Reaching Out with Purpose

"Last year, I watched a visiting family have a blast at Trunk & Treat," reports Lovina about the fall outreach event. "The father was going from game to game, smiling and eating tons of candy! His children were of middle school age, and they were so excited. I was very happy to see them, said 'hello,' and welcomed them. I remember praying for them, asking God to use the verse cards we were handing out to speak to them. Many families attended but this one really remained on my heart."

Kids love the decorated cars and games at our traditional Trunk & Treat, and they love to dress up in costumes. The barbecue and praise music will set a perfect atmosphere to lounge with newcomers and talk about the ways God works in our lives. We want to take every opportunity to bring children and adults to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Please be in prayer for this October 29 event, and if you can help by setting up a decorated car or truck, let Lovina know.

Growing through Discipline

Does it seem as though every minute of every day is busy with work, chores, raising kids, serving -- the business of living? Focusing on our spiritual lives can help re-orient us. If we practice walking with God on a weekly and even a daily basis, we can be living in intimacy with Him. We learn to listen to the Holy Spirit, meditate, pray, fast, and give, for example. To learn more about why and how to practice these disciplines, one resource is a book by Gil Stieglitz called Spiritual Disciplines of a C.H.R.I.S.T.I.A.N. In it, we are challenged to do spiritual workouts, both individually and in groups. For a perspective on using this book as the subject of a small group study, talk to Mike Easter.

We have a wonderful chance to practice the discipline of worship tonight, Friday the 14th, at 7 p.m., during a special Worship Night. According to Stieglitz, "To worship God is to be consumed with the nature, person, essence, works, attributes, and presence of God." What an honor to be a part of that!