Wednesday, September 29, 2010
SATURDAY CLEANING
We met with the Structural Engineer yesterday and after observing everything with the structure in the Church, he has given us the green light that the Structure is in no danger of falling and that it is absolutely safe for us to have meetings in the basement of the Church. I will let the Trustees give the total update on what he found, but in the meantime, that is good news that we can have Bible Study and meetings again in the basement of the Church! So, in order to do that, we are meeting at noon on Saturday to clean the basement and get things organized that have been moved down there from upstairs. Anyone who would like to help with this task would be most welcome!! It will be nice to be at least partially back in our Church for the time being. I have to say I was encouraged by the report and the plan to fix our structure. Just keep praying that all of this will go smoothly so we can be back home in a timely fashion!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Happy Birthday Conner!!!!
That is such a cute little picture in the rocking chair, but you still are a cute little guy!! Hope you have a great birthday!! Lot’s of hugs, your friends, from Hinkle Creek, Betty, Jeff & Annette Vanwinkle!!!JJJ
Monday, September 27, 2010
TUESDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY
The Bible Study will be held at Tim & Heather Browning's home this week at 6:30. Their address is 5932 Doverton Dr., Noblesville. To get there, you go east from Hinkle on 216th St. to Little Chicago Rd.. turn south on Little Chicago to the first subdivision on the east side. Then entrance drive is Doverton. Follow Doverton to their address (5932) which is on the north side of the street.
Please bring hot dogs, buns, or baked beans or anything else that will go with that menu. Paulette is bringing Mac & Cheese. Hope to see you all there!!! Thanks Tim and Heather for hosting it this week!
Please bring hot dogs, buns, or baked beans or anything else that will go with that menu. Paulette is bringing Mac & Cheese. Hope to see you all there!!! Thanks Tim and Heather for hosting it this week!
Rock Climbing Wall at Quaker Haven
Many of our people climbed this 45 foot wall then descended down a 600 foot zip line after making it to the top! Great job everyone! I heard there were a lot of sore backs!
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Family Camp
Wow, that was such a great time that we all shared at Quaker Haven!!! I wanted to thank all of the adults who helped set that up. It was indeed worth it all! There is probably nothing I enjoy more than being with my friends, and it was so nice that we all got to be together for such a long period of time. It went by very fast, and I enjoyed every minute of it!! I can't wait until we go again next year!
I wanted to tell about my favorite activity that we did at camp. For those that didn't go, Bob taught Bible study on Saturday, and he used a very clever illustration. He had one person start off by holding onto a ball of red yarn. As we were all gathered around in a circle, that person was to pick someone else who really impacted their life. After you made your selection, you were to tell about how that person has helped you and impacted you. When all of this was completed, you were to hold on to the end of the yarn and throw the ball to the person that impacted you. Your selected person would then do the same to someone else, and by the time everyone had picked the one person that means alot to them, the yarn was going all different directions which made it look like a spider web. We were then instructed to pull the yarn real tight, and that symbolized the strength in the bond between you and the person you picked. As we pulled and grew closer together, Bob came around with a pair of scissors and cut each bond, one by one. That symbolized the fact that when someone doesn't do their part in a friendship/relationship, the bond begins to wither, and before you know it, you are disconnected. It's sad to think that such a strong bond can be broken like that. However, that is why we must all do our part to be friends with one another. We, (myself included), should always treat others as we would want to be treated. If we stay strong and do our part, nothing can separate the bond that we all have with one another. This bond I speak of is REAL. It's not something imaginary; IT IS THERE! I believe the main message in Bob's lesson was to love others and be a good, friendly Christian. There is nothing more pleasing to God than to witness His children love one another. It was truly a wonderful lesson; thank you, Bob!
There were many other wonderful moments that I could tell about. If you were to take out all of the fun, sports, jokes, games, and whatever else besides the love that was there, it would still be worth it all just to go there and experience the love that each individual has for one another. The love is strong, and the bonds are strong. It was also nice to be able to meet some new people that I now call my friends!!! It was also good to reunite with people I haven't seen in awhile and people I don't see very often! One person in particular that I was able to reunite with was Kaneesha. (Bob's daughter) I had not seen her for quite awhile, and she was also the person I picked during the yarn illustration! I have known her for a very long time, and we were able to talk about the days when the church was very small and when I was basically the only kid that was attending Hinkle regularly at that time. Ever since I can remember going to Hinkle, she has been my friend. The friendship that we shared was the reason behind me picking her to toss the ball of yarn to. Even though the church was very small, she made me feel very welcome there. We went on and on talking about memories that were made at Hinkle. It was nice to be able to discuss those memories and reconnect. I'm glad she made me her friend when I was very young! Because of God's healing power that covered Hinkle, all of us are now able to make more memories with more people!
Why don't we all try writing about our favorite memories from camp? I think it would be a great idea to share the moments that stood out to us the most! My reason for posting this is to thank those who helped make all of it possible. I know God ultimately is responsible to Hinkle's growth, but I felt like I should thank the people who allowed God to use them like this. It was truly a time to remember, and I think the main theme in all of it was to be a friend. Atleast, that's what I got out of the whole experience. Being a friend can mean much more than we might expect. I hope we can always be friends with one another. If we stay consistent in our growth with Christ, then the love that we all share will also grow. Well, thank you all for playing a part in making another memory.
(Unless I feel I am supposed to do it differently, I think I'm going to make the teens' Bible study lesson on friendships from a Christian perspective!)
