A Word from Pastor Matt...

Providence

Proverbs 16:9 

Allow me to share my embarrassment. Not too long ago I was involved with transporting a dear friend with a serious illness to an "out-of-state" clinic that specialized in his area of need. My friend's condition was complicated and required much care and maintenance. It didn't take long for things to grow "busy"...we lost his medicine, the oxygen valve went bad, construction detours plagued us, the engine began to sputter; it was like a bad movie.

The glory of this adventure however, lay in the wondrous frequency and scope of God's seemingly endless provision of miraculous last-minute "rescues". After 600 miles of "open all night" pharmacies, off-duty cops with maps and a wrench, phantom gas stations and even a stray hospital oxygen van in the middle of the desert (?!?!), we had pretty much given ourselves over into God's hands, relying solely upon His loving provision to keep us from death and danger (the Clinic's Doctor even ended up being the son of an old family friend...sheesh!).

My embarrassment comes with the remembrance that as we traveled home from the clinic, after this mind-boggling series of supernatural events, I could sense my spirit growing self-confident once more. As home drew closer and the landscape became increasingly familiar, it was as if my heart were taking the wheel from the Spirit's hands with a polite..."thanks Lord, you were a big help. I can take it from here" ...sigh... honestly, am I doomed never to progress beyond the wisdom of a spiritual third-grader?

Looking back, I'm sure He smiled at my boundless dementia (as we do with our children) and mercifully brought us safely home, free once again to wallow in the illusion that we were in control of the circumstances and events of our lives apart from God's ceaseless provision. It occurs to me that the greatest gift afforded by travel and adventure is the vivid and much needed reminder that though the mind of man may plan his way, it is the Lord Who directs his steps (Prov 16:9). Thank you Father...again!!!

Pastor Matt

Biblical Q & A

There will be an open Q & A time following service this Sunday, January 18, in the Worship Center moderated by Pastor Rick. It will last about ½ hour to 45 minutes.
There is no child care, so please get your children after service ends. Families are welcome.

Last Sunday to Sign Up

for The Art of Marriage

Are you married or engaged? Enhance your relationship with The Art of Marriage small group series. Six engaging video sessions weave together expert teaching, real-life stories, humorous vignettes, and more to portray both the challenges and the beauty of God's design for marriage.  Participants of the study interact with one another in the small group, and then weekly date nights enable couples to interact one-on-one through discussion questions and mini-projects. The accompanying workbook features study highlights, articles, as well as group discussion questions, date night discussion questions for couples, and date night ideas.

1. Love Happens: God's Purpose and Plan
2. Love Fades: Overcoming Isolation
3. Love Dances: Fulfilling Our Responsibilities
4. Love Interrupted: Communication and Conflict
5. Love Sizzles: Experiencing Real Intimacy
6. Love Always: Leaving a Lasting Legacy

We'll meet on Thursdays, Jan. 22- Feb. 26 from 6:30-8:20 p.m. in the Fireside Room. Please sign up at the Information Counter and indicate child care needs on the Event Envelope when you sign up. Cost is $20 per couple.

Mexico Mission Outreach Update 

Being God's Man Group Study 

Car Care Volunteers Needed 

Men's Raft Trip Meeting

If you're interested in floating the wild and scenic Rogue River this summer, come and hear the details Sunday, Jan. 25 right after service in the Adult Classroom (next to the Church Office). Mike Harrington: 826-9415 or Gary Bradley 474-7438

MOMS Group