therefore it shall be night to you, without vision, and darkness to you, without divination. The sun shall go down on the prophets, and the day shall be black over them; 7 the seers shall be disgraced, and the diviners put to shame; they shall all cover their lips, for there is no answer from God. 8 But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the LORD, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression and to Israel his sin. 9 Hear this, you heads of the house of Jacob and rulers of the house of Israel, who detest justice and make crooked all that is straight, 10 who build Zion with blood and Jerusalem with iniquity. 11 Its heads give judgment for a bribe; its priests teach for a price; its prophets practice divination for money; yet they lean on the LORD and say, “Is not the LORD in the midst of us? No disaster shall come upon us.” 12 Therefore because of you Zion shall be plowed as a field; Jerusalem shall become a heap of ruins, and the mountain of the house a wooded height.

Questions for Reflection
1.    Who, in your view, is one of the greatest leaders of our time?
2.    What was the judgment on the false prophets? (3:5-7)
3.    What was the judgment on Jerusalem? (3:9-12)
4.    What examples of injustice and exploitation do you see around you?
5.    How can Christians become involved in bringing justice to their community?
6.    What is your view of the Christian’s role in bringing about peace in society?
7.    How can Christians have hope in persecution?
8.    How would you describe the strength and power of the Lord?

Scripture for Sunday (12/1/19)

Scripture
Micah 1:1-7 (ESV)

1 The word of the LORD that came to Micah of Moresheth in the days of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah, which he saw concerning Samaria and Jerusalem. 2 Hear, you peoples, all of you; pay attention, O earth, and all that is in it, and let the Lord GOD be a witness against you, the Lord from his holy temple. 3 For behold, the LORD is coming out of his place, and will come down and tread upon the high places of the earth. 4 And the mountains will melt under him, and the valleys will split open, like wax before the fire, like waters poured down a steep place. 5 All this is for the transgression of Jacob and for the sins of the house of Israel. What is the transgression of Jacob? Is it not Samaria? And what is the high place of Judah? Is it not Jerusalem? 6 Therefore I will make Samaria a heap in the open country, a place for planting vineyards, and I will pour down her stones into the valley and uncover her foundations. 7 All her carved images shall be beaten to pieces, all her wages shall be burned with fire, and all her idols I will lay waste, for from the fee of a prostitute she gathered them, and to the fee of a prostitute they shall return.

December 2019 Newsletter

The December newsletter is ready a little early due to the traveling this week. I hope everyone has a very Happy Thanksgiving!!

Click on the link below to view the newsletter.

December 2019 Newsletter

Have a great day!
~ Carmen

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (11/24/19)

Following Worship Sunday Chili Lunch and Hanging of the Green. We will eat then decorate the church. Bring a desert to share if you would like to.

Scripture
2 Samuel 9:1-13 (ESV)

1 And David said, “Is there still anyone left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?” 2 Now there was a servant of the house of Saul whose name was Ziba, and they called him to David. And the king said to him, “Are you Ziba?” And he said, “I am your servant.” 3 And the king said, “Is there not still someone of the house of Saul, that I may show the kindness of God to him?” Ziba said to the king, “There is still a son of Jonathan; he is crippled in his feet.” 4 The king said to him, “Where is he?” And Ziba said to the king, “He is in the house of Machir the son of Ammiel, at Lo-debar.” 5 Then King David sent and brought him from the house of Machir the son of Ammiel, at Lo-debar. 6 And Mephibosheth the son of Jonathan, son of Saul, came to David and fell on his face and paid homage. And David said, “Mephibosheth!” And he answered, “Behold, I am your servant.” 7 And David said to him, “Do not fear, for I will show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan, and I will restore to you all the land of Saul your father, and you shall eat at my table always.” 8 And he paid homage and said, “What is your servant, that you should show regard for a dead dog such as I?”

9 Then the king called Ziba, Saul’s servant, and said to him, “All that belonged to Saul and to all his house I have given to your master’s grandson. 10 And you and your sons and your servants shall till the land for him and shall bring in the produce, that your master’s grandson may have bread to eat. But Mephibosheth your master’s grandson shall always eat at my table.” Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants. 11 Then Ziba said to the king, “According to all that my lord the king commands his servant, so will your servant do.” So Mephibosheth ate at David’s table, like one of the king’s sons. 12 And Mephibosheth had a young son, whose name was Mica. And all who lived in Ziba’s house became Mephibosheth’s servants. 13 So Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem, for he ate always at the king’s table. Now he was lame in both his feet.

Questions for Reflection
1.    If you had it within your power, whom would you elevate from "rags to riches" and why?
2.    What commitment did David remember when he was established in the kingship of Israel? (9:1)
3.    Where did David find Jonathan’s son living? (9:4-5)
4.    What attitude did Mephibosheth assume toward David when they met? (9:6)
5.    What promises did David make to Mephibosheth? (9:7)
6.    How did Mephibosheth expect to be treated by David? (9:8)
7.    What kind of treatment did Mephibosheth receive in David’s house? (9:11)
8.    How would another generation of Saul’s family continue in Israel? (9:12)
9.    Why did Mephibosheth live in Jerusalem from this time onward although his family’s lands were elsewhere? (9:13)
10. Why was it especially important to David to find the surviving members of Saul’s family?
11. Why did Mephibosheth have reason to be afraid of David?
12. What special provision did David make because of Mephibosheth’s disability?
13. Why is it important to carry through on promises made, even if the person to whom you made them is dead and gone?
14. Why is it a greater honor to ask someone to eat with you than simply to give him or her a meal?

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (11/10/19)

• Sunday, November 10, 2019 - Thanksgiving Lunch! The church is providing Turkey please bring a side dish to share.
• Fall Food Drive has begun. Please bring food for our Food Bank each Sunday in November.
• Sunday, November 10, 2019 Roosevelt Service 6 PM  

Scripture
Luke 20:27-38 (ESV) 

There came to him some Sadducees, those who deny that there is a resurrection, [28] and they asked him a question, saying, "Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man's brother dies, having a wife but no children, the man must take the widow and raise up offspring for his brother. [29] Now there were seven brothers. The first took a wife, and died without children. [30] And the second [31] and the third took her, and likewise all seven left no children and died. [32] Afterward the woman also died. [33] In the resurrection, therefore, whose wife will the woman be? For the seven had her as wife."  [34] And Jesus said to them, "The sons of this age marry and are given in marriage, [35] but those who are b considered worthy to attain to that age and to the resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage, [36] for they cannot die anymore, because they are f equal to angels and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection. [37] But that the dead are raised, even Moses showed, in the passage about the bush, where he calls the Lord the God of Abraham and the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob. [38] Now he is not God of the dead, but of the living, for all live to him."  

