ABOUT NEXT SUNDAY, July 27...

     This week, our "Cultivating Character" summer series continues with a message entitled, "Developing Vision." Vision is often regarded as a gift only a few people have. But it can and must be developed as a character trait.
   
     Sometimes it looks like too much work to be a visionary. It's much easier to just go with the flow and do what's expected. It takes courage to break out of our conventional thought patterns.  
   
     It also takes confidence and daring to risk failure with a new idea or approach. True visionaries tend to fail many times before they ever succeed, and most people feel too fragile to take risks. Most of us would rather be safe and secure.
   
     Many of us seem to think that dreams, grandiose plans, inventions and creative bursts are reserved for writers, physicists, composers and artists. But that's not true. Vision is a necessary character trait for those of us who feel ordinary as well.
 
    Those who develop vision learn to seek out solutions. They try to build a deeper understanding of the people around them. And they dedicate themselves to doing what God wants them to do.
 
    If this sounds difficult, begin now to claim the promise Jesus gave to his disciples in Matthew 19:26 when he said, "...With God all things are possible." Don't miss this Sunday as we talk about how to develop the character trait of vision.


     Emily and her husband, Jaymin are active members of Foothill Bible Church in Upland. Her office hours are Tuesday through Friday, 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. She can receive e-mail at emilyallen@highlandave.org or office@highlandave.org.    

     We deeply appreciate the seven years of faithful service that Wendy Mulvey has given as our office secretary. She is leaving in order to spend more time with her family.  

     I look forward to worshiping with you in the 9:30 and 11:00 am services this Sunday.