- Sunday, December 1, 2013 - Christmas Caroling - Meet at church at 2:30pm to pack the plates, and leave around 3:00pm.
- Sunday, December 22, 2013 - Youth Sunday - Breakfast will be served at 9:30am and the youth will lead the morning worship.
- Tuesday, December 24, 2013 - Christmas Eve Service at 6pm.
Monday, November 25, 2013
Upcoming Events for December
Pastor's Penpoint - "It's a Present, Not a Past" - December 2013
Christmas is the yearly celebration of the birth of Jesus, but it is truly a gift that we must experience each day. I share with you the following thoughts -- based on a meditation by an anonymous author -- which enlighten us during the busy holiday season and sums up the true meaning of what we hope to celebrate as people of faith.
Hoping your Christmas is merry and bright!
~ Pastor Todd
- Christmas is a present, not a past.
- Christmas should not be just a historical date to remember, but a gift to be lived.
- When you decide to love those around you, that day is Christmas.
- When you take the first step to be at peace with a loved one, that day is Christmas.
- When you meet someone who asks for help and you assist them with all your heart, that day is Christmas.
- When you take time to talk to someone who is lonely and sad, that day is Christmas.
- When you understand that resentment can be transformed by forgiveness, that day is Christmas.
- When you let go of something to give to someone who needs it more than you, that day is Christmas.
- When you realize that love, service and authentic concern are the best gifts, that day is Christmas.
- When you decide to live with joy and hope rather than surrender to fear and sadness, that day is Christmas.
Hoping your Christmas is merry and bright!
~ Pastor Todd
Monday, November 18, 2013
Pastor's Penpoint - "A Little Birdie Told Me" - November 2013
He says, "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." (Psalm46:10)
The office I work in at Bridgewater College is a little off the main campus. It is actually in an old house that sits alongside residential neighbors. As I look out my bay window from time to time, I see the neighbor's cars parked right outside. Something caught my eye this week ... a movement around the cars ... and I sat for a full 10 minutes watching what was happening.
A bird was responsible for the action ... but it was the action itself that was so interesting. The bird would fly to the top of the car, and then systematically move from window to window trying to fly in, or at least I first thought. What I realized is the bird was moving from window to window trying to fight its own reflection. It would take on the fight and then it would catch its reflection in the next window ... constantly moving on to the next fight. I don't know if it was frustration, fear or anger that motivated that bird, but this went on the entire time I was watching. I don't know how the fight ended because I was distracted by a phone call.
I've thought about that bird a lot this week. I think its story is important for us - especially as we enter the rush and chaos that is the holiday season. We too, like that bird wear ourselves out and down by fighting our own reflection (or more to the point what the world convinces us our reflection should be). We move from fight to fight with ourselves from one holiday to the next. Self-imposed deadlines and expectations is our enemy - and we see within ourselves something worth fighting ... but the battle is never ending because expectations and deadlines never cease.
Is it frustration, fear or anger that causes us to fight so hard against ourselves? God tells us ... be still and know that I am God. What a simple message - but one wrapped in so much truth and promise. I know it will be hard to not fight our reflection this holiday season - but God still counsels us ... be still ... and know ...
As the holidays gear up let us look into the reflection of our Lord, and in him find peace for our souls.
~ Pastor Todd
The office I work in at Bridgewater College is a little off the main campus. It is actually in an old house that sits alongside residential neighbors. As I look out my bay window from time to time, I see the neighbor's cars parked right outside. Something caught my eye this week ... a movement around the cars ... and I sat for a full 10 minutes watching what was happening.
A bird was responsible for the action ... but it was the action itself that was so interesting. The bird would fly to the top of the car, and then systematically move from window to window trying to fly in, or at least I first thought. What I realized is the bird was moving from window to window trying to fight its own reflection. It would take on the fight and then it would catch its reflection in the next window ... constantly moving on to the next fight. I don't know if it was frustration, fear or anger that motivated that bird, but this went on the entire time I was watching. I don't know how the fight ended because I was distracted by a phone call.