Questions for Reflection
1.    What do you imagine happens to us after death?
2.    Why do you think there is so much confusion and controversy about the afterlife in our world today?
3.    How have your beliefs in the afterlife changed over the years?
4.    How did Luke describe the Sadducees? (20:27)
5.    Why did the Sadducees approach Jesus? (20:27)
6.    What was the main point of the lengthy story the Sadducees told Jesus? (20:28-33)
7.    How did Jesus respond to the Sadducees’ question? (20:34-35)
8.    What is the "age" to which Jesus referred? (20:35)
9.    Who is "considered worthy"? (20:35)
10. In the age to come, what did Jesus promise to those who take part in the resurrection of the dead? (20:36)
11. How did Jesus describe God? (20:37-38)
12. Why did Jesus describe God as "the God of the living"? (20:38)
13. Why should we believe in the resurrection of the dead?
14. What makes belief in the resurrection an important Christian belief?
15. How should the promise of eternal life affect your everyday actions?

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (11/3/19)

• Men’s Breakfast Saturday morning 8 AM, coffee will be on at 6:30 AM come and join us.
• Sunday November 3, 2019 We will have a brief Congregational meeting following worship to elect four people to serve on the nominating committee with the outgoing elders.
• These are the details of the services for George Stewart:  
• Memorial Service is at Christ of the Hills Presbyterian Church on Thursday November 7th at 1:00 PM. The Address is 635 Highway 46 East Ste. 203-204, Boerne, TX 78006. Pastor Pete Johnson will officiate.  Internment is on Saturday, November 9th at Mo Ranch outside of Hunt, Texas. At 1:00 we will meet up on Serenity Hill near the Chapel on the Hill for the service, Reverends Jim & Laurie Barker officiating. If weather is severe then we will have a service at the Mo-Ranch Chapel near Guest Lodge. If anyone wants to join us for lunch in the dining hall at 11:30 they will need to have a reservation (we need a head count). Let Jim know and he will call in our reservations. 325-215-9017.  All memorial gifts can be made to Christ of the Hills Presbyterian Church. 

Scripture for Sunday
Matthew 5:1-12 (ESV) 
1 Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him.
2 And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
   3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
   4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
   5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
   6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
   7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
   8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
   9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
   10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
   11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.
   12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Questions for Reflection
1.    What are some ways people typically try to find happiness or fulfillment in life?
2.    What person (living or dead) do you respect most? Why?
3.    Who was Jesus addressing? (5:1-2)
4.    According to Jesus, what is the reward for those who are poor in spirit? (5:3)
5.    Why are those who mourn blessed? (5:4)
6.    What does God promise to those who are merciful? (5:7)
7.    According to this passage, who will see God? (5:8)
8.    What unexpected command is given to Christians who are insulted, hassled, and lied about? (5:11-12)
9.    What people in history have endured nasty persecution? (5:12)
10. How does it pay in the present to walk with God?
11. What do you think it means to be poor in spirit?
12. What are some examples of showing mercy?
13. How does society’s list of admirable virtues compare and contrast with these kingdom virtues?
14. Which of these promises means the most to you today? Why?

November 2019 Newsletter

Click on the link below to view the latest newsletter.

November 2019 Newsletter

Have a great day!
~ Carmen

Scripture for Sunday (10/27/19)

These are the details of the services for George Stewart:
  Contacts: Richard Stewart (210) 275-6563, Katy Calverley (210) 316-4561

  Memorial Service is at Christ of the Hills Presbyterian Church on Thursday, November 7th at 1:00 PM. The address is 635 Highway 46 East Ste. 203-204, Boerne, TX 78006.  Pastor Pete Johnson will officiate.

  Internment is on Saturday, November 9th at Mo Ranch outside of Hunt, Texas. At 1:00 we will meet on Serenity Hill near the Chapel on the Hill for the service.  Reverends Jim & Laurie Barker will be officiating. If weather is severe, we will have a service at the Mo-Ranch Chapel near the Guest Lodge. If anyone wants to join us for lunch in the dining hall, you will need to have a reservation (we need a head count). If you would like to make a memorial gift, please make them to Christ of the Hills Church.

Scripture for Sunday
John 8:31-38 (ESV) 

31 So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, 32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 33 They answered him, “We are offspring of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone. How is it that you say, ‘You will become free’?” 34 Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. 35 The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. 37 I know that you are offspring of Abraham; yet you seek to kill me because my word finds no place in you. 38 I speak of what I have seen with my Father, and you do what you have heard from your father.”

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (10/20/19)

Scripture
Daniel 5:1-31 (ESV)

1 King Belshazzar made a great feast for a thousand of his lords and drank wine in front of the thousand. 2 Belshazzar, when he tasted the wine, commanded that the vessels of gold and of silver that Nebuchadnezzar his father had taken out of the temple in Jerusalem be brought, that the king and his lords, his wives, and his concubines might drink from them. 3 Then they brought in the golden vessels that had been taken out of the temple, the house of God in Jerusalem, and the king and his lords, his wives, and his concubines drank from them. 4 They drank wine and praised the gods of gold and silver, bronze, iron, wood, and stone. 

5 Immediately the fingers of a human hand appeared and wrote on the plaster of the wall of the king’s palace, opposite the lampstand. And the king saw the hand as it wrote. 6 Then the king’s color changed, and his thoughts alarmed him; his limbs gave way, and his knees knocked together. 7 The king called loudly to bring in the enchanters, the Chaldeans, and the astrologers. The king declared to the wise men of Babylon, “Whoever reads this writing, and shows me its interpretation, shall be clothed with purple and have a chain of gold around his neck and shall be the third ruler in the kingdom.” 8 Then all the king’s wise men came in, but they could not read the writing or make known to the king the interpretation. 9 Then King Belshazzar was greatly alarmed, and his color changed, and his lords were perplexed. 

10 The queen, because of the words of the king and his lords, came into the banqueting hall, and the queen declared, “O king, live forever! Let not your thoughts alarm you or your color change. 11 There is a man in your kingdom in whom is the spirit of the holy gods. In the days of your father, light and understanding and wisdom like the wisdom of the gods were found in him, and King Nebuchadnezzar, your father—your father the king—made him chief of the magicians, enchanters, Chaldeans, and astrologers, 12 because an excellent spirit, knowledge, and understanding to interpret dreams, explain riddles, and solve problems were found in this Daniel, whom the king named Belteshazzar. Now let Daniel be called, and he will show the interpretation.” 

13 Then Daniel was brought in before the king. The king answered and said to Daniel, “You are that Daniel, one of the exiles of Judah, whom the king my father brought from Judah. 14 I have heard of you that the spirit of the gods is in you, and that light and understanding and excellent wisdom are found in you. 15 Now the wise men, the enchanters, have been brought in before me to read this writing and make known to me its interpretation, but they could not show the interpretation of the matter. 16 But I have heard that you can give interpretations and solve problems. Now if you can read the writing and make known to me its interpretation, you shall be clothed with purple and have a chain of gold around your neck and shall be the third ruler in the kingdom.” 

