This is from Brian and Kaneesha Gatts. They want to express their deep gratitude to all of the support in prayer and many other ways that people have reached out to us during this great loss. You have no idea what that means to us in so many ways. We will keep you informed as things progress on our situation.
Brian and Kaneesha
Friday, December 31, 2010
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
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.
What survived
When Brian and Kaneesha's home caught fire, their bedroom was completely destroyed along with the outside wall, all furniture and their clothes. Sitting next to the bed on a night stand was this Bible and was all that survived in that room. Amazing!
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
We desperately need your prayers
I wanted to let you all know that our daughter Kaneesha and her husband Brian lost their home in a fire this evening. They were in town shopping and when they came home there were fire trucks everywhere and their home totally engulfed in flames. They lost everything except the clothes on their backs. Their precious cats lost their lives in the fire as well. They are going to sleep at our home until we figure out things with their insurance company to provide them temporary housing. So, we really need your prayers to help us all get through this. They are just devasted and in shock. Our hearts are broken for them.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Thank-you!
Thank you to everyone who came to Church today. I realize that many of you had family obligations being the Christmas weekend and we were low on numbers today, but I was grateful for each person who came to Worship the Lord in Spirit and Truth! A special thank you to Pat Martz for reading to us what she wrote and how touching it was and timely! Also, I want to thank Jeff VanWinkle for singing and bringing that message to me personally through song to remind me of my calling. I just want you to know when you are not there, you are really missed! I love it when all of our Church Family comes together. We have something special that the Lord has created. Each of you are SO important to the ministry and success of Hinkle Creek Friends!
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Friday, December 24, 2010
MERRY CHRISTMAS
Paulette and I would like to wish all of you a wonderful Christmas Day and we send all of our love with this post praying that you all enjoy each other as you gather together during this special time to remember Jesus who came into the world to bring us Salvation and Eternal Life! We look forward to seeing you all on Sunday!
God Bless!
Bob & Paulette
God Bless!
Bob & Paulette
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Appreciate Your Prayers
On September 7th, my Dad's last sister passed away and it was a sad time. Yesterday morning, her husband (my uncle) passed away with a series of heart attacks. This is a sad time for families to experience death, so I'd just like to ask for your prayers to uplift his family as they go through Christmas not being able to have his funeral until afterwards. It is surely a tough time for them. My Dad is the last one left of that generation of his family and I think it is really bothering him. He could use your prayers as well.
We also received word that my nephew (my brother's next to the youngest) is experiencing seizures and they cannot find out what's causing it. He went for a battery of tests yesterday and the doctor made a comment that he was concerned about some deterioration going on in his brain, but stopped short of saying anything else. We are VERY concerned for Brian as he is newly married and has a whole life ahead of him. We would appreciate prayers for him as well.
Last of all - MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OF YOU!!!! Thank you so much for your loving support to us as we humbly serve the Lord and you at Hinkle Creek Friends. We love you all so much!
We also received word that my nephew (my brother's next to the youngest) is experiencing seizures and they cannot find out what's causing it. He went for a battery of tests yesterday and the doctor made a comment that he was concerned about some deterioration going on in his brain, but stopped short of saying anything else. We are VERY concerned for Brian as he is newly married and has a whole life ahead of him. We would appreciate prayers for him as well.
Last of all - MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OF YOU!!!! Thank you so much for your loving support to us as we humbly serve the Lord and you at Hinkle Creek Friends. We love you all so much!
Monday, December 20, 2010
BIBLE STUDY CHANGE
After much discussion last evening at the Christmas Party and finding out that several people have a lot of "busyness" during the Holidays, it was decided to hold off on Bible Study and start fresh on January 4th. So, there will be NO BIBLE STUDY this tomorrow or next week. Please pass the word. I pray that all of you will have wonderful Christmas Season and a Blessed New Year!
