Highland, I heard that service went really last Sunday! Thanks to all who led, allowing us the chance to get away to the beach! We had a really great time and the weather was perfect! Even still, any good vacation ends with getting back home. We are back and look forward to gathering with you this Sunday to exalt the name of Jesus! By the way, I heard that Robert did a great job preaching last Sunday. To listen to his sermon, click here.
Drawing From Daniel Recap
Chapter 1: (8) “But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king’s food, or with the wine that he drank. Therefore he asked the chief of the eunuchs to allow him not to defile himself. (9) And God gave Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the chief of the eunuchs…”
Daniel remained resolved to the name of His Lord, while, at the same time, remaining respectful toward his oppressors. We see this as Daniel handled the matter of food with the king’s steward in such a gentle way.
Notice in verse 9 that Scripture tells us that God’s favor and compassion rested upon Daniel in this matter. While wanting to avoid becoming unclean through his diet, he respected the steward’s position, not demanding anything – rather, he was considerate of his predicament. Given the ten-day-test is agreed upon, the outcome is evidenced in their health and the steward supports their position. In Daniel’s resolve to want to honor His Lord, while respecting even his enemies, the Lord proves faithful! In so doing, the Lord places even his enemies at peace with him (Proverbs 16:7).
In situations where we are in a secular setting, honoring the name of the Lord must remain our greatest aim, Highland. How we do this is seen so clearly revealed in Daniel’s heart and responses, but mainly in his approach with others.
As the favor of the Lord rested upon Daniel (vs 9), the Spirit of God is fortifying him for every situation he will encounter. The Holy Spirit carries authority over every evil and unclean spirit and, through submission to the Lord, Daniel brings His authority center-stage in his life.
As we, like Daniel, through a confident faith, access His power and authority, we are transformed, according to His likeness. In this instance, we see Daniel bear the fruits of God’s Holy Spirit in a way that honors the Lord’s holy name, while promoting the welfare of even his enemy, at the same time. Highland, we must draw from Daniel in how to approach these instances by being submissive to the Holy Spirit. This Sunday, I will be picking back up our series through Daniel. I look forward to continuing to work through it, together, Highland.
Throughout the Week
Mondays @ M2540, 6:30pm
Our team continues to show up and love our neighbors each and every Monday at M2540. Shoutout to those who do it and stick to it! Thank you for honoring the name of our Lord by being so dedicated to caring for our streets!
Prayer Gathering, Wednesdays, 9am
Ms. Patti continues to lead our Prayer Gatherings, 9am-10am, each Wednesday morning at the Firehouse. All are welcome to come and to pray.
Kim and Nancy Sheek have so graciously agreed to host an eight-week series this fall for us at their home. This study that’s centered on marriage will be through a book called, “Love & War”, by John and Staci Eldredge. We will meet Wednesday evenings, starting September 27th. (*please note: childcare will not be available). This time together will be so meaningful for those who are married. Kim and Nancy will be able to offer us so much to help us grow in our relationship with Christ and our spouses! I want to strongly encourage all of our married couples to make every effort to attend. If you are interested in attending, please register by clicking the button below.
We start next Wednesday
The study will run from 6:15pm–7:45pm Wednesday evenings.
Plan to eat dinner beforehand, as there will not be time to include a meal.
Reminder: childcare will not be available during this study.
Read the first two chapters of the book to be prepared for the first session. Please note: if you’ve requested a book from the church, we will order it this week. *** Books are in and will be passed along to you, thanks to Megan and Julie. Please read chapters 1 and 2 to be ready for our first session, which starts next Wednesday.
Throughout the Weekend
Chicken & Rice, Saturdays, 10am
Our team’s gathering this Saturday to bring the love of Christ to our streets – join us at 10am, at the cafe. All are welcome to come and serve. Shoutout to all who serve! Especially our van-drivers this week, both for Saturdays and for Sundays! Thank you for all you do!
Sunday Mornings at 9am
The conversation continues this Saturday morning. Come and grab a cup of coffee and a breakfast sandwich and be part of the conversation, all are welcome. We share life together and offer songs of worship to Jesus. Jo Ellen’s devotion always closes out our time together, as she gives us the opportunity to firm up our grip on Scripture in such meaningful and practical ways.
Our Men’s Bible Study continues this Sunday, at 9am. Robert Singleton continues to lead the charge, men; know you’re invited! I also hear that he did a great job preaching last Sunday! His sermon will be posted soon.
SUNDAY MORNINGS AT 10AM
Our church service (we call services “Firehouse Gatherings”) are held each Sunday morning in the Firehouse (3402 6th Ave). Thank you all for being willing to traverse throughout this season, handling all of the elements like champs! Remember to dress comfortably, as there is no air conditioning.
It’s getting colorful in here!
Filling the Rooms
Highland, our plan to make our house a home is called: Filling the Rooms. Now that we’ve gone over the plan, let’s carry out the plan together. Please click on the link below and sign up to be part of filling the rooms. You can also ask questions or make recommendations, too.
I look forward to seeing you, Highland.
I am grateful for you,
Rob