From our Pastors...

  

Dr. Alexander Whyte was a famous Scottish preacher during the 19th and early 20th centuries. He was particularly known for his effusive prayers of gratitude to God in the pulpit week after week. One Sunday arrived and the winter weather in Edinburgh had been so wretched of late that few were seated in the pews. As Dr. Whyte began his pastoral prayer, one of the parishioners present thought to himself, "What's he going to thank God for today? This has been a terrible week." Dr. Whyte opened the service with these words: "Oh Lord, We thank Thee O God, that it isn't always like this!"

  

Robert Louis Stevenson, author of Treasure Island and The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, wrote these and many of his famous works during an illness that plagued him for nearly a decade and required constant convalescence. He famously advised,

"Be certain to keep both your eyes open to your mercies." In his broken state physically he found a loving wife and the creative voice which made him such an acclaimed writer. Some hardships in life seem terrible in the moment but in retrospect become our greatest assets.

  

We all face many things which make thankfulness a very difficult prospect. But these are our changing circumstances. When God commands us to rejoice always and give thanks in all circumstances (and these are commands) he is telling us to set our hearts on the ultimate things in our lives. All things work out for the good for the believer because that which is ultimate and eternal in his life is wonderful and secure, never to be lost. Those relationships, achievements, and comforts we enjoy today, should be enjoyed and appreciated, but with the sure knowledge they are passing. If we keep our eyes wide open to our mercies, we should see Jesus Christ and know with certainty that the joy that will be ours in eternity will make all grief and the things that hurt us now become so small as to be forgotten.

  

In making the choice to be thankful and rejoice in all circumstances now, we are choosing to focus less on the present and more on our future which is brighter than we can even imagine.

2016 Events

Are you working on a video? More entries=more fun! You are encouraged to create a 5 min. or less family-appropriate video and submit it by Feb. 7. Everyone is invited to dress up and view the videos Feb. 26. Dessert will be served. For questions or to submit your video contact Dakota: 541.951.1100 or dakotaL@trail.org.

Women's Ministry

 

Single ladies of all ages are invited to enjoy a home-cooked dinner with great fellowship and a teaching or theme. Join us Monday, Nov. 23 from 6:00-7:30 p.m. in the Fireside Room. Please sign up at the Information Counter, no charge. Child care provided with sign up. Bring single lady friends! Questions? Cyndi Harrington: 541.826.9415

Men's Ministry

Youth Ministry

Celebrate Recovery...

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