17 Then Daniel answered and said before the king, “Let your gifts be for yourself, and give your rewards to another. Nevertheless, I will read the writing to the king and make known to him the interpretation. 18 O king, the Most High God gave Nebuchadnezzar your father kingship and greatness and glory and majesty. 19 And because of the greatness that he gave him, all peoples, nations, and languages trembled and feared before him. Whom he would, he killed, and whom he would, he kept alive; whom he would, he raised up, and whom he would, he humbled. 20 But when his heart was lifted up and his spirit was hardened so that he dealt proudly, he was brought down from his kingly throne, and his glory was taken from him. 21 He was driven from among the children of mankind, and his mind was made like that of a beast, and his dwelling was with the wild donkeys. He was fed grass like an ox, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, until he knew that the Most High God rules the kingdom of mankind and sets over it whom he will. 22 And you his son, Belshazzar, have not humbled your heart, though you knew all this, 23 but you have lifted up yourself against the Lord of heaven. And the vessels of his house have been brought in before you, and you and your lords, your wives, and your concubines have drunk wine from them. And you have praised the gods of silver and gold, of bronze, iron, wood, and stone, which do not see or hear or know, but the God in whose hand is your breath, and whose are all your ways, you have not honored. 

24 “Then from his presence the hand was sent, and this writing was inscribed. 25 And this is the writing that was inscribed: MENE, MENE, TEKEL, and PARSIN. 26 This is the interpretation of the matter: MENE, God has numbered the days of your kingdom and brought it to an end; 27 TEKEL, you have been weighed in the balances and found wanting; 28 PERES, your kingdom is divided and given to the Medes and Persians.” 

29 Then Belshazzar gave the command, and Daniel was clothed with purple, a chain of gold was put around his neck, and a proclamation was made about him, that he should be the third ruler in the kingdom. 30 That very night Belshazzar the Chaldean king was killed. 31 And Darius the Mede received the kingdom, being about sixty-two years old.

Questions for Reflection
1.    What would constitute a perfect party for you?
2.    What kinds of puzzles or riddles do you like to solve?
3.    While drinking wine, what orders did Belshazzar give? (5:2-3)
4.    To whom did the king and his court give praise? (5:4)
5.    What happened while the people were feasting? (5:5)
6.    How did the king react to the handwriting on the wall? (5:6-7)
7.    What happened when the wise men came to the king? (5:8-9)
8.    What was the queen’s counsel to Belshazzar? (5:10-12)
9.    When Daniel was brought before the king, what did Belshazzar say to him? (5:13-16)
10. How did Daniel respond to the king’s words? (5:17)
11. *In his reply to the king, what did Daniel say about God and His dealings with Nebuchadnezzar? (5:18-21)
12. How did Daniel confront Belshazzar’s pride? (5:22-24)
13. What did Daniel say about the judgment of God? (5:25-28)
14. How did the king reward Daniel for his words? (5:29)
15. What makes people proud nowadays?
16. What can we do to keep pride from clouding our perspective and respect for God?
17. If you were struggling with a difficult personal problem, whose counsel would you seek? Why?
18. When someone asks for your opinion or advice, how honest are you in sharing what you think?

Scripture for Sunday (10/13/19)

Pastor Jeremiah Kibobi will be our guest preacher tomorrow. He will also be speaking during the Sunday school hour in Grace Place. The Lord is doing a lot through his ministry. He is the country director in Kenya for Watch and Pray. He also has a ministry called Vision of Glory. 

Lunch will follow worship, brisket will be provided by the church. Please bring a dish to share.

They are hoping to be able to get sponsors to support more children in their visions children education support. The aim is to be supporting 600 children every day. By supporting these less fortunate children we are building the church of Christ and raising the leaders of tomorrow.

Scripture
2 Kings 7:1-9 (ESV) 

1 But Elisha said, “Hear the word of the LORD: thus says the LORD, Tomorrow about this time a seah of fine flour shall be sold for a shekel, and two seahs of barley for a shekel, at the gate of Samaria.” 2 Then the captain on whose hand the king leaned said to the man of God, “If the LORD himself should make windows in heaven, could this thing be?” But he said, “You shall see it with your own eyes, but you shall not eat of it.” 

3 Now there were four men who were lepers at the entrance to the gate. And they said to one another, “Why are we sitting here until we die? 4 If we say, ‘Let us enter the city,’ the famine is in the city, and we shall die there. And if we sit here, we die also. So now come, let us go over to the camp of the Syrians. If they spare our lives we shall live, and if they kill us we shall but die.” 5 So they arose at twilight to go to the camp of the Syrians. But when they came to the edge of the camp of the Syrians, behold, there was no one there. 6 For the Lord had made the army of the Syrians hear the sound of chariots and of horses, the sound of a great army, so that they said to one another, “Behold, the king of Israel has hired against us the kings of the Hittites and the kings of Egypt to come against us.” 7 So they fled away in the twilight and abandoned their tents, their horses, and their donkeys, leaving the camp as it was, and fled for their lives. 8 And when these lepers came to the edge of the camp, they went into a tent and ate and drank, and they carried off silver and gold and clothing and went and hid them. Then they came back and entered another tent and carried off things from it and went and hid them. 

9 Then they said to one another, “We are not doing right. This day is a day of good news. If we are silent and wait until the morning light, punishment will overtake us. Now therefore come; let us go and tell the king’s household.”

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (10/6/19)

Saturday (10/5/19) is Men’s Breakfast.  Coffee will be on at 6:30, breakfast at 8 AM. Come join us.

Scripture
2 Timothy 1:2-14 (ESV) 

2 To Timothy, my beloved child: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 3 I thank God whom I serve, as did my ancestors, with a clear conscience, as I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. 4 As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy. 5 I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. 6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, 7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. 

8 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, 9 who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, 10 and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, 11 for which I was appointed a preacher and apostle and teacher, 12 which is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me. 13 Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. 14 By the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, guard the good deposit entrusted to you.

Questions for Reflection
1.    What is characteristic of the people you enjoy being around?
2.    In what ways have your parents or grandparents significantly shaped your life?
3.    Why did Paul long to see Timothy? (1:4)
4.    Who were Lois and Eunice, and what did Paul say about them? (1:5)
5.    What was Timothy reminded to do? (1:6)
6.    What kind of spirit does God give to His people? (1:7)
7.    In what way did Timothy need courage? (1:8)
8.    Why has God called us to a holy life? (1:9)
9.    What did Paul tell Timothy to do with his training? (1:13)
10. For whom do you pray on a regular basis?
11. What family member or friend has had the biggest role in your spiritual growth and development?
12. What gift has God given you?