Bob
Bob
Friday, December 17, 2010
Its About the Cross
It's not just about the manger
Where the baby lay
It's not all about the angels
Who sang for him that day
It's not just about the shepherds
Or the bright and shining star
It's not all about the wisemen
Who travelled from afar
Chorus:
It's about the cross
It's about my sin
It's about how Jesus came to be born once
So that we could be born again
It's about the stone
That was rolled away
So that you and I could have real life someday
It's about the cross
It's about the cross
Verse 2:
It's not just about the presents
Underneath the tree
It's not all about the feeling
That the season brings to me
It's not just about coming home
To be with those you love
It's not all about the beauty
In the snow I'm dreaming of
Repeat Chorus
Bridge:
The beginning of the story is wonderful and great
But it's the ending that can save you and that's why we celebrate
It's about the cross
It's about my sin
It's about how Jesus came to be born once
So that we could be born again
It's about God's love
Nailed to a tree
It's about every drop of blood that flowed from Him when it should have been me
It's about the stone
That was rolled away
So that you and I could have real life someday
So that you and I could have real life someday
It's about the cross
It's about the cross
Where the baby lay
It's not all about the angels
Who sang for him that day
It's not just about the shepherds
Or the bright and shining star
It's not all about the wisemen
Who travelled from afar
Chorus:
It's about the cross
It's about my sin
It's about how Jesus came to be born once
So that we could be born again
It's about the stone
That was rolled away
So that you and I could have real life someday
It's about the cross
It's about the cross
Verse 2:
It's not just about the presents
Underneath the tree
It's not all about the feeling
That the season brings to me
It's not just about coming home
To be with those you love
It's not all about the beauty
In the snow I'm dreaming of
Repeat Chorus
Bridge:
The beginning of the story is wonderful and great
But it's the ending that can save you and that's why we celebrate
It's about the cross
It's about my sin
It's about how Jesus came to be born once
So that we could be born again
It's about God's love
Nailed to a tree
It's about every drop of blood that flowed from Him when it should have been me
It's about the stone
That was rolled away
So that you and I could have real life someday
So that you and I could have real life someday
It's about the cross
It's about the cross
HINKLE CREEK CHRISTMAS PARTY!!!!!!!
Debby and Connie Langolf are hosting a Christmas Party at their home located at 170 E. Jackson St., Cicero this Sunday at 5:00 p.m.. We are all asked to bring a covered dish and a $5.00 gift for a fun exchange. Heather is bringing ham and mac 'n cheese. Paulette is still deciding what she will bring, but if you know, you might post it here in the response so Debby can have an idea of what food is coming. Their home is two houses east of the Methodist Church in Cicero on the north side of the street. EVERYONE is invited to come. I realize we are having Monthly Meeting after Church this Sunday, but it will be good to get together and enjoy this time together in a different atmosphere. Since we can't have a candlelight service and Jesus Birthday party this year because of the Church repairs, we thought this was a good way for us all to get together. We really appreciate Debby and Connie opening their home for this event!
'Twas the night before Christmas & out on the ranch
The pond was froze over & so was the branch.
The snow was piled up belly-deep to a mule.
The kids were all home on vacation from school,
And happier young folks you never did see-
Just all sprawled around a-watchin' TV.
Then suddenly, sometime around 8 o'clock,
There came a surprise that gave them a shock!
The power went off, the TV went dead!
When Grandpa came in from out in the shed
With an armload of wood, the house was all dark.
"Just what I expected," they heard him remark.
"Them power line wires must be down from the snow.
Seems sorter like times on the ranch long ago."
"I'll hunt up some candles," said Mom. "With their light,
And the fireplace, I reckon we'll make out all right."
The teen-agers all seemed enveloped in gloom.
Then Grandpa came back from a trip to his room,
Uncased his old fiddle & started to play
That old Christmas song about bells on a sleigh.
Mom started to sing, & 1st thing they knew
Both Pop & the kids were all singing it, too.
They sang Christmas carols, they sang "Holy Night,"
Their eyes all a-shine in the ruddy firelight.
They played some charades Mom recalled from her youth,
And Pop read a passage from God's Book of Truth.
They stayed up till midnight-and, would you believe,
The youngsters agreed 'twas a fine Christmas Eve.
Grandpa rose early, some time before dawn;
And when the kids wakened, the power was on..
"The power company sure got the line repaired quick,"
Said Grandpa - & no one suspected his trick.
Last night, for the sake of some old-fashioned fun,
He had pulled the main switch - the old Son-of-a-Gun!
My friend Sarah knows this family
(Dec. 13) -- St. Nick and Christmas cards from around the world are fulfilling the final wishes of Matthew Michael Butman of Wylie, Texas.