Thank you all for being my friends!! :)
I wanted to tell about my favorite activity that we did at camp. For those that didn't go, Bob taught Bible study on Saturday, and he used a very clever illustration. He had one person start off by holding onto a ball of red yarn. As we were all gathered around in a circle, that person was to pick someone else who really impacted their life. After you made your selection, you were to tell about how that person has helped you and impacted you. When all of this was completed, you were to hold on to the end of the yarn and throw the ball to the person that impacted you. Your selected person would then do the same to someone else, and by the time everyone had picked the one person that means alot to them, the yarn was going all different directions which made it look like a spider web. We were then instructed to pull the yarn real tight, and that symbolized the strength in the bond between you and the person you picked. As we pulled and grew closer together, Bob came around with a pair of scissors and cut each bond, one by one. That symbolized the fact that when someone doesn't do their part in a friendship/relationship, the bond begins to wither, and before you know it, you are disconnected. It's sad to think that such a strong bond can be broken like that. However, that is why we must all do our part to be friends with one another. We, (myself included), should always treat others as we would want to be treated. If we stay strong and do our part, nothing can separate the bond that we all have with one another. This bond I speak of is REAL. It's not something imaginary; IT IS THERE! I believe the main message in Bob's lesson was to love others and be a good, friendly Christian. There is nothing more pleasing to God than to witness His children love one another. It was truly a wonderful lesson; thank you, Bob!
There were many other wonderful moments that I could tell about. If you were to take out all of the fun, sports, jokes, games, and whatever else besides the love that was there, it would still be worth it all just to go there and experience the love that each individual has for one another. The love is strong, and the bonds are strong. It was also nice to be able to meet some new people that I now call my friends!!! It was also good to reunite with people I haven't seen in awhile and people I don't see very often! One person in particular that I was able to reunite with was Kaneesha. (Bob's daughter) I had not seen her for quite awhile, and she was also the person I picked during the yarn illustration! I have known her for a very long time, and we were able to talk about the days when the church was very small and when I was basically the only kid that was attending Hinkle regularly at that time. Ever since I can remember going to Hinkle, she has been my friend. The friendship that we shared was the reason behind me picking her to toss the ball of yarn to. Even though the church was very small, she made me feel very welcome there. We went on and on talking about memories that were made at Hinkle. It was nice to be able to discuss those memories and reconnect. I'm glad she made me her friend when I was very young! Because of God's healing power that covered Hinkle, all of us are now able to make more memories with more people!
Why don't we all try writing about our favorite memories from camp? I think it would be a great idea to share the moments that stood out to us the most! My reason for posting this is to thank those who helped make all of it possible. I know God ultimately is responsible to Hinkle's growth, but I felt like I should thank the people who allowed God to use them like this. It was truly a time to remember, and I think the main theme in all of it was to be a friend. Atleast, that's what I got out of the whole experience. Being a friend can mean much more than we might expect. I hope we can always be friends with one another. If we stay consistent in our growth with Christ, then the love that we all share will also grow. Well, thank you all for playing a part in making another memory.
(Unless I feel I am supposed to do it differently, I think I'm going to make the teens' Bible study lesson on friendships from a Christian perspective!)
Thank you all for being my friends!! :)
Friday, September 24, 2010
UPDATED DIRECTIONS TO QUAKER HAVEN
I apologize, but I made a mistake in the earlier directions to Quaker Haven Camp. Here are the correct directions:
Take U.S. 31 north to Peru. At Peru, you turn RIGHT on U.S. 24 and follow that until you come to Hgwy. 115 and turn LEFT. Then it merges into hgwy. 15. Follow 15 all the way up to Leesburg (which is past Warsaw). About 3 miles or so past Leesburg, you will see a sign pointing to Quaker Haven Camp and you will turn RIGHT and follow all of the little signs with arrows that will say QHC. I'm SO sorry for having that wrong in the earlier directions. I sure hope you all see this before taking off. I'd feel terrible if someone got lost because of me!!!!
Take U.S. 31 north to Peru. At Peru, you turn RIGHT on U.S. 24 and follow that until you come to Hgwy. 115 and turn LEFT. Then it merges into hgwy. 15. Follow 15 all the way up to Leesburg (which is past Warsaw). About 3 miles or so past Leesburg, you will see a sign pointing to Quaker Haven Camp and you will turn RIGHT and follow all of the little signs with arrows that will say QHC. I'm SO sorry for having that wrong in the earlier directions. I sure hope you all see this before taking off. I'd feel terrible if someone got lost because of me!!!!
Is a World of ‘Cool’ Killing Christ? By Bob Walters
Spirituality Column #199
August 31, 2010
Current in Carmel - Current in Westfield - Current in Noblesville
(Indianapolis north suburban home newspapers)
“World” in the Biblical sense can mean very good, godly things, or very bad, evil things.
For example, in John 3:16 we are assured God will save our world and us with it because He created it, He loves us, and in faith we are worth saving.
“God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son … ”
Great! The world is good.
But then, “In this world you will have trouble.”
John 16:33 presents the world as a catch-all name for the bad stuff. Only God, in the person of Jesus Christ, can “overcome the world.”
Uh oh! The world is sin.
The Bible plainly credits God with all Creation, and at the same time lays the root and blame of all sin on “the world.” Any wonder why the Christian church has a hard time trying to figure out where it fits into the modern world?
The accomplished young magazine writer Brett McCracken (Christianity Today), has taken a thought-provoking and entertaining stab at sorting out the modern church world of fads and fashions in his first book, Hipster Christianity: When Church and Cool Collide.
