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Walking Where Jesus Walked
This Sunday afternoon (October 5) I will be leaving with a group of RCA Pastors for a trip to Israel. It will be an opportunity to meet with RCA missionaries Rev. Marlin and Sally Vis (ministry to Palestinian Christians in Israel and Palestine), and Rev. Michael Bos (Oman). I'm excited to once again see these friends who are partners in the gospel with us.
I'm also very much looking forward to seeing and reflecting on the significant places where Jesus launched and engaged in His ministry. Bethlehem, Nazareth, and Galilee are all on the itinerary. To walk in Jerusalem and contemplate what it means to be a "streets of Jerusalem" church versus an "Upper Room" church - like we have talked about in our study of Acts 1 and 2 the past few Sundays - is something I am eager to experience.
One of the significant thoughts that Israel reinforces through its geography and topography is the contrast of desert dryness and the value of life-giving water. Into a land where heat, thirst, and drought are prevalent comes the One who promises us "living water". To all who are thirsty, Jesus provides refreshing for our hearts and souls. He makes that offer to you and to me. Whatever you are currently experiencing that feels overwhelming, overburdening, like walking through the desert without enough water - Jesus wants to walk with you to strengthen you, encourage you, refresh you.
I would covet your prayers as I journey to Israel. While safety is an issue, and my thoughts will be for my family while I am gone, I would ask that the presence and power of God's Holy Spirit would be able to minister to my heart and mind while on this pilgrimage - that God would speak clearly and I would be able to hear His words, His desires, His will for me and for Fair Haven. May the psalmist's words find fulfillment: "He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake." (Psalm 23:2-3)
Together in the Cause,
Tom De Vries
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 FourPoints: North/South/East/West
Orange Barrel Bash is this Thursday night, October 2, from 5 to 8 PM in the South Parking Lot at Fair Haven! Please plan on sharing in this neighborhood BBQ with an opportunity to bring encouragement, joy, and fun to our community with food, live music, and a bounce house for the kids. Want to help? Email Doug McClintic, dougm@fhmin.org, to volunteer. Pray for minimal rain and the Holy Spirit to work in the hearts of people who need to be there!
The Journey is a four-week experience to get connected and find out more about Fair Haven. It starts this Sunday, October 5 with Connect which is the class I teach. Classes are Sunday mornings from 9 to 10:30 AM in Room 310/312. If you want to go deeper in your journey with Jesus, became a member of Fair Haven (The Journey is the pre-requisite and new member process), or find greater connection with others this is the way to do it. I look forward to seeing you this Sunday . . . Questions? Email Tom Elenbaas, Pastor of Cultivation, elenbaas@fhmin.org.
 Something More is the new Celebration Message series starting this Sunday. We will be focusing on Acts 2:42-47 and how the disciples discovered a deep and lasting fulfillment to some of the key longings we all experience in life - longing for: understanding, relationship, passion, and significance. Plan on being there Sunday to find fulfillment for the longing of your heart . . .
Election '08 With the presidential elections just over a month away please continue to be in prayer for the direction and needs of our country. With the challenges of job loss, high gas prices, and the credit crunch life can be difficult for many. Participating in the election process ensures Christ followers can represent the values and beliefs of our faith. The last day to register to vote for the election in November is Monday, October 6. One of the easiest ways to register to vote is through the Secretary of State's office.
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 Currents is an electronic communication from Fair Haven Ministries - devotional thoughts, updates, and information for individuals connected to the ministry of Fair Haven. It is communicated via email and through the Fair Haven website - www.fhmin.org. If you do not desire to receive Currents, please follow the unsubscribe directions at the bottom of this email, otherwise, we hope you find meaning, encouragement, and hope through these regular communiqués |
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FAIR HAVEN MINISTRIES
2900 Baldwin
Hudsonville, MI 49426
616-662-2100
Worship Celebrations at 9:00am & 10:45am | |
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