I've thought about that bird a lot this week. I think its story is important for us - especially as we enter the rush and chaos that is the holiday season. We too, like that bird wear ourselves out and down by fighting our own reflection (or more to the point what the world convinces us our reflection should be). We move from fight to fight with ourselves from one holiday to the next. Self-imposed deadlines and expectations is our enemy - and we see within ourselves something worth fighting ... but the battle is never ending because expectations and deadlines never cease.
Is it frustration, fear or anger that causes us to fight so hard against ourselves? God tells us ... be still and know that I am God. What a simple message - but one wrapped in so much truth and promise. I know it will be hard to not fight our reflection this holiday season - but God still counsels us ... be still ... and know ...
As the holidays gear up let us look into the reflection of our Lord, and in him find peace for our souls.
~ Pastor Todd
Monday, October 28, 2013
Infant Dedication
Canyon Cassidy and Kaliegh Feldmeier were dedicated yesterday in a ceremony in which a commitment was made by both families and the congregation to raise them according to God's ways.
Friday, October 11, 2013
Upcoming Events for October and November
Saturday Oct. 12 - The MMI will be cutting firewood starting at 8:30am. Meet at Josh and Beck's house.
Sunday Oct. 13 - There will be a Pastor Appreciation Meal following the morning worship service. Please bring a dish or two to share with all.
Sunday Oct. 20 - Pastor Dan will be bringing the morning message.
Sunday Oct. 27 - No Sunday School. Worships will start at 10:10am. We will be having baby dedications along with Southern Grace singing.
Saturday Nov. 2 - Planning Retreat at the Church
Saturday Nov. 9 - The annual "Ladies Inspirational Fellowship Time" (LIFT) will take place at Sangerville Towers Ruritan Hall
Sunday Nov. 10 - Thankoffering Service with the Honduran medical mission team speaking. A fellowship meal will follow. Please bring a dish or two to share with all.
Monday Nov. 11 - The MMI and WMF will both meet at the church at 7pm.
Sunday Oct. 13 - There will be a Pastor Appreciation Meal following the morning worship service. Please bring a dish or two to share with all.
Sunday Oct. 20 - Pastor Dan will be bringing the morning message.
Sunday Oct. 27 - No Sunday School. Worships will start at 10:10am. We will be having baby dedications along with Southern Grace singing.
Saturday Nov. 2 - Planning Retreat at the Church
Saturday Nov. 9 - The annual "Ladies Inspirational Fellowship Time" (LIFT) will take place at Sangerville Towers Ruritan Hall
Sunday Nov. 10 - Thankoffering Service with the Honduran medical mission team speaking. A fellowship meal will follow. Please bring a dish or two to share with all.
Monday Nov. 11 - The MMI and WMF will both meet at the church at 7pm.
From the October Mt. Olivet Newletter
Psalm 71: 18-19 "Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come. Your righteousness, God reaches to the heavens, you who have done great things, who is like you, God?"
This verse reminds me of an old song that said "The old gray mare, she ain't what she used to be." Do you remember this song? I liked it better before I discovered the gray in my hair where there was once brown hair.
Psalms 71 is a prayer for old age. It tells us to never be confused. He has given us commandments to save us. God is our rock and salvation. God is our hope and trust. He will deliver us out of the hand of the wicked. He will always be around and will help us in our time of need.
As we go through our daily tasks, we can always rely on God to help us today. We need patience and if the situation does not happen the way we think it should, we need to recognize that God knows best.
Many in our culture think of growing older as a negative thing. The person who wrote this Psalm lived at a time when graying brought respect. The Psalmist sees this respect as an opening to share the Lord's love. He implores God to give him this opportunity.
As God adds years to our lives, he also addspower of perspective. We can look back and see God's faithfulness at work year by year. We can remember the many ways he has revealed his goodness to us throughout our lives. By our experiences, we can encourage the next generation in our Lord's faithful love.