The title, he writes, is a “nod to Mere Christianity” by C.S. Lewis. McCracken recently finished writing Hipster at the Kilns, Lewis’s home near Oxford, England. The book was published this month.
Thankfully, the book is not about how to be a Christian hipster. It is a look at the history, pros, and cons of Christians trying to improve on the look and work of Jesus Christ through the lens of “cool.”
Ah yes. “Cool.” McCracken provides an intelligent conversation on how Christians try to synergize their faith with the world of intellectual fashion, cultural trends, technology, and marketing. All quantified with modern metrics, and a steaming café au lait on the side.
The history of the church has been riddled with heresies which were an expression of contemporary “cool.” Today, hipsters young and old walk out of churches, never to return. The church, you see, is too much like the world.
And eventually, the world will do something God won’t … go away.
Serious Christians will appreciate the depth and direction of McCracken’s conversation, and I pray hipsters will learn that Jesus Christ plays “cool” at a level unique in the history of mankind.
The world of Christ is a world worth seeing. Worldly cool won’t cut it.
August 31, 2010
Current in Carmel - Current in Westfield - Current in Noblesville
(Indianapolis north suburban home newspapers)
“World” in the Biblical sense can mean very good, godly things, or very bad, evil things.
For example, in John 3:16 we are assured God will save our world and us with it because He created it, He loves us, and in faith we are worth saving.
“God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son … ”
Great! The world is good.
But then, “In this world you will have trouble.”
John 16:33 presents the world as a catch-all name for the bad stuff. Only God, in the person of Jesus Christ, can “overcome the world.”
Uh oh! The world is sin.
The Bible plainly credits God with all Creation, and at the same time lays the root and blame of all sin on “the world.” Any wonder why the Christian church has a hard time trying to figure out where it fits into the modern world?
The accomplished young magazine writer Brett McCracken (Christianity Today), has taken a thought-provoking and entertaining stab at sorting out the modern church world of fads and fashions in his first book, Hipster Christianity: When Church and Cool Collide.
The title, he writes, is a “nod to Mere Christianity” by C.S. Lewis. McCracken recently finished writing Hipster at the Kilns, Lewis’s home near Oxford, England. The book was published this month.
Thankfully, the book is not about how to be a Christian hipster. It is a look at the history, pros, and cons of Christians trying to improve on the look and work of Jesus Christ through the lens of “cool.”
Ah yes. “Cool.” McCracken provides an intelligent conversation on how Christians try to synergize their faith with the world of intellectual fashion, cultural trends, technology, and marketing. All quantified with modern metrics, and a steaming café au lait on the side.
The history of the church has been riddled with heresies which were an expression of contemporary “cool.” Today, hipsters young and old walk out of churches, never to return. The church, you see, is too much like the world.
And eventually, the world will do something God won’t … go away.
Serious Christians will appreciate the depth and direction of McCracken’s conversation, and I pray hipsters will learn that Jesus Christ plays “cool” at a level unique in the history of mankind.
The world of Christ is a world worth seeing. Worldly cool won’t cut it.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Creation, Facts, and Purpose By Bob Walters
In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth … (Genesis 1:1)
Considering that Creation is among the hottest of contemporary, fightin’-words, flash-point topics in church, theological, political, scientific, cosmological, educational, philosophical and biblical circles, this could be a dangerous discussion.
However the intention here is to simply present a few non-combative thoughts on the how and why of Creation, not challenge anyone’s Christianity or second-guess God.
Neither is this an attempt to prove the “six day” teaching nor to bash evolution, but we will put the Bible in its rightful and true spot as God’s voice.
The truths we’re working with are that God exists, God is eternal and uncreated, God is the creator of all things, God had a reason for creating all things, God is omniscient (knows all) and omnipotent (can do all), and the Bible is what it says it is.
Let’s also clearly state that the world is real, we are real, we are alive, we are aware, and what we do matters. Plus, it is reliably entrenched in our human brains to ask how and why Creation happened, and how and why we are here.
Science and Philosophy (God created them, too) ask how and why all the time.
Science asks: How do things happen? What are the predictable and repeatable results? What are the facts?
Philosophy asks: Why am I here? Why are we here? What is truth? What is our purpose?
The scientific “How” leads to facts: we find out how God made things, leading to knowledge. And then, philosophically asking “Why” God made things leads to discovery of God’s purpose, leading to relationship and faith.
The Bible reveals little of “how” God created us, but is overwhelmingly packed with “why.” From Adam and Eve to Abraham to Moses to the Prophets to Jesus Christ to Paul, God describes His relationship with mankind, and the relationship He wants us to have with each other.
God’s purpose for Creation becomes clear as our faith grows, and that purpose boils down to one word: Love. God is love (1 John 4:8, 16), and his Son Jesus Christ entered this world to defeat death, remove our sin, and save us for eternal communion amid God’s love.
I appreciate science exploring how God does things, but am thankful beyond expression that faith is all we need to know why.
Walters (www.believerbob.blogspot.com, email rlwcom@aol.com) thinks science is God’s way of having us look for Him in Creation. Too often we think we see ourselves instead.
Considering that Creation is among the hottest of contemporary, fightin’-words, flash-point topics in church, theological, political, scientific, cosmological, educational, philosophical and biblical circles, this could be a dangerous discussion.
However the intention here is to simply present a few non-combative thoughts on the how and why of Creation, not challenge anyone’s Christianity or second-guess God.
