Weekly Newsletter Sept. 3
Broken Skin. Broken Pride.
Does God Abandon Us?
My bike accident tore open flesh on my finger, wrist, elbows, belly, and knees. I’m sure I took it on the chin, too. Worst of all, my pride was shattered. Later that day, I laid in my bed, hurt, tired, embarrassed, and hungry. From outside my window, I could hear my family and neighbors enjoying a picnic in the yard right outside my bedroom window. I wanted Mom to bring me a hot dog, but I didn’t want anyone to see me. Nor did I want to explain that my condition was caused by my own disobedience and foolishness. So I screamed through the window, “Mo-o-o-o-o-om! I’m hungry!” No answer. I could still hear laughter and conversation. So I yelled even louder, “Mom!” Still no answer. Mom was letting me endure the consequences of my own actions. It was a tough lesson. I felt abandoned. But I eventually got the point. I settled myself down and simply waited. I never did go outside. I was too full of pride. But after a while Mom did bring me some supper. And after that, I probably did go play with my friends. And my skin eventually healed, too.
I’ve been thinking of Jesus dying on the cross, and about the time when he cried out to his Heavenly Father, “Why have you forsaken me?” It’s important to realize that Jesus was convinced that God had left him. We know that God was there, but that was not Jesus’ experience. We know God was there because days later, God restored the broken flesh and bones of Jesus and breathed new life into him again. Jesus lives even today, and by our trust in him. Our sins are forgiven. He gives us new life here and now and the hope of eternal life with him.
As you face daily life, give thanks to God for new life through Jesus. If you are not aware of God’s work in your life, send me a note, give me a call, or worship with us this weekend. We’ll encourage you to trust him, and when you do, you’ll see that he has never left you.
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.
You've got a skill we need. Help us show God's love at
Community Day
Sunday, September 19
Here's a prayer for you:
Loving Heavenly Father, the words I’ve written come easily, but the truth of them is often difficult for some people to believe. Help our unbelief. Send your Holy Spirit so that these words become real life, active, and powerful to shape our life forever. In Jesus’ name, Amen
- Pastor Roger
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