I receibed a call from Nathan Boggs from Laurel Missions last week. We confirmed the dates for next year. We will be leaving on Sunday, August 3, 2014 after the morning service and return on Saturday, August 9, 2014. This will give us five days to work. Nathan also informed me that 500 coal miners were furloughed possibly permanently. He wants us to supply all the Thanksgiving meals we can. A meal for a family of six costs $20.00. If you can help out, please give the money to Kevin Lam by October 27, 2013. Remember Jesus tells us to feed the hungry.
In His name,
Pastor Dan
This verse reminds me of an old song that said "The old gray mare, she ain't what she used to be." Do you remember this song? I liked it better before I discovered the gray in my hair where there was once brown hair.
Psalms 71 is a prayer for old age. It tells us to never be confused. He has given us commandments to save us. God is our rock and salvation. God is our hope and trust. He will deliver us out of the hand of the wicked. He will always be around and will help us in our time of need.
As we go through our daily tasks, we can always rely on God to help us today. We need patience and if the situation does not happen the way we think it should, we need to recognize that God knows best.
Many in our culture think of growing older as a negative thing. The person who wrote this Psalm lived at a time when graying brought respect. The Psalmist sees this respect as an opening to share the Lord's love. He implores God to give him this opportunity.
As God adds years to our lives, he also addspower of perspective. We can look back and see God's faithfulness at work year by year. We can remember the many ways he has revealed his goodness to us throughout our lives. By our experiences, we can encourage the next generation in our Lord's faithful love.
I receibed a call from Nathan Boggs from Laurel Missions last week. We confirmed the dates for next year. We will be leaving on Sunday, August 3, 2014 after the morning service and return on Saturday, August 9, 2014. This will give us five days to work. Nathan also informed me that 500 coal miners were furloughed possibly permanently. He wants us to supply all the Thanksgiving meals we can. A meal for a family of six costs $20.00. If you can help out, please give the money to Kevin Lam by October 27, 2013. Remember Jesus tells us to feed the hungry.
In His name,
Pastor Dan
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Pastor's Penpoint - "It's About Time" - September 2013
The Bible has a lot to say about time. The most important thing it says is something we know already - that our time is limited. Time can be used or wasted, it can be inbested or squandered, but either way, once used, it can never be regained. Time matters because we have such a limited supply. The most famous passage in the Bible about time reminds us that there is a time for everything in life. Here are the first four verses from Ecclesiastes 3:
There is a time for everything,
And a season for every activity under heaven:
A time to be born and a time to die,
A time to plant and a time to uproot,
A time to kill and a time to heal,
A time to tear down and a time to build,
A time to weep and a time to laugh,
A time to mourn and a time to dance.
We always have plenty of time to do everything we need to do. This means that all of my time belongs to God, and therefore how I spend my days is a sacred issue. Someday I will answer for what I did on October 8, 1982, a date that means nothing except that I pulled it out of the air. I could have said January 17, 1999 or May 8, 2008, or I could have said September 1, 2013 which would definitely bring the matter much closer to home.
Time matters because time is the stuff of life, and when time is gone so is life. That means what I do with the moments of my life, the opportunities I take, the people I talk to, the path I follow, all of it matters because sooner or later, for me and for you, time will be no more.
Time has become the new currency of life. For most of us time matters more than money. We will spend money to save time whereas our parents would spend time to save money. In a world where most of us feel stressed out, we value our free time more than a few extra dollars in our pocket.
What will you do with the time you have ... until you have no more time? Just a thought.
~ Pastor Todd
Monday, September 2, 2013
Rest in Peace, Robert Rawley, Sr.
MOUNT SOLON – Robert Bryan Rawley Sr., 87, of 652 George Walton Road, died Saturday, Aug. 31, 2013, in his home.
Born Oct. 27, 1925, in Augusta County, he was a son of the late Robert Dyke Rawley and Myree Bryan (Michael) Rawley.