Neither is this an attempt to prove the “six day” teaching nor to bash evolution, but we will put the Bible in its rightful and true spot as God’s voice.
The truths we’re working with are that God exists, God is eternal and uncreated, God is the creator of all things, God had a reason for creating all things, God is omniscient (knows all) and omnipotent (can do all), and the Bible is what it says it is.
Let’s also clearly state that the world is real, we are real, we are alive, we are aware, and what we do matters. Plus, it is reliably entrenched in our human brains to ask how and why Creation happened, and how and why we are here.
Science and Philosophy (God created them, too) ask how and why all the time.
Science asks: How do things happen? What are the predictable and repeatable results? What are the facts?
Philosophy asks: Why am I here? Why are we here? What is truth? What is our purpose?
The scientific “How” leads to facts: we find out how God made things, leading to knowledge. And then, philosophically asking “Why” God made things leads to discovery of God’s purpose, leading to relationship and faith.
The Bible reveals little of “how” God created us, but is overwhelmingly packed with “why.” From Adam and Eve to Abraham to Moses to the Prophets to Jesus Christ to Paul, God describes His relationship with mankind, and the relationship He wants us to have with each other.
God’s purpose for Creation becomes clear as our faith grows, and that purpose boils down to one word: Love. God is love (1 John 4:8, 16), and his Son Jesus Christ entered this world to defeat death, remove our sin, and save us for eternal communion amid God’s love.
I appreciate science exploring how God does things, but am thankful beyond expression that faith is all we need to know why.
Walters (www.believerbob.blogspot.com, email rlwcom@aol.com) thinks science is God’s way of having us look for Him in Creation. Too often we think we see ourselves instead.
Family Camp - 1 Day Away
A few last minute reminders:
1. If you signed up for a food or beverage please don't forget.
2. If you are wanting to do any fishing you will need a License. You can print one off the us.gov website for $7.00.
3. We will be meeting at the church at 4:30 pm tomorrow to pack supplies and luggage in our three trucks. (Thank you Tim, Jim and Larry).
God is so good and making it all work out that so many people could go this year. I am excited to see the friendships and growth among us this year.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact Heather Browning at (317)503-6471.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Cool Website
http://www.myhero.com/go/hero.asp?hero=Corrie_Ten_Boom
“If God sends us on strong paths, we are provided strong shoes.” Corrie TenBoom quotes
Submitted by Annette VanWinkle
Burned Biscuit
When I was a kid, my mom liked to make breakfast food for dinner every now
and then. And I remember one night in particular when she had made breakfast
after a long, hard day at work.*
*On that evening so long ago, my mom placed a plate of eggs, sausage and
extremely burned biscuits in front of my dad. I remember waiting to see if
anyone noticed! Yet all my dad did was reach for his biscuit, smile at my
mom and ask me how my day was at school. I don't remember what I told him
that night, but I do remember watching him smear butter and jelly on that
biscuit and eat every bite!**
When I got up from the table that evening, I remember hearing my mom
apologize to my dad for burning the biscuits. And I'll never forget what he
said: "Honey, I love burned biscuits."
Later that night, I went to kiss Daddy good night and I asked him if he
really liked his biscuits burned. He wrapped me in his arms and said, "Your
Momma put in a hard day at work today and she's real tired. And besides - a
little burnt biscuit never hurt anyone!"
Life is full of imperfect things....and imperfect people. I'm not the best
at hardly anything, and I forget birthdays and anniversaries just like
everyone else. But what I've learned over the years is that learning to
accept each others faults - and choosing to celebrate each others
differences - is one of the most important keys to creating a healthy,
growing, and lasting relationship.
And that's my prayer for you today. That you will learn to take the good,
the bad, and the ugly parts of your life and lay them at the feet of God.
Because in the end, He's the only One who will be able to give you a
relationship where a burnt biscuit isn't a deal-breaker!
We could extend this to any relationship. In fact, understanding is the base
of any relationship, be it a husband-wife or parent-child or friendship!
**"Don't put the key to your happiness in someone else's pocket - keep it in
your own."**
**God Bless You..... Now, and Always....**
So Please pass me a biscuit, and yes, the burnt one will do just
fine.!.!.!.!
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Native American Ten Commandments
Native American Ten Commandments
1. Treat the Earth and all that dwell therein with respect
2. Remain close to the Great Spirit
3. Show great respect for your fellow beings
4. Work together for the benefit of all Mankind
5. Give assistance and kindness wherever needed
6. Do what you know to be right
7. Look after the well-being of Mind and Body
8. Dedicate a share of your efforts to the greater Good
9. Be truthful and honest at all times
10. Take full responsibility for your actions
Found this to be very interesting and just thought I would share.
Posted by Pat
1. Treat the Earth and all that dwell therein with respect
2. Remain close to the Great Spirit
3. Show great respect for your fellow beings
4. Work together for the benefit of all Mankind
5. Give assistance and kindness wherever needed
6. Do what you know to be right
7. Look after the well-being of Mind and Body
8. Dedicate a share of your efforts to the greater Good
9. Be truthful and honest at all times
10. Take full responsibility for your actions
Found this to be very interesting and just thought I would share.
Posted by Pat
Monday, September 20, 2010
Elissa & Michaela
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Next Sunday
Just wanted to let all of you know that there will be NO Adult Sunday School Class since I will be gone along with Will who would normally fill in for me. We will resume our study of the Promise Driven Life on Sunday morning, October 3rd at 9:30.