"I have Leigh's Disease," writes Matthew, 11. Like other 'tweens, Matt uses a Facebook page to keep track of his buddies. But Matt also uses his Facebook page to explain the disease that's killing him, the disease that keeps him in bed, unable to walk or even to speak.
"To make it easy to understand, it's a very rare disease that affects the [cell's] ability to make energy. Once a cell is affected, it dies. There are also brain lesions. Unfortunately it is terminal and there is no treatment or cure. ... My parents make sure I'm comfortable and have no pain."
Matthew's parents have made sure he's more than comfortable, resting in a bedroom that's all boy, and that manages to exude cheeriness despite being in the hospital. Matthew's sisters (a brother, Trey, died before Matthew was born of a rare neurological disorder) and friends help increase the cheer factor.
Despite his dire condition, Matthew manages to project a positive spirit, evinced by his current goals: meet Santa and amass a monumental amount of cards from around the world.
"And they have come in like crazy," Matthew's mom Gianna told WFAA. "My husband brings a stack of them every day from our P.O. box," wherein a stack equals 35 to 80 cards, from around the world. After Matthew sees them, the cards are strung up around the room, creating a Christmas chain of global good tidings.
To cap off his wish quest, Matthew met a Texas-drawling Santa Claus last week. While most kids present Santa with a list of must-haves, Matthew turned the tables, presenting Santa with a sack-full of gifts for needy children.
Cards for Matthew can be addressed to Matthew Mickelson Butman, PO Box 1865, Wylie, TX, 75089.
"I have Leigh's Disease," writes Matthew, 11. Like other 'tweens, Matt uses a Facebook page to keep track of his buddies. But Matt also uses his Facebook page to explain the disease that's killing him, the disease that keeps him in bed, unable to walk or even to speak.
"To make it easy to understand, it's a very rare disease that affects the [cell's] ability to make energy. Once a cell is affected, it dies. There are also brain lesions. Unfortunately it is terminal and there is no treatment or cure. ... My parents make sure I'm comfortable and have no pain."
Matthew's parents have made sure he's more than comfortable, resting in a bedroom that's all boy, and that manages to exude cheeriness despite being in the hospital. Matthew's sisters (a brother, Trey, died before Matthew was born of a rare neurological disorder) and friends help increase the cheer factor.
Despite his dire condition, Matthew manages to project a positive spirit, evinced by his current goals: meet Santa and amass a monumental amount of cards from around the world.
"And they have come in like crazy," Matthew's mom Gianna told WFAA. "My husband brings a stack of them every day from our P.O. box," wherein a stack equals 35 to 80 cards, from around the world. After Matthew sees them, the cards are strung up around the room, creating a Christmas chain of global good tidings.
To cap off his wish quest, Matthew met a Texas-drawling Santa Claus last week. While most kids present Santa with a list of must-haves, Matthew turned the tables, presenting Santa with a sack-full of gifts for needy children.
Cards for Matthew can be addressed to Matthew Mickelson Butman, PO Box 1865, Wylie, TX, 75089.
Opportunity
This I beheld, or dreamed it in a dream:--
There spread a cloud of dust along a plain;
And underneath the cloud, or in it, raged
A furious battle, and men yelled, and swords
Shocked upon swords and shields. A prince's banner
Wavered, then staggered backward, hemmed by foes.
A craven hung along the battle's edge,
And thought, "Had I a sword of keener steel--
That blue blade that the king's son bears, -- but this
Blunt thing--!" he snapped and flung it from his hand,
And lowering crept away and left the field.
Then came the king's son, wounded, sore bestead,
And weaponless, and saw the broken sword,
Hilt-buried in the dry and trodden sand,
And ran and snatched it, and with battle shout
Lifted afresh he hewed his enemy down,
And saved a great cause that heroic day.
by: Edward Rowland Sill
There spread a cloud of dust along a plain;
And underneath the cloud, or in it, raged
A furious battle, and men yelled, and swords
Shocked upon swords and shields. A prince's banner
Wavered, then staggered backward, hemmed by foes.
A craven hung along the battle's edge,
And thought, "Had I a sword of keener steel--
That blue blade that the king's son bears, -- but this
Blunt thing--!" he snapped and flung it from his hand,
And lowering crept away and left the field.