He was a self-employed beef and hog farmer who loved his farm, and also enjoyed gardening and hunting. He was an active member of Mt. Olivet United Brethren in Christ Church and the North Augusta camp of Gideons International.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Eugene Rawley, and a sister, Ruby Cherry. Surviving are his wife, Martha (Frey) Rawley, whom he married July 7, 1951; four children, Karen A. Stroup and husband, Greg, of Warren, Ind., Robert B. Rawley Jr. and wife, Ellen, of Mount Solon, David G. Rawley and wife, Cindy, of Greencastle, Pa., and Fonda R. Cassidy and husband, Robert Jr., of Mount Solon; a sister, Mildred Nelson of Fort Wayne, Ind.; two brothers, Harry Rawley of Bridgewater and Guy Rawley of Mount Solon; six grandchildren, LaShawn Lewis and husband, Brian, Bryan Rawley and wife, Krista, Josh Rawley and wife, Rebecca, Karch Cassidy and wife, Mary Beth, Kira Griffin and husband, Travis, and Amos Rawley and wife, Annalee; six great-grandchildren, Luke, Grayson, Eli and Jacob Rawley, Sierra and Canyon Cassidy; one great-grandchild on the way; and two stepgreat-grandchildren, McKenzie and Alston North.
A funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday in Mt. Olivet United Brethren in Christ Church, 862 Freemason Run Road, Mount Solon with the Rev. Todd Lilley officiating. Active pallbearers will be Bryan, Josh and Amos Rawley, Brian Lewis, Karch Cassidy and Travis Griffin. Honorary pallbearers will be members of MMI and Gideons International.
The family will receive friends from 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday at Bear Funeral Home
.
Memorials may be directed to Mt. Olivet United Brethren Church, c/o Ellen Rawley, 827 George Waltons Road, Mount Solon, VA 22843.
We will miss you.
Born Oct. 27, 1925, in Augusta County, he was a son of the late Robert Dyke Rawley and Myree Bryan (Michael) Rawley.
He was a self-employed beef and hog farmer who loved his farm, and also enjoyed gardening and hunting. He was an active member of Mt. Olivet United Brethren in Christ Church and the North Augusta camp of Gideons International.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Eugene Rawley, and a sister, Ruby Cherry. Surviving are his wife, Martha (Frey) Rawley, whom he married July 7, 1951; four children, Karen A. Stroup and husband, Greg, of Warren, Ind., Robert B. Rawley Jr. and wife, Ellen, of Mount Solon, David G. Rawley and wife, Cindy, of Greencastle, Pa., and Fonda R. Cassidy and husband, Robert Jr., of Mount Solon; a sister, Mildred Nelson of Fort Wayne, Ind.; two brothers, Harry Rawley of Bridgewater and Guy Rawley of Mount Solon; six grandchildren, LaShawn Lewis and husband, Brian, Bryan Rawley and wife, Krista, Josh Rawley and wife, Rebecca, Karch Cassidy and wife, Mary Beth, Kira Griffin and husband, Travis, and Amos Rawley and wife, Annalee; six great-grandchildren, Luke, Grayson, Eli and Jacob Rawley, Sierra and Canyon Cassidy; one great-grandchild on the way; and two stepgreat-grandchildren, McKenzie and Alston North.
A funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday in Mt. Olivet United Brethren in Christ Church, 862 Freemason Run Road, Mount Solon with the Rev. Todd Lilley officiating. Active pallbearers will be Bryan, Josh and Amos Rawley, Brian Lewis, Karch Cassidy and Travis Griffin. Honorary pallbearers will be members of MMI and Gideons International.
The family will receive friends from 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday at Bear Funeral Home
.
Memorials may be directed to Mt. Olivet United Brethren Church, c/o Ellen Rawley, 827 George Waltons Road, Mount Solon, VA 22843.
We will miss you.
