Weekly Newsletter May 13

When I was a teenager on the farm, I drove tractor-trailers to haul feed for our cows. As soon as you pop the clutch and step on the gas, the engine roars and tons of torque push the truck and pull the immense load. I also loved to drive the big farm tractors that tore up the soil like it was hot butter. On the back of every tractor is a “PTO shaft,” which stands for “Power-Take-Off.” It’s a large rod of metal that connects the power of the tractor to any piece of equipment that the tractor is pulling. A PTO shaft transfers power to a harvester that cuts hay, chops it, pushes it together, and ties it up with a string. Or the PTO shaft transfers power to a machine that digs peanuts out of the soil, shakes off the dirt and throws them into a wagon to be taken to the granary. It also powers a manure spreader that throws (you know what) to fertilize the soil and increases a harvest. You get the idea. 

Ephesians 1:19-23 says, “I pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead…for the benefit of the church.”

Jesus is our link to God’s incredible and mighty power in our lives. Without Jesus, we are powerless, but with Jesus as our “PTO,” we are connected with God’s power so that we can harvest souls and save them from death. With God’s power, we spread good news, like (you know what) to bring life to those who live in despair. And with God's power, we have the hope of our own forgiveness and eternal life. 

How are you connected with the great power of God, the creator of the world?

Let’s not neglect getting together this weekend to give thanks to God, to encourage one another, and to continually connect with God through Jesus, whom we believe.

Let’s love, serve, and engage.

Give thanks. Praise our ever-loving God, Jesus.

Pastor Roger

Here is a prayer for you:
All Powerful God, who created us, we need you in our world. We need you in our lives. I need your strength, wisdom, and power. Forgive me for neglecting to obey you and live according to your ways. Teach me to follow you. I ask this in the name of Jesus, your son. Amen.

We are here to love God and all people so that all people may experience the

life-changing love of Jesus!

LOVE - We meet every weekend to experience God's love for us and show His love for others.

SERVE- We use our abilities, talents, skills, and passions for the good of others.

ENGAGE - We engage with friends to care for one another and to make new friends so they may experience God's kindness too. 

Family Vacation Bible School at Both Campuses!
Elsmere: Every Saturday, 11AM-1PM, starting June 25
Bear: Every Wednesday, 6PM-8PM, starting June 22.