Friday, September 17, 2010
From Jaxon
Dear Hinkle Creek Friends,
I miss all of you. I miss the Sunday's that I spent with my Grandma Pat and Grandpa Fred so that I knew I would be able to make it to church, or at the least Bible Study. I miss being around all of my good friends; the ones my age and the ones older than I. In other words, I miss everyone. I miss hearing the sermons on Sunday morning. I miss our worship service, hearing us all sing untill our lungs busted. I miss hearing Geneva's whistling. I miss hearing Paulette sing so sweetly. I miss hearing Jeff sing oh so loudly. I miss the Bible Studies. I miss having fellowship with all of you durring the week. I miss having the extra support by you all. I miss knowing that when I had a hard time, I atleast had the prayers of my church family. I miss knowing that someone, unrelated, cared for me. I miss having the love from all of you, and being able to return that love face-to-face on Sunday morning. I miss it all. I just want all of you to know that I am still praying that one of these days I will be able to return to my church, Hinkle Creek Friends, on a regular basis. I continue to think of all of you and worry about all of you. I am still a Christian, atleast from what I can tell. I often wander if I am still a Christian in the eyes of teh Church of God. I havent been in a church for quite some time. I often catch myslef slipping into the ways of the Public School. Believe me, it is extremely hard being a Christian in a Public School. There are all kinds of cruel rumors that cirle all around about the most horrible things. You woldn't believ the things that have been said to me. I have been threatend, humiliated, and criticised all because of my Faith in Jesus. I recently did a survey at Tipton and found that only 2 out of every 5 students admits to have Faith in Jesus. That is horrible. Worst of all, in my oppinion, I am getting sucked deeper and deeper every day. PLease pray for me. Also, I would liek to appologize. The last month or so in summer when I didn't come to church, it wasnt because I couldn't make it, but it was because I felt some kind of barrier between me and all of you. I am sorry if I have done anything wrong offend or hurt any of you at all. So, when I first felt that I decided to avoid church. However, now that I am gone, I realize how important that church actually was to me. I pray everyday that God will allow me to return. I have cried often because I feel all alone. I don't live in a "Christian" home, so I am always slipping and comming back up again to God. but it gets harder and harder each time and Hinkle was my refuge. I miss you all so very much. I have often thought, "what have I done to deserve loosing my best friends and family in the whole world?" I feel like I have done this to myself. So, please pray that I will be able to return. Please pray that I will not slip but rather be stronger in His truth. I am crying as I write this letter, so please call on God! I love all of you with every bit of my heart.
Love,
Jaxon McKinley
I miss all of you. I miss the Sunday's that I spent with my Grandma Pat and Grandpa Fred so that I knew I would be able to make it to church, or at the least Bible Study. I miss being around all of my good friends; the ones my age and the ones older than I. In other words, I miss everyone. I miss hearing the sermons on Sunday morning. I miss our worship service, hearing us all sing untill our lungs busted. I miss hearing Geneva's whistling. I miss hearing Paulette sing so sweetly. I miss hearing Jeff sing oh so loudly. I miss the Bible Studies. I miss having fellowship with all of you durring the week. I miss having the extra support by you all. I miss knowing that when I had a hard time, I atleast had the prayers of my church family. I miss knowing that someone, unrelated, cared for me. I miss having the love from all of you, and being able to return that love face-to-face on Sunday morning. I miss it all. I just want all of you to know that I am still praying that one of these days I will be able to return to my church, Hinkle Creek Friends, on a regular basis. I continue to think of all of you and worry about all of you. I am still a Christian, atleast from what I can tell. I often wander if I am still a Christian in the eyes of teh Church of God. I havent been in a church for quite some time. I often catch myslef slipping into the ways of the Public School. Believe me, it is extremely hard being a Christian in a Public School. There are all kinds of cruel rumors that cirle all around about the most horrible things. You woldn't believ the things that have been said to me. I have been threatend, humiliated, and criticised all because of my Faith in Jesus. I recently did a survey at Tipton and found that only 2 out of every 5 students admits to have Faith in Jesus. That is horrible. Worst of all, in my oppinion, I am getting sucked deeper and deeper every day. PLease pray for me. Also, I would liek to appologize. The last month or so in summer when I didn't come to church, it wasnt because I couldn't make it, but it was because I felt some kind of barrier between me and all of you. I am sorry if I have done anything wrong offend or hurt any of you at all. So, when I first felt that I decided to avoid church. However, now that I am gone, I realize how important that church actually was to me. I pray everyday that God will allow me to return. I have cried often because I feel all alone. I don't live in a "Christian" home, so I am always slipping and comming back up again to God. but it gets harder and harder each time and Hinkle was my refuge. I miss you all so very much. I have often thought, "what have I done to deserve loosing my best friends and family in the whole world?" I feel like I have done this to myself. So, please pray that I will be able to return. Please pray that I will not slip but rather be stronger in His truth. I am crying as I write this letter, so please call on God! I love all of you with every bit of my heart.
Love,
Jaxon McKinley
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Something to think about
Have you ever lost something really important? Have you ever gotten mad because you can't find it and you search and search and search? After you get so upset, you realize you were holding it all along. It's strange how that happens. How many times do you search for happiness and a place where you feel you have a purpose? How many times do you grab anything you can get a hold of just to satisfy you for a month? There have been wise people step back and realize what they are doing. All along they never realized that God was holding onto them. They looked and looked and looked for that sense of security, and they came to realize..... ''Hey, He's holding onto me; that's what I was looking for!!'' Don't just look at what you found; use it! We have to be committed. We are nothing without God. Sure, you may think you can make it on your own...well, good luck. We are at our strongest when we cling to God. Don't rely on your own wits, for you can't take those with you when you die, but you can go live with God when you die. God has already found you; you just have to find Him.