Monday, August 12, 2013
Visiting the Shut-ins
20 of Mt. Olivet's youth enjoyed Sunday afternoon by visiting 3 of the elder members of the church, Mrs. Miller, Mr. Rawley and Mrs. Daggy. They were all emotionally moved by the attention, the songs, and the hugs the youth shared.
Saturday, August 10, 2013
A Week at Laurel Mission
"Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need." 1 Timothy 5:3
A group of 21 from Mt. Olivet traveled to Laurel Mission this week in Big Laurel, KY. The majority of the work was done at the home of a widow lady named Olla Mae. Her floors were rotting out and giving away because of soil washing under the house and around the floor joists. The joists and floor had to be replaced, along with the plumbing. A new shower, water heater and sink were installed. She had never had hot water before. The house is insulated with metal doors screwed to the outside walls. These were rusting and needed to be painted. Then a ditch had to be dug on the back side to divert water away from the house.
Cedar Chapel was sanded and received a new coat of stain. And the clothing store received a trailer load of supplies and was organized.
After hard work comes hard play,
hearty eating,
and heavy sleeping.
Thanks to all who participated by praying, by donating and by going.
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Pastor's Penpoint - "An Attitude of Gratitude" - August 2013
"Giving thanks always for all things to God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;" Ephesians 5:20
I had someone tell me once, "If you are lucky enough to live in the Shenandoah Valley, you are lucky enough." I am grateful to live in the Shenandoah Valley ... which got me thinking about this 10 letter word ... gratitude.
- The only difference between a traffic delay and a chance to relax a bit is gratitude.
- The only difference between a thunderstorm and not needing to wash your car is gratitude.
- The only difference between an interruption and an opportunity is gratitude.
- The only difference between a joyous life and a gloomy one is gratitude.
Because at the end of the day, everyone has problems. I have problems, you have problems, we all have problems. Gratitude doesn't deny their presence; it just denies them power and precedence. I mean really, it's all about perspective. The truth is no stage of life is going to be "perfect" in the way you've envisioned it. There is always something just ahead that keeps us from appreciating what we have, if we let it. This may depress you, but it should inspire you, because it frees you up to enjoy what you have without worrying so much about making it perfect, because it ain't gonna be.
Scripture tells us "For everything there is a season." If you spend springtime wishing it would be summer and then in the summer you whine about the heat and then in the fall you mope when it rains, you'll always be unhappy. But if you enjoy the flowers in May and the sun in August and the pungent smell of wet earth in November, and if you can learn to splash in the puddles and make iced tea when the temperature is over 100, then you will enjoy every season, and you will know the secret victory of gratitude.
So whether you're in high school yearning for the big world or in college yearning to never read a book again or single and wishing you weren't or dating and annoyed he hasn't asked or married and wanting babies or a parent and dying for those babies to be grown ... just slow it down! Every step of the way, thank God. Savor it all. Drink it up.
And when life is hectic and crazy and imperfect and your finances are tight and your pants are tight and your schedule is tight ... congratulations, you are a human being. Life isn't and uninterrupted plan; life is a long series of interruptions. You either embrace them, or you don't.
So then the goal isn't to win but to see why you're already winning. It's a chessy bumper sticker, but is true ... and the happy people aren't the ones who "have the life they love but who love the life they have."
~ Pastor Todd
I had someone tell me once, "If you are lucky enough to live in the Shenandoah Valley, you are lucky enough." I am grateful to live in the Shenandoah Valley ... which got me thinking about this 10 letter word ... gratitude.
- The only difference between a traffic delay and a chance to relax a bit is gratitude.
- The only difference between a thunderstorm and not needing to wash your car is gratitude.
- The only difference between an interruption and an opportunity is gratitude.
- The only difference between a joyous life and a gloomy one is gratitude.
Because at the end of the day, everyone has problems. I have problems, you have problems, we all have problems. Gratitude doesn't deny their presence; it just denies them power and precedence. I mean really, it's all about perspective. The truth is no stage of life is going to be "perfect" in the way you've envisioned it. There is always something just ahead that keeps us from appreciating what we have, if we let it. This may depress you, but it should inspire you, because it frees you up to enjoy what you have without worrying so much about making it perfect, because it ain't gonna be.