October 2019 Newsletter

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October 2019 Newsletter

Have a great day!
~Carmen

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (9/29/19)

• A graveside service will be held for Joyce Brown 10 AM Saturday morning at the Noxville cemetery.
• This Sunday, September 29th following worship, we will have a Mexican themed covered dish lunch to celebrate the upcoming marriage of William Whitworth to Katie Wesneski. Please bring a dish to share.

Scripture
ESV Matthew 6:25-34

25 "Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? 28 And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, 29 yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31 Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. 34 "Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.

Questions for Reflection
1.    What are your top three worries?
2.    What three worries did Jesus discourage among His followers? Why? (6:25)
3.    Why is food a trivial matter? (6:26)
4.    According to Jesus, how do clothes stack up as a subject of great concern? (6:26)
5.    What creatures did Jesus use to illustrate God’s reliability as a provider? Why? (6:26)
6.    Why are God’s creatures consistently "fed and clothed"? (6:26)
7.    What benefits does worry bring? (6:27)
8.    What priorities should we have in life? (6:33)
9.    Why is it silly to fret over the future? (6:34)
10. If God is really in control of the universe, why do we worry so much about so many things?
11. How do you think worry is affecting you emotionally, physically, and spiritually?
12. What is the difference between planning for the future and worrying about the future?
13. What worries do you struggle to keep under control?
14. What can help you entrust your worries to God?

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (9/22/19)

• Wednesday, September 25th we will begin a new Bible study on the Gospel of John, 5:30 PM in Grace Place.
• Coming Soon! Sunday, September 29th following worship we will have a Mexican themed covered dish lunch to celebrate the upcoming marriage of William Whitworth to Katie Wesneski. Please bring a dish to share.

Scripture
Luke 16:1-15 (ESV) 

1 He also said to the disciples, “There was a rich man who had a manager, and charges were brought to him that this man was wasting his possessions. 2 And he called him and said to him, ‘What is this that I hear about you? Turn in the account of your management, for you can no longer be manager.’ 3 And the manager said to himself, ‘What shall I do, since my master is taking the management away from me? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. 4 I have decided what to do, so that when I am removed from management, people may receive me into their houses.’ 5 So, summoning his master’s debtors one by one, he said to the first, ‘How much do you owe my master?’ 6 He said, ‘A hundred measures of oil.’ He said to him, ‘Take your bill, and sit down quickly and write fifty.’ 7 Then he said to another, ‘And how much do you owe?’ He said, ‘A hundred measures of wheat.’ He said to him, ‘Take your bill, and write eighty.’ 8 The master commended the dishonest manager for his shrewdness. For the sons of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than the sons of light. 9 And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings. 

10 “One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much. 11 If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches? 12 And if you have not been faithful in that which is another’s, who will give you that which is your own? 13 No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” 

14 The Pharisees, who were lovers of money, heard all these things, and they ridiculed him. 15 And he said to them, “You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God.

Questions for Reflection
1.    How is a shrewd businessperson viewed in our society today?
2.    In what ways does our culture pressure us to love money?
3.    How can the love of money hurt a person?
4.    What plan did the manager devise to secure his future? (16:4-7)
5.    How did the rich master react to the dishonest dealings of the manager? (16:8)
6.    Who are the "people of light" to whom Jesus referred? (16:8)
7.    How does Jesus want us to use money? (16:9)
8.    What main principle should govern the way we use our resources? (16:10-12)
9.    Why is it impossible to serve two masters? (16:13)
10. What did Jesus mean when He said, "Use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves"?
11. Why is it so difficult to keep a proper perspective on money?
12. What can you do to demonstrate your devotion to the Lord?

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (9/15/19)

Scripture
Luke 15:1-32 (ESV) 

1 Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. 2 And the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” 3 So he told them this parable: 4 “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? 5 And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6 And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ 7 Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. 

8 “Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp and sweep the house and seek diligently until she finds it? 9 And when she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.’ 10 Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” 

11 And he said, “There was a man who had two sons. 12 And the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.’ And he divided his property between them. 13 Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living. 14 And when he had spent everything, a severe famine arose in that country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. 16 And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything. 

17 “But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! 18 I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.”’ 20 And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. 21 And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22 But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. 23 And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. 24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to celebrate. 

25 “Now his older son was in the field, and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 And he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. 27 And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has received him back safe and sound.’ 28 But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, 29 but he answered his father, ‘Look, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command, yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him!’ 31 And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. 32 It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.’”

Questions for Reflection
1.    Who had gathered to hear Jesus? (15:1)
2.    What were the Pharisees and teachers of the law doing? (15:2)
3.    Why were the Pharisees and teachers of the law grumbling? (15:2)
4.    What did Jesus do instead of directly rebuking the religious leaders? (15:3)
5.    What does a conscientious shepherd do when one of the flock is lost? (15:4)
6.    How does heaven react when a sinner repents? (15:7)
7.    What causes God to rejoice most? (15:7)
8.    Why did the religious leaders miss the point of what Jesus’ ministry was about?
9.    What does God consider important?
10. What is a "sinner who repents"?
11. In what ways does God’s value of people differ from ours?
12. How do you feel when other people get rewards greater than they deserve?
13. What people do you tend to think don’t deserve God’s mercy?
14. How have you personally experienced the forgiving love of the Father?

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (9/8/19)

Saturday - 8 AM Men’s Breakfast coffee will be on at 6:30. Come join us.

Sunday - 9:45 AM Sunday School Kick-Off Breakfast please bring a breakfast dish to share.

Kids for Christ (KFC) our elementary after-school group resumes meeting Tuesday September 10th. We will pick the children up after school and we will finish at 5:00.

Scripture for Sunday
Matthew 18:21-35

21 Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” 22 Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven. 23 “Therefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. 24 When he began to settle, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents. 25 And since he could not pay, his master ordered him to be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. 26 So the servant fell on his knees, imploring him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you everything.’ 27 And out of pity for him, the master of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. 28 But when that same servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii, and seizing him, he began to choke him, saying, ‘Pay what you owe.’ 29 So his fellow servant fell down and pleaded with him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you.’ 30 He refused and went and put him in prison until he should pay the debt. 31 When his fellow servants saw what had taken place, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their master all that had taken place. 32 Then his master summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. 33 And should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?’ 34 And in anger his master delivered him to the jailers, until he should pay all his debt. 35 So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.”