Then came the king's son, wounded, sore bestead,
And weaponless, and saw the broken sword,
Hilt-buried in the dry and trodden sand,
And ran and snatched it, and with battle shout
Lifted afresh he hewed his enemy down,
And saved a great cause that heroic day.
by: Edward Rowland Sill
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Standing, not sitting
This is something I wrote and posted on Facebook, and I felt like it should also go on here.
What is the church doing? Have we become lukewarm?? How many times have we sugar coated the truth because we don't wanna offend the little gay guy in the back row, or we don't want to chase the alcoholic away??? How are we fulfilling the Great Commission if we let the wicked trample the truth and tuck it away? Are we to let life run its course and let people fall to their doom, or are we going to be a Daniel? Christ offended people, but He saved just as many in the process. We live in the ''land of the free and the home of the brave'' for now....we lose our rights when we don't exercise them. We are shut up when we do shut up....think about that. What will YOU do?
What is the church doing? Have we become lukewarm?? How many times have we sugar coated the truth because we don't wanna offend the little gay guy in the back row, or we don't want to chase the alcoholic away??? How are we fulfilling the Great Commission if we let the wicked trample the truth and tuck it away? Are we to let life run its course and let people fall to their doom, or are we going to be a Daniel? Christ offended people, but He saved just as many in the process. We live in the ''land of the free and the home of the brave'' for now....we lose our rights when we don't exercise them. We are shut up when we do shut up....think about that. What will YOU do?
Handel's Messiah at Clowes Hall, Saturday, December 18
http://www.cloweshall.org/calendar/event.lasso?-KeyValue=1787&-Token.Action=
A Christmas Message
The following was sent to me by Bev Stewart in a forward and thought it was so good and wanted to share it with all of you.
Letter from Jesus about Christmas It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are taking My name out of the season. How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily understood by those of you who have been blessed with children of your own. I don't care what you call the day. If you want to celebrate My birth, just GET ALONG AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER. Now, having said that let Me go on. If it bothers you that the town in which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My birth, then just get rid of a couple of Santas and snowmen and put in a small Nativity scene on your own front lawn. If all My followers did that there wouldn't be any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many of them all around town. Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday tree, instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all trees. You can remember Me anytime you see any tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish: I actually spoke of that one in a teaching, explaining who I am in relation to you and what each of our tasks were. If you have forgotten that one, look up John 15: 1 - 8. If you want to give Me a present in remembrance of My birth here is my wish list. Choose something from it: 1. Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way My birthday is being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I know, they tell Me all the time. 2. Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them. 3. Instead of writing the President complaining about the wording on the cards his staff sent out this year, why don't you write and tell him that you'll be praying for him and his family this year. Then follow up... It will be nice hearing from you again. 4. Instead of giving your children a lot of gifts you can't afford and they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of My birth, and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and remind them that I love them. 5 Pick someone that has hurt you in the past and forgive him or her. 6. Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm smile; it could make the difference. 7. Instead of nit picking about what the retailer in your town calls the holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm smile and a kind word. Even if they aren't allowed to wish you a "Merry Christmas" that doesn't keep you from wishing them one. Then stop shopping there on Sunday. If the store didn't make so much money on that day they'd close and let their employees spend the day at home with their families 8. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary-- especially one who takes My love and Good News to those who have never heard My name. 9. Here's a good one. There are individuals and whole families in your town who not only will have no "Christmas" tree, but neither will they have any presents to give or receive. If you don't know them, buy some food and a few gifts and give them to the Salvation Army or some other charity which believes in Me and they will make the delivery for you. 10. Finally, if you want to make a statement about your belief in and loyalty to Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret that you wouldn't do in My presence. Let people know by your actions that you are one of mine. Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Just love Me and do what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest. Check out the list above and get to work; time is short. I'll help you, but the ball is now in your court. And do have a most blessed Christmas with all those whom you love and remember I LOVE YOU, JESUS