Scripture tells us "For everything there is a season." If you spend springtime wishing it would be summer and then in the summer you whine about the heat and then in the fall you mope when it rains, you'll always be unhappy. But if you enjoy the flowers in May and the sun in August and the pungent smell of wet earth in November, and if you can learn to splash in the puddles and make iced tea when the temperature is over 100, then you will enjoy every season, and you will know the secret victory of gratitude.
So whether you're in high school yearning for the big world or in college yearning to never read a book again or single and wishing you weren't or dating and annoyed he hasn't asked or married and wanting babies or a parent and dying for those babies to be grown ... just slow it down! Every step of the way, thank God. Savor it all. Drink it up.
And when life is hectic and crazy and imperfect and your finances are tight and your pants are tight and your schedule is tight ... congratulations, you are a human being. Life isn't and uninterrupted plan; life is a long series of interruptions. You either embrace them, or you don't.
So then the goal isn't to win but to see why you're already winning. It's a chessy bumper sticker, but is true ... and the happy people aren't the ones who "have the life they love but who love the life they have."
~ Pastor Todd
Monday, July 1, 2013
Pastor's Penpoint - "Freedom From Terrorism (Sin)" - July 2013
So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, "If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
John 8: 31-32
Like millions of Americans, the coming of July points my mind to the Fourth of July holiday and what it represents: our freedom as a nation. This freedom is a precious thing and worthy of our introspection and focus on what independence means.
Gratitude without measure wells up in my heart when I consider the brave men and women of the military who, this Fourth of July, will be and are fighting to combat terrorism. These warriors stand in the line of valiant soldiers who fought in the Revolutionary War, Civil War, 2 World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, the first Gulf War and on and on. Each of these conflicts - while unique in themselves - shared the common goal of protecting American freedom. Today's battles are no different.
But even as I prize my freedom as an American, I am moved to consider a greater freedom - my freedom in Christ. It is the freedom that comes with being a disciple of Jesus Christ. "If you abide in my word," our Lord declares, "you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (John 8:31-32).
This statement was shocking to Jesus' audience. These proud men thought they already had all the freedom they needed by virtue of being "offspring of Abraham" (8:33). Jesus proceeds to point them beyond any national, social or religious freedom they might enjoy to the freedom that comes through His person and work: "Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin ... So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed" (8:34,26). Contrary to what Jesus' listeners thought, they were in bondage to sin and subject to the terrorism it brought.
Even as Christians we can fall to the temptation to trust in other things for our freedom from the tyranny of sin: status, money, food works, associations, etc. But the true disciple finds freedom in Christ and Christ alone. The Fourth of July is a wonderful time to consider our freedom - as Americans and as Christians. Our national freedom is precious, but our freedom in Christ is of infinite worth.
The great hymn writer Charles Wesley was undoubtedly moved by his freedom in Christ when in 1738 he penned this stanza:
John 8: 31-32
Like millions of Americans, the coming of July points my mind to the Fourth of July holiday and what it represents: our freedom as a nation. This freedom is a precious thing and worthy of our introspection and focus on what independence means.
Gratitude without measure wells up in my heart when I consider the brave men and women of the military who, this Fourth of July, will be and are fighting to combat terrorism. These warriors stand in the line of valiant soldiers who fought in the Revolutionary War, Civil War, 2 World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, the first Gulf War and on and on. Each of these conflicts - while unique in themselves - shared the common goal of protecting American freedom. Today's battles are no different.
But even as I prize my freedom as an American, I am moved to consider a greater freedom - my freedom in Christ. It is the freedom that comes with being a disciple of Jesus Christ. "If you abide in my word," our Lord declares, "you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (John 8:31-32).