John 14:25
"These things I have spoken to you while being present with you.
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 things that I said to you. Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you;not as the world gives do I give to you.
Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. You have heard Me say to you, "I am going away and coming back to you.If you loved Me, you would rejoice because I said, "I am going to the Father,' for My Father is greater than I.
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 things that I said to you. Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you;not as the world gives do I give to you.
Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. You have heard Me say to you, "I am going away and coming back to you.If you loved Me, you would rejoice because I said, "I am going to the Father,' for My Father is greater than I.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Ephesians 4:31-32
“Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.”
Monday, September 13, 2010
My Weeping Willow Tree
Weeping willow tree
Come and save me
From falling into the dark
Leave me your peaceful mark
Weeping willow tree
Come and set me free
So that I can fly away tonight
And no longer have to fight
Weeping will tree
Be my eyes and let me see
All the things that I might miss
And experience all this happiness
Weeping willow tree
Come away with me
You can be the strength I need
And follow the path that will lead
Weeping will tree
Hear my quiet, quiet plea
I'd be grateful if you'd cleansed my soul
And fill me up so that I am full
Weeping willow tree
Lift me up so that I can see
The harsh world from the sky
And when it's time I'll say good bye
Weeping willow tree
You make it possible for me to be
The strongest person that you'll see
So thank you for always being with me
Let's cry tonight and let it out
Let's spill our secrets, scream and shout
Try not to stay in one place too long
The weeping willow tree will keep us strong
Come and save me
From falling into the dark
Leave me your peaceful mark
Weeping willow tree
Come and set me free
So that I can fly away tonight
And no longer have to fight
Weeping will tree
Be my eyes and let me see
All the things that I might miss
And experience all this happiness
Weeping willow tree
Come away with me
You can be the strength I need
And follow the path that will lead
Weeping will tree
Hear my quiet, quiet plea
I'd be grateful if you'd cleansed my soul
And fill me up so that I am full
Weeping willow tree
Lift me up so that I can see
The harsh world from the sky
And when it's time I'll say good bye
Weeping willow tree
You make it possible for me to be
The strongest person that you'll see
So thank you for always being with me
Let's cry tonight and let it out
Let's spill our secrets, scream and shout
Try not to stay in one place too long
The weeping willow tree will keep us strong
The flowers kissed the shoes that Jesus wore
by Unknown
I'm thinking back today to a time so far away,
When the Master taught the people by the shore;
How the little sparrow sang and the children spoke His name,
And the flowers kissed the shoes that Jesus wore.
He walked those dusty roads with a dozen thirsty souls;
And he followed destiny to Calvary;
How the little olive trees wept to see His miseries,
And the flowers kissed the shoes that Jesus wore.
Oh they gathered there to see on the banks of Galilee,
They heard the message brought from Heaven's door;
And the blind and the beggar too heard His words of hope so true,
And the flowers kissed the shoes that Jesus wore.
Brother you can't understand the meaning of this man,
And you'll never find what you've been looking for;
Till you step down from your throne and you trust in Him alone,
And you're walking in the shoes that Jesus wore.
Oh they gathered there to see on the banks of Galilee,
They heard the message brought from Heaven's door;
And the blind and the beggar too heard His words of hope so true,
And the flowers kissed the shoes that Jesus wore.
Oh they gathered there to see on the banks of Galilee,
They heard the message brought from Heaven's door;
And the blind and the beggar too heard His words of hope so true,
When the flowers kissed the shoes that Jesus wore.
I'm thinking back today to a time so far away,
When the Master taught the people by the shore;
How the little sparrow sang and the children spoke His name,
And the flowers kissed the shoes that Jesus wore.
He walked those dusty roads with a dozen thirsty souls;
And he followed destiny to Calvary;
How the little olive trees wept to see His miseries,
And the flowers kissed the shoes that Jesus wore.
Oh they gathered there to see on the banks of Galilee,
They heard the message brought from Heaven's door;
And the blind and the beggar too heard His words of hope so true,
And the flowers kissed the shoes that Jesus wore.
Brother you can't understand the meaning of this man,
And you'll never find what you've been looking for;
Till you step down from your throne and you trust in Him alone,
And you're walking in the shoes that Jesus wore.
Oh they gathered there to see on the banks of Galilee,
They heard the message brought from Heaven's door;
And the blind and the beggar too heard His words of hope so true,
And the flowers kissed the shoes that Jesus wore.