Questions for Reflection
1.    What makes forgiveness difficult?
2.    What acts of mercy have you seen or heard about recently?
3.    What question did Peter ask Jesus? (18:21)
4.    How did Jesus illustrate His answer to Peter’s question? (18:23)
5.    To what did Jesus compare the kingdom of heaven? (18:23)
6.    What did the indebted servant do? (18:26)
7.    How did the king graciously respond to the indebted servant’s desperate plea? (18:27)
8.    What did the servant go do after his debt was cancelled? (18:28)
9.    How did the onlookers respond when they saw the first servant throw the second in jail? (18:31)
10. How did the king react to the news he heard? (18:32-34)
11. How did Jesus apply this parable to His followers? (18:35)
12. How likely are we to forgive someone once, twice, or even three times?
13. Why is an unforgiving spirit so deadly?
14. In what ways has God shown mercy in forgiving our sins?
15. If God is so willing to forgive us, why are we sometimes unwilling to forgive others?

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (9/1/19)

Scripture
ESV Hebrews 13:1-16

1 Let brotherly love continue. 2 Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. 3 Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body. 4 Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous. 5 Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." 6 So we can confidently say, "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?" 7 Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. 8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. 15 Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. 16 Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.

Questions for Reflection
1.    What kind of love are Christians to demonstrate? (13:1)
2.    Why did the author encourage his readers to entertain strangers? (13:2)
3.    What kinds of people does God want Christians to try to help? (13:3)
4.    What fact about God can foster a contented spirit? (13:5)
5.    How can we learn to be content? (13:5)
6.    What attribute or characteristic of Christ is highlighted here? (13:8)
7.    Why do you think is it so difficult to be content?
8.    What is significant to you about the fact that Jesus never changes?
9.    How can we draw contentment from God’s unchanging nature?
10. What does hospitality mean or entail?
11. How are you able to extend hospitality to others?

September 2019 Newsletter

Click on the link below to view the latest newsletter.

September 2019 Newsletter

Have a great day!
~ Carmen

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (8/25/19)

Scripture
Luke 13:10-17 (ESV) 
10 Now he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the Sabbath. 11 And behold, there was a woman who had had a disabling spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not fully straighten herself. 12 When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said to her, “Woman, you are freed from your disability.” 13 And he laid his hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and she glorified God. 14 But the ruler of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, said to the people, “There are six days in which work ought to be done. Come on those days and be healed, and not on the Sabbath day.” 15 Then the Lord answered him, “You hypocrites! Does not each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from the manger and lead it away to water it? 16 And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day?” 17 As he said these things, all his adversaries were put to shame, and all the people rejoiced at all the glorious things that were done by him.

Questions for Reflection
1.    When has someone criticized you for doing something good?
2.    What did Jesus do when He saw the crippled woman? (13:12)
3.    What led to the crippled woman’s healing? (13:12-13)
4.    How did the woman respond to what Jesus had done? (13:13)
5.    Why was the synagogue ruler indignant? (13:14)
6.    What did Jesus think of the religious leaders? (13:15)
7.    What example did Jesus give to justify His healing of the woman? (13:15-16)
8.    How did different people react to what had happened? (13:17)
9.    How did the Jewish leader view the Sabbath?
10. What must it have taken for the crippled woman to go to the synagogue?
11. What do you think the crippled woman expected?
12. What do you think Jesus’ touch meant to the woman He healed?
13. What restrictions do we foolishly put on God’s work?

Scripture for Sunday (8/18/19)

Sunday August 18, 2019  Baptism of the Sullivan Twins 5 PM in the Llano River at their house with a catered meal. Take 377 North toward London. It is the second gate on the right past Gentry Creek. The gate will be marked.

Scripture for Sunday
ESV Hebrews 11:29 

By faith the people crossed the Red Sea as if on dry land, but the Egyptians, when they attempted to do the same, were drowned. 30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they had been encircled for seven days. 31 By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish with those who were disobedient, because she had given a friendly welcome to the spies. 32 And what more shall I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets- 33 who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, 34 quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, were made strong out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight. 35 Women received back their dead by resurrection. Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, so that they might rise again to a better life. 36 Others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. 37 They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword. They went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, mistreated- 38 of whom the world was not worthy- wandering about in deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. 39 And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised, 40 since God had provided something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect. 

12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (8/11/19)

Scripture
Luke 12:22-34 (ESV) 

22 And he said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. 23 For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. 24 Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! 25 And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? 26 If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest? 27 Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 28 But if God so clothes the grass, which is alive in the field today, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! 29 And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. 30 For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. 31 Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you. 32 “Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. 33 Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. 34 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

Questions for Reflection
1.    About what do people you know tend to worry?
2.    Why did Jesus start talking about worry? (12:22)
3.    About what are we not to worry? (12:22)
4.    What is more important than food or clothes? (12:23)
5.    What are we to learn from birds? (12:24)
6.    What does worrying accomplish? (12:25-26)
7.    What do flowers teach us? (12:27-28)
8.    What does worry about clothes indicate about us? (12:28)
9.    On what basis are we not to worry? (12:30)
10. What does God want us to seek? (12:31)
11. What situations bring out the worrier in you?
12. What has worrying done for you?
13. How do the images of God’s provision for birds and nature affect you?
14. When have you seen the truth that God knows your needs and meets them?

August Calendar Date | Scripture for Sunday (8/4/19)

August Calendar Dates

• Jim and Laurie at Bloys Camp Meeting August 1-6.  We are leaving today after lunch to go to Ft. Davis. We will return late Tuesday night. We will not have any cell service or internet access while we are there. We will answer emails and texts on Wednesday.
• Men’s Breakfast is Saturday, August 3rd, 8 AM. Coffee will be on at 6:30 so come early to visit and bring a friend.
• First Day of School is August 15th. 
• Wednesday Bible Study continues on August 7, 14, 21, & 28. 
• Session Meeting on August 20th.
• Baptism of the Sullivan Twins at the river on Sunday, August 18th at 5 PM with a catered dinner.  All are invited.

Scripture for Sunday

Exodus 14:10-16 (ESV)

10 When Pharaoh drew near, the people of Israel lifted up their eyes, and behold, the Egyptians were marching after them, and they feared greatly. And the people of Israel cried out to the LORD. 11 They said to Moses, “Is it because there are no graves in Egypt that you have taken us away to die in the wilderness? What have you done to us in bringing us out of Egypt? 12 Is not this what we said to you in Egypt: ‘Leave us alone that we may serve the Egyptians’? For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the wilderness.” 13 And Moses said to the people, “Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will work for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall never see again. 14 The LORD will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.” 15 The LORD said to Moses, “Why do you cry to me? Tell the people of Israel to go forward. 16 Lift up your staff, and stretch out your hand over the sea and divide it, that the people of Israel may go through the sea on dry ground.

August 2019 Newsletter

Click on the link below to view the latest newsletter.