Letter from Jesus about Christmas It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are taking My name out of the season. How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily understood by those of you who have been blessed with children of your own. I don't care what you call the day. If you want to celebrate My birth, just GET ALONG AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER. Now, having said that let Me go on. If it bothers you that the town in which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My birth, then just get rid of a couple of Santas and snowmen and put in a small Nativity scene on your own front lawn. If all My followers did that there wouldn't be any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many of them all around town. Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday tree, instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all trees. You can remember Me anytime you see any tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish: I actually spoke of that one in a teaching, explaining who I am in relation to you and what each of our tasks were. If you have forgotten that one, look up John 15: 1 - 8. If you want to give Me a present in remembrance of My birth here is my wish list. Choose something from it: 1. Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way My birthday is being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I know, they tell Me all the time. 2. Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them. 3. Instead of writing the President complaining about the wording on the cards his staff sent out this year, why don't you write and tell him that you'll be praying for him and his family this year. Then follow up... It will be nice hearing from you again. 4. Instead of giving your children a lot of gifts you can't afford and they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of My birth, and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and remind them that I love them. 5 Pick someone that has hurt you in the past and forgive him or her. 6. Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm smile; it could make the difference. 7. Instead of nit picking about what the retailer in your town calls the holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm smile and a kind word. Even if they aren't allowed to wish you a "Merry Christmas" that doesn't keep you from wishing them one. Then stop shopping there on Sunday. If the store didn't make so much money on that day they'd close and let their employees spend the day at home with their families 8. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary-- especially one who takes My love and Good News to those who have never heard My name. 9. Here's a good one. There are individuals and whole families in your town who not only will have no "Christmas" tree, but neither will they have any presents to give or receive. If you don't know them, buy some food and a few gifts and give them to the Salvation Army or some other charity which believes in Me and they will make the delivery for you. 10. Finally, if you want to make a statement about your belief in and loyalty to Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret that you wouldn't do in My presence. Let people know by your actions that you are one of mine. Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Just love Me and do what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest. Check out the list above and get to work; time is short. I'll help you, but the ball is now in your court. And do have a most blessed Christmas with all those whom you love and remember I LOVE YOU, JESUS
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Made with Love
Teresa Reeves donated these items to Hinkle Creek Friends to be auctioned off for the building fund. They are handmade and will make perfect Christmas Gifts. We may have a silent auction in the spring with various donated items but since these are so perfect for the Holiday Season we thought we would at least give everyone a look at them now in case anyone is interested. These are such special pieces and if you are interested I will have them at church on Sunday so you can see them in person.
You can email me at
haemmertime1@aol.com
or call me at
317-691-2329
Thank You,
Kelly
This one is a blanket 44x76
You can email me at
haemmertime1@aol.com
or call me at
317-691-2329
Thank You,
Kelly
Wall Hanging donated to Hinkle to auction off for Building Fund
Wall Hanging donated to Hinkle to auction off for Building Fund
Saturday, December 11, 2010
CHURCH CANCELLED
There will be no Church on Sunday, December 12 due to inclimate weather. We are under a winter weather advisory with drifting snow, frigid temperatures and high winds forcasted for tomorrow. I hope everyone stays safe and warm tomorrow. God Bless you all.
Love,
Kelly
Love,
Kelly
The Apostles' Creed
I believe in God, the Father Almighty,
maker of heaven and earth.
And in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,
and born of the virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died and was buried.
He descended into hell.
On the third day He rose again from the dead.
He ascended into heaven
and sits at the right hand of the Father.
From thence He will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy Christian church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting. Amen.
maker of heaven and earth.
And in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,
and born of the virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died and was buried.
He descended into hell.
On the third day He rose again from the dead.
He ascended into heaven
and sits at the right hand of the Father.
From thence He will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy Christian church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting. Amen.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
How Does the Manger Reveal Who Christ Is?
How Does the Manger Reveal Who Christ Is?
A.W. Pink
Jesus was laid in a manger because there was no room for Him. How solemnly this brings out the world’s estimate of the Christ of God. There was no appreciation of His amazing condescension. He was not wanted. It is so still. There is no room for Him in the schools, in society, in the business world, among the great throngs of pleasure seekers, in the political realm, in the newspapers, nor in many of the churches. It is only history repeating itself. All that the world gave the Savior was a manger, a cross on which to die, and a borrowed grave to receive His murdered body.