Oh they gathered there to see on the banks of Galilee,
They heard the message brought from Heaven's door;
And the blind and the beggar too heard His words of hope so true,
When the flowers kissed the shoes that Jesus wore.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Your Prayers are VERY MUCH needed
We received word today that the precious baby above named Isaac, suddenly passed away. This is the baby that was born here in Indiana during Bobby and Nancy's wedding and were staying with Mike and Kelly. They live in Illinois and Kelly is with them during this tragic time. Isaac was Mike and Kelly's Godchild. Let's remember this family in our prayers as I know their hearts must be broken.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Memorable Moment
Kelly had challenged us to write something that we don't want to forget that God has done in our lives. During my time in ministry, there have been so many that I could almost write a book, but there is one thing that stands out and I will NEVER forget it as it felt like one of the closest encounters with God I've ever had. When we served in Oklahoma, an older gentleman came to our door saying that he and his son was living in a rented house with no heat, but it did have a wood stove. He wondered if anyone had any spare wood so they could stay warm. I went to visit this house and found it like he said. Hardly any furniture, but there was a kitchen table with some dried orange peels in the middle. He said they didn't have money for food and someone had given them an orange and they were both so hungry. He saved the orange peels and had two piles of them. One for him and one for his son. When they got hungry, the would pick up an orange peel and suck on it to get the taste of something in their mouth. I looked in his cabinets and there was no food. So I went back to the Church Family and explained the situation and they rallied and bought groceries and one man delivered two ricks of wood! When I knocked on the door and presented him with all of the food - he was just shocked and overwhelmed with emotion. His name (I'll never forget) was Mr. LeMasters. I went back a couple of days later to check on him and his son and found no one there. The wood was still stacked by the back door, but no one was at home. A man walked up and asked me if I was interested in renting the house. I told him someone already lived there and I had brought him food and the wood had come from our church. He said - "well, I own this house and no one has lived in it for a long time!!!!!" I told him about Mr. LeMasters and his situation and he said "I repeat - no one has lived in this house for a long time!" He let me in and there I found the house empty and the food was all gone and no furniture!!!! I will always believe that this man was only for my eyes to see and I believe he was an Angel sent to test me and my congregation. No one else had ever seen this man but me!!! I still get chills when I think of that encounter. It was truly life changing. The Scriptures say: "Be careful that you entertain Angels unawares". I truly believe that Scripture with all of my heart!
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Youth Group Meeting Rescheduled
Attention all FOUND members: Our meeting has been moved to NEXT Thursday, Sept. 16th.
Quaker Haven Family Camp
September 24-26
Time is coming again. We are down to 14 days! If you are still interested we have a couple of spaces left and you can turn in your payment in Sunday with any other late payers (Yes you know who you are and please get it in ASAP) Please give to Trish Butcher so we can finalize payment.We will be having lots of Food, Fun, Fellowship!
Worship, Activities, Bon Fires, Music, Laughter can be counted in as well. This is a great opportunity to connect and get to know your family and Hinkle Creek Friends.
We will be meeting at the Hinkle Creek Church at 4:30 p.m. to collect items ( we have three trucks) and head out. Feel free to join the group and ride along.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
From David Phelps Blog...
Below is a post I copied and pasted from David Phelps Blog and I thought we might try it too!
As you go through the next few days, keep your eyes open for a moment you want to remember—maybe it’s with your husband or wife, your children, co-worker, friend, or maybe someone you don’t know at all. Then I want you to record it on the forum post, “Something I might have missed had I not been looking for it”. It could be something for which you are thankful, something you find humorous, touching, uplifting or even heart-breaking--just something that made you “feel” that you don’t want to forget. When I can slow down and do this, it never fails to make me more aware of God’s hand all around me, and in turn I am more secure, grounded and thankful. I hope you have a good time with this.
While proofreading this, Lori just told me she read a great book recently that is based around this general theme. It is called The Noticer by Andy Andrews. I love his writing. I haven’t gotten to it in my stack of books awaiting me but she says it is WONDERFUL and would highly recommend it! Whether you read the book or not please become a noticer of the things around you and report back to us on the forum. Looking forward to reading your observations and different takes on life around you.
~Kelly
David Wrote:
As you go through the next few days, keep your eyes open for a moment you want to remember—maybe it’s with your husband or wife, your children, co-worker, friend, or maybe someone you don’t know at all. Then I want you to record it on the forum post, “Something I might have missed had I not been looking for it”. It could be something for which you are thankful, something you find humorous, touching, uplifting or even heart-breaking--just something that made you “feel” that you don’t want to forget. When I can slow down and do this, it never fails to make me more aware of God’s hand all around me, and in turn I am more secure, grounded and thankful. I hope you have a good time with this.
While proofreading this, Lori just told me she read a great book recently that is based around this general theme. It is called The Noticer by Andy Andrews. I love his writing. I haven’t gotten to it in my stack of books awaiting me but she says it is WONDERFUL and would highly recommend it! Whether you read the book or not please become a noticer of the things around you and report back to us on the forum. Looking forward to reading your observations and different takes on life around you.
So, please, sometime this week, leave a post of a special moment you want to remember. I can't wait to hear what kinds of beautiful things God is doing in every ones lives.
~Kelly
Last Night
We had such a wonderful evening at Fred and Pat Martz home for the Bible Study. It was so beautiful and peaceful there at their farm. The children enjoyed exploring and seeing the goats, little ponies, and all the chickens that just melted into our group while we ate and studied the Word! Thank you Fred and Pat for hosting us! It was great! Hope we can come back again soon!
Next week, we will have a weiner roast at our house and hope you can all come!
Next week, we will have a weiner roast at our house and hope you can all come!
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Asking for Prayer
I received word that 3 people have passed away that some of you know and I wanted to ask that you remember their families in prayer. Mary Earl was a long time member of Hinkle Creek Friends and used to take care of the Cemetery books for years. There will be no funeral but there will be a graveside service tomorrow morning at West Grove Cemetery. I received a call this morning that Hesper Kinnaman passed away and is a current member of Hinkle Creek Friends. She has been in the nursing home for the last several years. I will be having her funeral once plans are finalized. Then, I received a call that my Aunt passed away this morning which is my Father's only living sister. We don't know her arrangements either at this time, but we are waiting on that information in the event we need to get my Dad back from Canada quickly. He is scheduled to fly in this Thursday. I went down for my dental appointment when all of these calls came in and I was stuck in a dentist chair and couldn't respond! I went out to my truck and the battery was dead, so with the help of a Jamacian Pastor I was able to jump it and get home. Now I need to go out a buy a battery. Sure can't be without my truck this week! I'm trying not to get stressed! LOL!