August 2019 Newsletter

Have a great day!
~ Carmen

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (7/28/19)

Dena Lackey is in Kirkwood Manor, 2590 TX-337 Loop, New Braunfels, TX 78130

VBS - Saturday, July 27. Meet at the McMillan Cabins at 1:00 for tubing, Bible Story and other activities. Pre-K children come at 5:00 on Saturday for a craft and time to swim before dinner.
ALL Church Fish Fry at 6:00 PM at the McMillan Cabins. Please bring a covered dish to share.

Scripture
Luke 11:1-13

1 Now Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples." 2 And he said to them, "When you pray, say: "Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. 3 Give us each day our daily bread, 4 and forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation." 5 And he said to them, "Which of you who has a friend will go to him at midnight and say to him, 'Friend, lend me three loaves, 6 for a friend of mine has arrived on a journey, and I have nothing to set before him'; 7 and he will answer from within, 'Do not bother me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed. I cannot get up and give you anything'? 8 I tell you, though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his impudence he will rise and give him whatever he needs. 9 And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 10 For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. 11 What father among you, if his son asks for a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent; 12 or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? 13 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!"

Questions for Reflection
1.    What was the disciple’s request? (11:1)
2.    What topics did Jesus’ prayer cover? (11:2-4)
3.    With what is God’s forgiveness of us linked? (11:4)
4.    Why did the person in need go to the friend at midnight? (11:5-8)
5.    Whom does the friend in the house represent? (11:5-8)
6.    *Why did the friend eventually grant the man’s request? (11:8)
7.    What cause-and-effect connection did Jesus use to follow up on the parable? (11:9-10)
8.    Why did the disciples need to be taught how to pray?
9.    Why do we need to learn how to pray?
10. What opinions have you heard on how God responds to our prayers?
11. How can we ask, seek, and knock when we approach our heavenly Father?

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (7/21/19)

Dena Lackey is in Kirkwood Manor, 2590 TX-337 Loop, New Braunfels, TX 78130.

VBS:  Do to a lack of participants, VBS will now be just Saturday July 27. Meet at the McMillan Cabins at 1:00 for tubing, Bible Story and other activities. Pre-K children come at 5:00 on Saturday for a craft and time to swim before dinner.  ALL Church Fish Fry Saturday July 27, 6:00 PM at the McMillan Cabins. Please bring a covered dish to share. It would be helpful to have a head count for cooking fish. Please let the church office know if you will be attending. 446-2165

Scripture
Luke 10:38-42 (ESV) 

38 Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. 40 But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” 41 But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, 42 but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”

Questions for Reflection
1.    What is your home like shortly before guests arrive?
2.    What did Martha do for Jesus and His disciples? (10:38)
3.    What did Mary do while Martha attended to household preparations? (10:39-40)
4.    How much could Martha concentrate on Jesus’ words while preparing for her guests? (10:40)
5.    Of what did Martha accuse Jesus? (10:40)
6.    Of what did Martha accuse her sister? (10:40)
7.    What did Martha want Jesus to do? (10:40)
8.    How did Jesus try to calm down Martha? (10:41)
9.    How would you describe the "Marys" (male and female) that you know?
10. To what extent do you resemble the hurried, frantic personality of Martha?
11. What did Jesus mean when He said that "only one thing is needed"?

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (7/7/19)

VBS - will be July 26-27, we will leave the church at 2:00 PM.
Ages - Finished Kindergarten through finished 5th grade.
Registration forms and a food signup sheet for Friday and Saturday VBS are on the table at the back of the church.
Pre-K children come at 5:00 on Saturday for a craft and time to swim before dinner.
ALL Church Fish Fry Saturday July 27, 6:00 PM at the McMillan Cabins

Scripture for Sunday
Isaiah 6:1-8 (ESV) 

1 In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple. 2 Above him stood the seraphim. Each had six wings: with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. 3 And one called to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!” 4 And the foundations of the thresholds shook at the voice of him who called, and the house was filled with smoke. 5 And I said: “Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts!” 6 Then one of the seraphim flew to me, having in his hand a burning coal that he had taken with tongs from the altar. 7 And he touched my mouth and said: “Behold, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away, and your sin atoned for.” 8 And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.”

Questions for Reflection
1.    What are some of the reasons people volunteer at church?
2.    How did Isaiah see himself once he had been exposed to God’s glory? (6:5)
3.    What provision was made for Isaiah’s guilt in the presence of a holy God? (6:6-7)
4.    How did Isaiah respond to God’s call? (6:8)
5.    What can we learn about the nature of God from the vision Isaiah had before His throne?
6.    What are some of the sins that would lead to a feeling of "unclean lips"?
7.    *Why is it almost impossible, or intolerable, for a human being to stand before a holy God?
8.    What could have motivated Isaiah to volunteer to be God’s messenger?
9.    How can we follow Isaiah’s example of availability to God?

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (6/30/19)

• Dena Lackey fell and is in the hospital in Kerrville, please keep her in your prayers.
• VBS- will be July 26-27, we will leave the church at 2:00 PM.  Ages-Finished Kindergarten through finished 5th grade.  Registration forms and a food signup sheet for Friday and Saturday VBS are on the table at the back of the church. Pre-K children come at 5:00 on Saturday for a craft and time to swim before dinner.
• ALL Church Fish Fry Saturday July 27, 6:00 PM at the McMillan Cabins. 

Scripture
Luke 9:51-62 (ESV) 

51 When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem. 52 And he sent messengers ahead of him, who went and entered a village of the Samaritans, to make preparations for him. 53 But the people did not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem. 54 And when his disciples James and John saw it, they said, “Lord, do you want us to tell fire to come down from heaven and consume them?” 55 But he turned and rebuked them. 56 And they went on to another village. 57 As they were going along the road, someone said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.” 58 And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” 59 To another he said, “Follow me.” But he said, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” 60 And Jesus said to him, “Leave the dead to bury their own dead. But as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God.” 61 Yet another said, “I will follow you, Lord, but let me first say farewell to those at my home.” 62 Jesus said to him, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”

Questions for Reflection
1.    About what sorts of things do you get enthusiastic?
2.    When working on a group project, what excuses do people use to postpone or avoid fulfilling their obligations?
3.    To what lengths did the first man say he would follow Jesus? (9:57)
4.    In what way were foxes and birds of the air more secure than Jesus? (9:58)
5.    What did the second man want to do before following Jesus? (9:59)
6.    How did Jesus respond to the obligations of family life? (9:60, 62)
7.    What did the third person want to do before following Jesus? (9:61)
8.    Who is not fit for the kingdom of God? (9:62)
9.    Given Jesus’ replies to the three would-be followers, what do you suppose their conflicting loyalties were?
10. What did Jesus want the three men to do?
11. With which of these men do you most easily identify?
12. What loyalties conflict with our allegiance to God?
13. From this account, how would you summarize the costs of following Jesus?
14. What are the costs of following Jesus?