He was laid in a manger to demonstrate the extent of His poverty. "For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might be rich" (2 Cor. 8:9). How "poor" He became, was thus manifested at the beginning. The One who, afterwards, had nowhere to lay His head, who had to ask for a penny when He would reply to His critics about the question of tribute, and who had to use another man’s house when instituting the Holy Supper, was, from the first, a homeless Stranger here. And the "manger" was the earliest evidence of t
He was laid in a manger to show His contempt for worldly riches and pomp.. We might think it more fitting for the Christ of God to be born in a palace and laid in a cradle of gold, lined with costly silks. But as He Himself reminds us in this same Gospel, "that which is highly esteemed among men, is abomination in the sight of God" (Luke 16:15). And what an exemplification of this truth was given when the infant Saviour was placed, not in a cradle of gold but, in an humble manger.
He was laid in a manger to mark His identification with human suffering and wretchedness. The One born was "The Son of Man." He had left the heights of Heaven’s glory and had descended to our level, and here we behold Him entering the human condition at its lowest point. Thus did the Man of Sorrows identify Himself with human suffering.
posted by Pat
A.W. Pink
Jesus was laid in a manger because there was no room for Him. How solemnly this brings out the world’s estimate of the Christ of God. There was no appreciation of His amazing condescension. He was not wanted. It is so still. There is no room for Him in the schools, in society, in the business world, among the great throngs of pleasure seekers, in the political realm, in the newspapers, nor in many of the churches. It is only history repeating itself. All that the world gave the Savior was a manger, a cross on which to die, and a borrowed grave to receive His murdered body.
He was laid in a manger to demonstrate the extent of His poverty. "For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might be rich" (2 Cor. 8:9). How "poor" He became, was thus manifested at the beginning. The One who, afterwards, had nowhere to lay His head, who had to ask for a penny when He would reply to His critics about the question of tribute, and who had to use another man’s house when instituting the Holy Supper, was, from the first, a homeless Stranger here. And the "manger" was the earliest evidence of t
He was laid in a manger to show His contempt for worldly riches and pomp.. We might think it more fitting for the Christ of God to be born in a palace and laid in a cradle of gold, lined with costly silks. But as He Himself reminds us in this same Gospel, "that which is highly esteemed among men, is abomination in the sight of God" (Luke 16:15). And what an exemplification of this truth was given when the infant Saviour was placed, not in a cradle of gold but, in an humble manger.
He was laid in a manger to mark His identification with human suffering and wretchedness. The One born was "The Son of Man." He had left the heights of Heaven’s glory and had descended to our level, and here we behold Him entering the human condition at its lowest point. Thus did the Man of Sorrows identify Himself with human suffering.
posted by Pat
by Jamilla Harris
I recall seeing a family member and they asked me if I was a Pastor. I had never been asked such thing. This person went on to remind me of all the things I did in the past that was negative. I know the Spirit was controlling me because I did not say a word.
After leaving the person I thought, "I wonder why my relative can only remember the bad." As I thought more and more I was reminded of the good I did which has lead me to the person I am today. I thought of how God has been using me and continues to use me insight of how I allowed the enemy to use me.
My mind travels to the book of Romans where it states, “This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." Romans 3:22-24
We note in the first verse it is explaining how righteousness from God comes from believing in Jesus. In other words, in order for you and me to talk, walk, and act within the condition that is acceptable to God we have to completely trust in Christ.
As we continue the next verse says why- because all of us, not just you, not just me, all of us have missed the mark, at some point and time. We have all refrained from talking, walking and acting as we ought to in the sight of the Lord, which is acceptable to God.
The final verse says we are justified freely by his grace through Christ. Because of the releasing of payment that Christ paid for us, we are seen as God wants, we are able to talk, walk and act in accordance to what is acceptable to God because we have faith in Christ.
When I was a child, I thought as a child. I did what I wanted, when I wanted but as I grew in the Lord and continue to grow in the Lord; He is being glorified.
We as children of God must be reminded that even though we let the enemy use us from time to time, there has been some high light moments for the Lord. There have been some times of ex halting the Lord. We cannot get engulfed with our mistakes and disappointments for perhaps it was not God's appointed time. We can't keep driving in reverse trying to go ahead in shame. We have to look to the heavens above and know that God looks at us through His son, our savior and that is why we are able to do things, impossible things.