Colossians 3:12-17
12Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Does Anyone Know????
Does anyone know how to get in touch with Debby Langolf? I need to notify her about the location of Bible Study tonight and I don't have their phone number. If you know how to contact her, please let her know that the Bible Study will be held at the home of Fred and Pat Martz this evening. If you have a contact number, please email it to my personally and I'll call her. Thank you!
Monday, September 6, 2010
The Way of a Tree
You can’t contain me within these walls
Time is a waste, it always stalls
Barricades do me no good
I will always expand beyond what I should
I will grow to unimaginable heights
I will win and lose many fights
Try not to hover over me
So that I can view what I want to see
I want to help the world heal
To spread true emotions so we can all feel
I want to save those that are in need
I want to be able to plant my seed
Many times will I fail
But from my heart I’ll leave a trail
It will lead to something you lack
And after so long I will grow back
You can knock me down if you want
You can sit there and tease or taunt
But through everything I will be brave
Doing what I can for those that I save
I will show people what I can do
And no matter what I will pull through
Becoming even stronger than before
From all of the lessons that I have in store
My roots are planted in the ground
My words come with a peaceful sound
You can love me or hate me if you’d like
But either way, my love will strike
Time is a waste, it always stalls
Barricades do me no good
I will always expand beyond what I should
I will grow to unimaginable heights
I will win and lose many fights
Try not to hover over me
So that I can view what I want to see
I want to help the world heal
To spread true emotions so we can all feel
I want to save those that are in need
I want to be able to plant my seed
Many times will I fail
But from my heart I’ll leave a trail
It will lead to something you lack
And after so long I will grow back
You can knock me down if you want
You can sit there and tease or taunt
But through everything I will be brave
Doing what I can for those that I save
I will show people what I can do
And no matter what I will pull through
Becoming even stronger than before
From all of the lessons that I have in store
My roots are planted in the ground
My words come with a peaceful sound
You can love me or hate me if you’d like
But either way, my love will strike
Sunday, September 5, 2010
BIBLE STUDY
There has been a change in plans for location for the Bible Study on Tuesday night. Pat and Fred Martz have come forward and would like to host our Bible Study this week at their home!!! They will never know how much Paulette and I appreciate that offer as we have a busy schedule this week! If you have questions as to how to get to their home, please contact either me or Pat for directions. We are looking so forward to going there on the Farm!!! Thank you Pat for your gracious offer!
Paulette is bringing sloppy joes and a macaroni & cheese casserole. I will bring iced tea (both sweet and unsweet). So anything you would like to add to that would be appreciated! PLEASE PASS THE WORD ABOUT THIS CHANGE IN LOCATION!
Paulette is bringing sloppy joes and a macaroni & cheese casserole. I will bring iced tea (both sweet and unsweet). So anything you would like to add to that would be appreciated! PLEASE PASS THE WORD ABOUT THIS CHANGE IN LOCATION!
Thursday, September 2, 2010
PIANO
Just wanted to let you know that the piano is now safely moved and is sitting in our new location waiting to be played this Sunday! It was quite a challenge for the men to get it up those steps, but with the help of the custodian of the building, they finally got it up and put all back together again! It sounds beautiful in that large Sanctuary with the high ceilings. Almost sounds like a different piano! So, we are official moved and everything in place. What a big relief to have that behind us! Had the opportunity to meet some new people yesterday and all three I talked with are very interested in worshipping with us!! Who knows - maybe we will one day leave Cicero and bring with us more to Hinkle then we left with!! I'm excited about the "Plan" God has in mind for us!! See you all Sunday!!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
WE'RE MOVED!!!!!!
Good morning everyone! Well, with the great help of our Bible Study group - they worked hard last evening and brought everything we need up to the new location! Thank goodness for Roscoe Gray and his trailer & strong muscles - the pulpit, clerk's table and chairs, entryway table and guest book table along with all of the hymnals are all in place now. Even the nursery items and children's classroom essentials are in place! A HUGE thanks to Kelly, Debbie, Cynthia, Brooke, Lance, Alex, Lance, Tim, Will, Shirley, Paulette, and myself - it's all done!!!! The Church has been cleaned and the only thing left to do is moving the piano TODAY!! The sanctuary looks nice and very welcoming and I think you will all feel right at home! Since there was no place to store the cross without possible damage at Hinkle, it was decided to bring it along too. It just didn't look right in the Sanctuary no matter where we put it, so it is sitting in the entryway of the new Church to greet you when you come in the doors and looks really nice there! I was just so pleased with the many hands that made all of this possible. These folks worked really hard! What a load off of my mind! I went up to the intersection of Cammack Rd. and 216th Street yesterday and retrieved the sign pointing to Hinkle and had to rework it and re-paint it, and it is now in the yard of the new Church directing you to our new location. The piano will be moved sometime between 2-5 today and I will receive our own keys at that time. Thank you for all of your prayers during this transition time and all of the support from everyone. I can't wait until you see it on Sunday! We will certainly have a special service Sunday celebrating the great things God has done for our Congregation.
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