July 2019 Newsletter

Click on the link below to view the latest newsletter.

July 2019 Newsletter

Have a Happy 4th of July!!

~ Carmen

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (6/23/19)

Announcements:

• VBS- will be July 26-27, we will leave the church at 2:00 PM.  
• Age:  Finished Kindergarten through finished 5th grade. 
• Registration forms and a food signup sheet for Friday and Saturday VBS are on the table at the back of the church.
• ALL Church Fish Fry Saturday July 27, 6:00 PM at the McMillan Cabins

Scripture for Sunday
Luke 8:26-39 (ESV) 

26 Then they sailed to the country of the Gerasenes, which is opposite Galilee. 27 When Jesus had stepped out on land, there met him a man from the city who had demons. For a long time he had worn no clothes, and he had not lived in a house but among the tombs. 28 When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell down before him and said with a loud voice, “What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, do not torment me.” 29 For he had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. (For many a time it had seized him. He was kept under guard and bound with chains and shackles, but he would break the bonds and be driven by the demon into the desert.) 30 Jesus then asked him, “What is your name?” And he said, “Legion,” for many demons had entered him. 31 And they begged him not to command them to depart into the abyss. 32 Now a large herd of pigs was feeding there on the hillside, and they begged him to let them enter these. So he gave them permission. 33 Then the demons came out of the man and entered the pigs, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and drowned. 

34 When the herdsmen saw what had happened, they fled and told it in the city and in the country. 35 Then people went out to see what had happened, and they came to Jesus and found the man from whom the demons had gone, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind, and they were afraid. 36 And those who had seen it told them how the demon-possessed man had been healed. 37 Then all the people of the surrounding country of the Gerasenes asked him to depart from them, for they were seized with great fear. So he got into the boat and returned. 38 The man from whom the demons had gone begged that he might be with him, but Jesus sent him away, saying, 39 “Return to your home, and declare how much God has done for you.” And he went away, proclaiming throughout the whole city how much Jesus had done for him.

Questions for Reflection
1.    What situations or people do you consider hopeless?
2.    What people do others try to avoid when they encounter them on the street?
3.    What had the demon-possessed man’s life been like until he met Jesus? (8:27, 29)
4.    *How did the demon-possessed man react to Jesus? (8:28)
5.    How did those tending the pigs react to what happened? (8:34)
6.    Who else heard what happened, and what did they find at the region of the Gerasenes? (8:35)
7.    What did the man want to do? (8:38)
8.    Why did Jesus say no to the man’s request to go with Him? (8:38-39)
9.    What was the result of the man’s obedience? (8:39)
10. What does this story say about Jesus’ concern for an individual’s life?

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (6/16/19)

The pool party scheduled for tonight has been postponed until further notice.

Scripture for Sunday
Matthew 28:16-20 (ESV) 

16 Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. 17 And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Questions for Reflection
1.    What images spring to mind when you hear the words "missionary" or "evangelism"?
2.    What responses did Jesus’ appearance elicit? (28:17)
3.    Where did Jesus tell His disciples to go? (28:19)
4.    What activities were the disciples to be involved in? (28:19-20)
5.    With what words of comfort did Jesus leave His disciples? (28:20)
6.    Why do you think some of the disciples doubted when they saw Christ?
7.    What causes Christians to doubt God today?
8.    How do you think you might have reacted to the appearance of the risen Christ?
9.    What does it mean to us that Jesus has "all authority"?
10. What does it mean to "make disciples"?
11. What role do you have in making disciples?
12. How can knowing that Jesus is always with us make a difference in our daily lives?

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (6/9/19)

Announcements:
1.  The nominating committee will meet Thursday, June 13 at 5:30 PM in the green room to nominate a member to fill Mary Whitworth’s term on the session.
2.  Friday, June 14th we have rented the city pool 6:30 to 8:30 PM. Come enjoy some summer fun at the pool.

Scripture for Sunday
Acts 2:1-21 (ESV) 

1 When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3 And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. 5 Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. 6 And at this sound the multitude came together, and they were bewildered, because each one was hearing them speak in his own language. 7 And they were amazed and astonished, saying, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 And how is it that we hear, each of us in his own native language? 9 Parthians and Medes and Elamites and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, 11 both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabians—we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God.” 12 And all were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?” 13 But others mocking said, “They are filled with new wine.” 

14 But Peter, standing with the eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them: “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and give ear to my words. 15 For these people are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was uttered through the prophet Joel: 17 “‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; 18 even on my male servants and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy. 19 And I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below, blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke; 20 the sun shall be turned to darkness and the moon to blood, before the day of the Lord comes, the great and magnificent day. 21 And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.’

Questions for Reflection
1.    What was celebrated on the day of Pentecost? (2:1)
2.    What group of people was gathered together? (2:1)
3.    Where did a violent wind come from? (2:2)
4.    What did the followers of Christ hear and see? (2:2-3)
5.    What was the importance of the wind and fire? (2:2-4)
6.    How did the God-fearing Jews visiting Jerusalem react when they heard Christians speaking their languages? (2:6-11)
7.    Besides being amazed, how did the crowd react to the unusual happening they witnessed? (2:12-13)
8.    Why is the coming of the Spirit associated with wind, fire, and different languages?
9.    What does it mean to be filled with the Holy Spirit?
10. How does God use us to witness to others?
11. When has God enabled you to do something that you didn’t think you could do?

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (6/2/19)

Scripture for Sunday
John 17:20-26

20 "I do not ask for these only, but also for those  who will believe in me through their word, 21  that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that  they also may be in  us, so that the world  may believe that you have sent me. 22  The glory that you have given me  I have given to them,  that they may be one even as we are one, 23  I in them and you in me,  that they may become perfectly one,  so that the world may know that you sent me and  loved them even as  you loved me. 24 Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be  with me  where I am,  to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me  before the foundation of the world. 25 O righteous Father, even though the world does not know you, I know you, and these know that you have sent me. 26 I made known to them your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and  I in them."

Questions for Reflection
1.    When have you longed for unity in your family, church, or community?
2.    Why are religious beliefs divisive?
3.    For whom did Jesus pray? (17:20)
4.    Why did Jesus want all believers to be one? (17:21)
5.    What had Jesus given the disciples? (17:22)
6.    How did Jesus want believers to be unified? (17:22)
7.    What did Jesus want the world to know? (17:23)
8.    In what way are all Christians one?
9.    How are Christians today divided? Why?
10. Why is unity so difficult for Christians to achieve?
11. What does the world today know about the Father?
12. How is the Father’s relationship with the Son an example for us to follow in our relationships with other Christians?

June 2019 Newsletter

Click on the link below to view the latest newsletter.

