TMG
Hello, Crossroads Family!
One of you emailed me yesterday and said, “I can’t wait for Sunday!” You may be able to imagine how much that encourages a pastor! Sunday is still my favorite day of the week, and I don’t think it’s just because I’m a pastor! To have an hour or more to focus on the truly meaningful things of life; to be with the people you love; to re-orient yourself again for a new week — all of that is truly a gift. To sing out loud because the One listening is pleased, no matter what your musical skill — it’s great to be in the presence of the Father again. Many of you, like me, remember what it was like to be a kid and for someone else (a parent) to be in charge. Sunday worship allows us to feel like “kids” again.
We’ll be in Revelation 2:1-17 for this Sunday’s sermon, the first three of the Lord’s seven letters to churches. What could ancient letters to ancient churches have to do with us today? As it turns out, they contain powerful truths that make a difference in our lives!
What are some ways we can get more out of Sunday worship? Here are a few simple answers:
- Pray. Ask God now to prepare the hearts of all who will gather, and to give joy and wisdom to those preparing and leading the service in different ways. Ask Michaela who the Children’s Church workers are so you can pray for those volunteers.
- Begin praying today for those you will be worshiping with — those who currently make up our Crossroads family, and those who may be visiting or new.
- Arrive early Sunday morning. You’ll have a chance to enter into the joy of the morning, or a chance to quiet your heart for a few minutes and set aside the cares and burdens of life. You’ll encourage newcomers and regular members by being there to welcome them.
- Read Sunday’s Scripture ahead of time (for this coming Sunday, Revelation 2:1-17).
- On Thursday or Friday, text or email Heather Hall and ask her what songs we’ll be singing. (Heather prepares the worship slides each week, so she’ll know and would be happy to tell you!) By familiarizing yourself with Sunday’s songs, your heart and voice will be better able to enter into singing.
- Almost every Sunday, some from Crossroads eat out together after the service. Plan to join them. Just ask around where people are going. If you’re going home after the service, consider inviting someone to join you or your family. Over lunch, share a way God spoke to you during the service.
Regular worship is much like eating regular meals. You may not remember many of the meals you eat, but because you regularly take in nourishment, you stay in good health, grow physically, and feel good!
Calendar
Baby Bottle Boomerang
Baby bottles are due back to Kim Reedy this Sunday! Thanks to everyone who has participated! If you didn’t take a baby bottle last month but would like to make a donation to Birthright of Nevada, you are certainly welcome to bring your donation in a different kind of container!
Elders Meeting
Our elders meeting has been postponed from this Sunday (2/19) until the following Sunday (2/26). Please pray for our church elders, for healthy ministry at Crossroads, and for God’s leading into the spring season and beyond. Thank you!
Nevada Show Choir Classic
For those of you interested in the show choir “Classic” at Nevada High School this Saturday, choirs will be performing from 8 am ’til 10 pm in the Performing Arts Center and in the Auxiliary Gym. Admission for the day is $10 for adults, $5 for students and those age 55+, and free for anyone under 6. Our Nevada choirs will sing at 12:30, 2:00, and 5:30 pm. Finals start at 7:30 pm in the PAC.
Prayers
Thanks for being faithful in prayer!
- Andrew LaNear will have further tests tomorrow (Wednesday). I had a good visit with Andrew today and know he appreciates the prayers of the church family.
- Andrew’s grandmother, Brenda, will have surgery at the end of the month for a tumor behind her eye.
- Pray for Julie’s son-in-law, Ben, who has had a port installed in order to begin kidney dialysis.
- Praise for those at Crossroads engaged in one-on-one and small-group discipleship!
- Pray for the many, many people impacted by the earthquakes in Turkey.
- Pray for those who are suffering in Ukraine.
All the All’s
It was a blessing to have Lawson and Shay Albey with us last Sunday! They have around 80% of the financial and prayer support they’re looking for in order to leave for the ministry God has called them to in Ankara, Turkey. Imagine: Ankara, a city of 6 million people, and only 15 churches! Here’s a very brief summary of Lawson’s sermon from Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus’ commission to His disciples to go to all nations:
1. All authority. We follow the Lord’s command to make disciples because He has commissioned us. He possesses authority and is our commander-in-chief.
2. All nations. The word “nations” in the Matthew 28 passage is from a Greek word that perhaps more accurately means “ethnicities.” We’re to reach all people groups, both near and far.
3. All that He commanded. Our message should include a call to obedience. The Lord’s own summary of His commandments was to love God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. (Matthew 22:37-40).
4. Always. He is with us always, no matter where we go.
What a great thought!
— Tom
Leave a Reply