Hello Crossroads Family!
Last night at Immerse we discussed the books of Judges and Ruth. For the first time I’m aware of, we divided up into one group of women only, and a second group of men only, for discussion.
The women’s takeaway from their discussion of these two books was …
“The wonder and danger of women!”
That’s a great insight! I’ll read these two books with a new perspective the next time I read them. There is tremendous influence on the part of women in those Old Testament stories, both for good and for not-so-good! Ruth, of course, but also Deborah, Delilah, Jael (who drove a tent peg through the head of the commander of the Canaanite army while he slept), and more! Wonderful! (And dangerous!)
The men’s takeaways were a little less focused but also good. We especially noticed the following :
- The ease with which the Israelite people turned to other gods.
- The emphasis given to Gideon and Samson in the book of Judges. Of particular interest during Samson’s years is the number of times it’s said that the Spirit of God “came upon him.” And yet, the last time Delilah tricked him “he didn’t know the Lord had departed from him.” How did he not know that? What was Samson’s relationship with God really like?
- In such wicked times as were experienced during the judges (some of which we see again today), we are tempted to cry out, “God, where are you?” Yet, might also God be asking us, “Where are you?”
I hope you’ll put next Wednesday night on your calendar and join us for Immerse at 7 pm, even if you’ve missed one or both of the past two sessions. It’s easy to jump in, and it’s a much-needed midweek encouragement! This coming week’s reading (next Wednesday’s discussion) is chapters 1-20 of 1 Samuel.
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Don’t forget that our clocks move forward this coming Saturday night! I look forward to being with you Sunday morning for a good time of worship, fellowship, Children’s Church, and prayer. Don’t forget that if you would like to pray with a few others prior to the service, come at 9:00 and meet in the “Prayer Room.”
When a church like ours experiences growth and spiritual excitement, Satan comes along and attacks in various ways. Some in our church are experiencing personal challenges which may very well be one way Satan would like to derail our enthusiasm and bring harm. Please be sure to pray for those who make up the church family. Thank you!
Calendar
Worship this Sunday, 10 am.
Don’t forget the time change. Come early for prayer — 9:00.
Immerse – next Wednesday, March 12, 7pm.
Everyone is welcome ! Reading assignment in the Immerse Bible is pp. 89-122.
Women’s Breakfast Out – Saturday, March 15, 8 am.
Some of our women will gather for breakfast at 54 Cafe if you would like to join them for some Saturday fellowship.
Men’s Recharge – Thursday, March 20, 6:30 pm
All men are welcome! Meet at the church for the second study in our series on “The Ten Greatest Struggles of Your Life.”
Spring Cleaning Day – Saturday, March 22, 9am – noon.
We have several projects needing done both inside and outside our facility. Please sign up if you can help, or let Donna Rodriguez know. Also check with Donna about the work assignments. Thanks for your help!
Hamburger / Hot Dog Cookout & Outreach – Sunday, March 30, following worship.
We’ll cook out and enjoy a meal together at Walton Park. There will be a sign-up list so you can bring food to help with the meal. Thanks for praying. Feel free to invite someone you know!
Tom time off
I’ll be taking time off March 15-23. Thank you for praying for me. I’ll be taking a couple of short trips and seeing some of my kids and grandkids during that time. Mark Tice will preach in my place on the 16th, and Markus Kirner, a seminary student from Midwestern Seminary, on the 23rd. Thanks to Jessica and the worship team for leading worship both Sundays.
Therefore remain steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. — 1 Corinthians 15:58
— Tom
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