I want to encourage you today to write your spiritual resume. Reflect on not allowing disappointment bring you to a halt. Consider not looking back at what you did in the past of shame and hold fast to your hall of fame in honor of the Lord. I want to encourage you to embrace the God in you and live life to its fullest. Man might not be able to accept you as a new creation but God does. Remember what Christ did for you and me so we have the victory!
http://healingbrokenheart.blogspot.com/?expref=next-blog
After leaving the person I thought, "I wonder why my relative can only remember the bad." As I thought more and more I was reminded of the good I did which has lead me to the person I am today. I thought of how God has been using me and continues to use me insight of how I allowed the enemy to use me.
My mind travels to the book of Romans where it states, “This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." Romans 3:22-24
We note in the first verse it is explaining how righteousness from God comes from believing in Jesus. In other words, in order for you and me to talk, walk, and act within the condition that is acceptable to God we have to completely trust in Christ.
As we continue the next verse says why- because all of us, not just you, not just me, all of us have missed the mark, at some point and time. We have all refrained from talking, walking and acting as we ought to in the sight of the Lord, which is acceptable to God.
The final verse says we are justified freely by his grace through Christ. Because of the releasing of payment that Christ paid for us, we are seen as God wants, we are able to talk, walk and act in accordance to what is acceptable to God because we have faith in Christ.
When I was a child, I thought as a child. I did what I wanted, when I wanted but as I grew in the Lord and continue to grow in the Lord; He is being glorified.
We as children of God must be reminded that even though we let the enemy use us from time to time, there has been some high light moments for the Lord. There have been some times of ex halting the Lord. We cannot get engulfed with our mistakes and disappointments for perhaps it was not God's appointed time. We can't keep driving in reverse trying to go ahead in shame. We have to look to the heavens above and know that God looks at us through His son, our savior and that is why we are able to do things, impossible things.
I want to encourage you today to write your spiritual resume. Reflect on not allowing disappointment bring you to a halt. Consider not looking back at what you did in the past of shame and hold fast to your hall of fame in honor of the Lord. I want to encourage you to embrace the God in you and live life to its fullest. Man might not be able to accept you as a new creation but God does. Remember what Christ did for you and me so we have the victory!
http://healingbrokenheart.blogspot.com/?expref=next-blog
Well-known pastor and author, Max Lucado, openly shared a personal struggle in New Man magazine (Jan/Feb 2002).
Having an occasional beer had never been an issue for him, until he found his craving for it increasing. Once on his way
to speak at a men's retreat he began to plot: "Where could I buy a beer and not be seen by anyone I know?" He drove to
an out-of-the-way convenience store, parked, and waited till all the patrons left. He entered, bought a beer, held it close
to his side, and hurried to his car. Feeling uneasy about his secrecy, Lucado didn't drink that beer. Instead he rolled
down the window, threw it in a trash bin, and asked God for forgiveness and later came clean with the elders of his
church about what happened.
Having an occasional beer had never been an issue for him, until he found his craving for it increasing. Once on his way
to speak at a men's retreat he began to plot: "Where could I buy a beer and not be seen by anyone I know?" He drove to
an out-of-the-way convenience store, parked, and waited till all the patrons left. He entered, bought a beer, held it close
to his side, and hurried to his car. Feeling uneasy about his secrecy, Lucado didn't drink that beer. Instead he rolled
down the window, threw it in a trash bin, and asked God for forgiveness and later came clean with the elders of his
church about what happened.
This story impacted me and was very influential in my decision to give up drinking in 2003. No, I wasn’t an alcoholic.
In fact I’ve never had even a sip of alcohol during my lifetime except in cough medicine. Although I never imbibed, I
carefully guarded my right to do so, convinced that it wouldn’t be wrong – until God asked me to give up that right.
Prior to 2003 external expectations largely influenced my decision to be a teetotaler. Since then the choice has been
driven by personal conviction.
In fact I’ve never had even a sip of alcohol during my lifetime except in cough medicine. Although I never imbibed, I
carefully guarded my right to do so, convinced that it wouldn’t be wrong – until God asked me to give up that right.
Prior to 2003 external expectations largely influenced my decision to be a teetotaler. Since then the choice has been
driven by personal conviction.