June 2019 Newsletter

Have a great day!
~ Carmen

Upcoming Events

• Wednesday May 29, Bible study on the book of Romans begins today 5:30 in Grace Place.
• Saturday June 1, Men’s Breakfast 8 AM. 
• Sunday June 2, Pot Luck Lunch for Bobby and Diane Colston. Brisket provided by the church; please bring a side dish or dessert to share.

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (5/26/19)

Scripture for Sunday
John 14:15-31 (ESV) 

15 “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, 17 even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you. 18 “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. 19 Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. 20 In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. 21 Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.” 22 Judas (not Iscariot) said to him, “Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world?” 23 Jesus answered him, “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. 24 Whoever does not love me does not keep my words. And the word that you hear is not mine but the Father’s who sent me. 25 “These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you. 26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. 28 You heard me say to you, ‘I am going away, and I will come to you.’ If you loved me, you would have rejoiced, because I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. 29 And now I have told you before it takes place, so that when it does take place you may believe. 30 I will no longer talk much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no claim on me, 31 but I do as the Father has commanded me, so that the world may know that I love the Father. Rise, let us go from here.

Questions for Reflection
1.    What people, things, or experiences in life bring you comfort and peace of mind?
2.    How do the people you love (whether close friends, spouse, or family members) know that you love them?
3.    What did Jesus say the Counselor would do? (14:25-26)
4.    What did Jesus leave with His disciples? (14:27)
5.    *Why were the disciples to be glad that Jesus was leaving them? (14:28)
6.    Why did Jesus tell His disciples about the future? (14:29)
7.    How are we taught by the Holy Spirit?
8.    When have you been comforted by the Holy Spirit?
9.    *What is the peace that Jesus has given us?
10. How can we experience the peace Jesus has given us?

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (5/19/19)

• The church office will be closed tomorrow, Friday May 17.
• On Sunday, May 19th, following worship, we will have a pot luck lunch to celebrate our high school graduate, Chloe Jackowski!

Scripture for Sunday
John 15:9-17 (ESV)  

As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love.  [10] If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love.  [11] These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. [12] "This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.  [13] Greater love has no one than this, that someone lays down his life for his friends.  [14] You are my friends if you do what I command you.  [15] No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.  [16] You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.  [17] These things I command you, so that you will love one another.

Questions for Reflection
1.    What did Jesus urge His disciples to do? (15:9)
2.    How were Jesus’ disciples to remain in His love? (15:10)
3.    What command did Jesus give His disciples? (15:12)
4.    What is the greatest manifestation of love? (15:13)
5.    Who did Jesus say were His friends? (15:14)
6.    Why did Jesus choose His disciples? (15:16)
7.    What was Jesus’ command? (15:17)
8.    When do you struggle with loving others the way Jesus has loved you?
9.    What kind of friend are you to Jesus?
10. Why is it hard to be Jesus’ friend?

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (5/12/19)

Scripture for Sunday
Psalm 23:1-6 (KJV) 

1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. 3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

Questions for Reflection
1.    What sometimes threatens your peace of mind or sense of security?
2.    What do people usually take for granted?
3.    When do you most want peace and quiet?
4.    How did David describe the Lord? (23:1)
5.    What is God like? (23:1)
6.    What mental picture did David use to describe his role in relationship with the Lord? (23:1-3)
7.    How far does the guidance and protection of the Lord extend for His people? (23:4-5)
8.    How does God provide for His children, even in the face of death? (23:4-5)
9.    How does God honor those He loves? (23:5-6)
10. What are some of your fears?
11. How can you follow David’s example in dealing with your fears?
12. How has God provided for your needs in the past?
13. How have you experienced God’s comfort?
14. In what way has God made your "cup overflow"?
15. How does this passage encourage you to face the future?

Announcements, Scripture & Questions for Sunday (5/5/19)

Announcements:

• Men's Breakfast Saturday morning 8 AM. Coffee will be on at 6:30 so come early to visit and bring a friend.
• Margaret Jane Allen was born May 2nd weighing 8 lbs 10 oz. Proud parents are Bill and Meredith Allen.
• Graham Allen McLeod was born May 3rd weighing 9 lbs. Proud parents are Dustin and KK McLeod. 
• Bob and Laurrie Allen are the proud grandparents of baby Margaret and baby Graham. Congratulations to the whole family!!
• We will have a pot luck luncheon on Sunday following worship to celebrate the upcoming nuptials of Olivia Knesse and Seth Shanklin. 

Scripture for Sunday

John 21:1-19 (ESV) 

1 After this Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias, and he revealed himself in this way. 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (called the Twin), Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. 3 Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. 

4 Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. 5 Jesus said to them, “Children, do you have any fish?” They answered him, “No.” 6 He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, because of the quantity of fish. 7 That disciple whom Jesus loved therefore said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment, for he was stripped for work, and threw himself into the sea. 8 The other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, but about a hundred yards off. 

9 When they got out on land, they saw a charcoal fire in place, with fish laid out on it, and bread. 10 Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish that you have just caught.” 11 So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, 153 of them. And although there were so many, the net was not torn. 12 Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” Now none of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. 13 Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and so with the fish. 14 This was now the third time that Jesus was revealed to the disciples after he was raised from the dead. 

15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16 He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. 18 Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.” 19 (This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.”

Questions for Reflection
1.    When did you ever have to restore a broken relationship?
2.    When have you taken care of another person?
3.    What concern did Peter raise? (21:20-21)
4.    With what did Jesus want Peter to concern himself? (21:22)
5.    How did Jesus want Peter to serve Him? (21:22)
6.    Who are Jesus’ sheep?
7.    How are we to serve and care for other Christians?
8.    How do we each serve God in a unique way?

May 2019 Newsletter

Click on the link below to view the May 2019 Newsletter.

May 2019 Newsletter

Have a great day!
~ Carmen

Scripture & Questions for Sunday (4/28/19)

Scripture for Sunday
John 20:19-31 (ESV) 

19 On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. 21 Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.” 24 Now Thomas, one of the Twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never believe.” 26 Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe.” 28 Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” 29 Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” 30 Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; 31 but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

Questions for Reflection
1.    When have you doubted a story from a reliable source?
2.    What did Thomas say he needed in order to believe that Jesus was raised from the dead? (20:25)
3.    How did Jesus restore Thomas’s faith? (20:26)
4.    What did Jesus say to Thomas? (20:27)
5.    What did Thomas say in response to Jesus’ words? (20:28)
6.    What did Jesus say about seeing and believing? (20:29)
7.    When have you had doubts about your faith in Christ?
8.    How should we deal with our doubts about Christianity?
9.    Why is it difficult to believe in Christ?
10. In what ways do we need to trust Christ?
11. On what evidence do you rely for your belief that Jesus rose from the dead?
12. What sort of evidence for the truth of Christianity has John given us?