Some Friends are scrupulously principled while others disdain strictness so completely that many traditional taboos
have been discarded. I hope your meeting isn’t characterized by either legalism or license. Instead let’s strive to be a
people of faith whose lives are being shaped by Jesus, our present teacher.
have been discarded. I hope your meeting isn’t characterized by either legalism or license. Instead let’s strive to be a
people of faith whose lives are being shaped by Jesus, our present teacher.
- Doug Shoemaker
Long Lake Friends has their new cookbook ready for sale. "Hometown Favorites from Long Lake Friends Church" is
a bound cookbook or available as a CD costing $10 + shipping. E-mail your order to longlakefriends@att.net and they
will send an invoice with order. You may also place an order by phone at 1-231-946-5289; please leave your name
and number and they will call you back for mailing information.
a bound cookbook or available as a CD costing $10 + shipping. E-mail your order to longlakefriends@att.net and they
will send an invoice with order. You may also place an order by phone at 1-231-946-5289; please leave your name
and number and they will call you back for mailing information.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Sunday Service Cancelation - December 5th
Due to weather conditions Sunday Church Service and Sunday School will be canceled.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Strong like a mother holds her child
Free as horses runnin wild
And real as a prayer on a lonely night
And sure as the ocean tide
[chorus]
Oh love
Oh love
All the many colors that you’re made of
You heal
You bleed
You’re the simple truth and you’re the biggest mystery
Oh love
Oh love
Deep as the life from God’s own breath
Endless even after death
Gone like the sunset
You can break a heart in pieces
Put it back together again
You can break down sweet forgiveness
You’re the one that never ends
Free as horses runnin wild
And real as a prayer on a lonely night
And sure as the ocean tide
[chorus]
Oh love
Oh love
All the many colors that you’re made of
You heal
You bleed
You’re the simple truth and you’re the biggest mystery
Oh love
Oh love
Deep as the life from God’s own breath
Endless even after death
Gone like the sunset
You can break a heart in pieces
Put it back together again
You can break down sweet forgiveness
You’re the one that never ends
WTHR-TV CHANNEL 13
If we should have to cancel our regular Sunday Worship anytime this winter because of bad weather we will call channel 13 and have Hinkle Creek Friends listed with all of the other closings. I will not be in town this weekend so if we do close on Sunday because of the weather and you see it on the news will someone post it on the Blog for me? Thank You! Snow is predicted for Saturday possible 1-4 inches.
Please pray for Bob and Paulette as they travel to see family in Missouri. I will be praying for their safety and also that their time there will be restful and joyous.
Please pray for Bob and Paulette as they travel to see family in Missouri. I will be praying for their safety and also that their time there will be restful and joyous.
Goodbye!
Well, we head out to Missouri in the morning and sure hope we beat the snowfall. We should return on the 13th unless something goes terribly wrong out there or with the weather. I just wanted to let you know we will be gone and if you have a problem, you can call Will Bussell as he will be filling in for me. Please come to Church and support Will as he brings you the message the next two Sundays and along with him, Robert Pickett will be bringing the music on the piano. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you all, but we really need this time to check on Paulette's folks and hopefully have a time of long overdue rest. Just remember we love all of you so much and will look forward to seeing you on the 19th! God Bless! Remember, there will be NO ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL while we are gone. Bob & Paulette
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Tickets still available! FREE!
St.Vincent Carmel Hospital Presents Living Nativity
Canned Good Donations Will Benefit Food Pantries in Hamilton County
CARMEL – St.Vincent Carmel Hospital will present a Living Nativity, a re-enactment of the birth of Christ, on Saturday, December 12, on the hospital grounds (13500 N Meridian St., Carmel). The St. Theodore Guerin Catholic School Sounds of Providence Choir will provide music during the performances and The Circle City Brass Band will perform between sessions. Sharon Gamble, WFYI Public Radio, will narrate each of the four performances, 5 p.m., 6 p.m., 7 p.m. and 8 p.m.
The Carmel Community Players, a local theatrical non-profit group, will provide the actors and Carmel Community Players members Lori Raffel and Diane Hayes are this year’s director and producer. Live animals, including camels, sheep and a donkey, will add a touch of realism to the stable scene.
This is the 21st year St.Vincent Carmel has presented the Living Nativity. Tickets are required, but are free by calling 338-CARE (2273). Attendees may bring a gift of canned goods for donation. These donations will be distributed to food pantries in Hamilton County.
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