This statement was shocking to Jesus' audience. These proud men thought they already had all the freedom they needed by virtue of being "offspring of Abraham" (8:33). Jesus proceeds to point them beyond any national, social or religious freedom they might enjoy to the freedom that comes through His person and work: "Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin ... So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed" (8:34,26). Contrary to what Jesus' listeners thought, they were in bondage to sin and subject to the terrorism it brought.
Even as Christians we can fall to the temptation to trust in other things for our freedom from the tyranny of sin: status, money, food works, associations, etc. But the true disciple finds freedom in Christ and Christ alone. The Fourth of July is a wonderful time to consider our freedom - as Americans and as Christians. Our national freedom is precious, but our freedom in Christ is of infinite worth.
The great hymn writer Charles Wesley was undoubtedly moved by his freedom in Christ when in 1738 he penned this stanza:
Long my imprisoned spirit lay,
Fast bound in sin and nature's night;
Thine eye diffused a quickening ray -
I woke, the dungeon flamed with light;
My chains fell off, my heart was free,
I rose, went forth, and followed Thee.
The saving truth that Jesus speaks of in John 8:32 bring ultimate freedom - freedom from sin and death and the devil; freedom from a life of futility and an eternity of wrath. It is freedom from the tyranny of hate and bitterness and cruelty. It is the freedom to love God and neighbor.
May this "Declaration of Independence" be on my lips and in my heart this Fourth of July holiday.
~ Pastor Todd
Monday, June 17, 2013
Honduras Medical Team - 2nd day of clinic
Kira Griffin reported from Nacaome, Honduras that the medical team treated 440 patients today on their second day of clinic. They will be working in that district of the Honduras UB Church for the remainder of the week.
ESL - Watch Your Language - June 2013
Right now we are in such a beautiful season (spring into summer). It is also a beautiful season of life as we continue to learn in our classroom. When we learn English and also learn thing about the gifts from God that we find constantly are given to us, and a glimpse of the even more beautiful life that God has in store for us because we have placed our hope in Him for our future and final destination. It gives us a lot more to embrace as Christians.
Sometimes our lives area a little crazy especially around this time of the year. Kids are looking forward to getting out of school, gardening, sports and our daily chores along with our daily work away from home, but it is beautiful just the same. When you think about chaotic moments, we can actually realize that God allows this beautiful season to be among us. Yes even chaos. When we look through the craziness and see the goodness and blessing that He has given to us, then we can embrace it and harvest its meaning and serve God alongside of it. I don't know about you, but my house is full of life, I do enjoy the quiet moments that seem rare, but at times it seems so chaotic, then I think of the season, my family is around me, I have been so abundantly blessed. I am so blessed to have the opportunity to shar the English language and share my life experiences, yes even the chaotic ones. We laugh, cry, sing and pray together and this continues to give meaning to life and allows us to serve God in this season - one that continues to grow, blossom and mature till the harvesting season when God will take us to our Eternal reward. Keep watching...............Fonda
Sometimes our lives area a little crazy especially around this time of the year. Kids are looking forward to getting out of school, gardening, sports and our daily chores along with our daily work away from home, but it is beautiful just the same. When you think about chaotic moments, we can actually realize that God allows this beautiful season to be among us. Yes even chaos. When we look through the craziness and see the goodness and blessing that He has given to us, then we can embrace it and harvest its meaning and serve God alongside of it. I don't know about you, but my house is full of life, I do enjoy the quiet moments that seem rare, but at times it seems so chaotic, then I think of the season, my family is around me, I have been so abundantly blessed. I am so blessed to have the opportunity to shar the English language and share my life experiences, yes even the chaotic ones. We laugh, cry, sing and pray together and this continues to give meaning to life and allows us to serve God in this season - one that continues to grow, blossom and mature till the harvesting season when God will take us to our Eternal reward. Keep watching...............Fonda
Pastor's Penpoint - "Summer Vacation" - June 2013
"So then, each of us shall give account of himself to God." Romans 14:12
Kids cannot wait for the day every year when they can holler as they run out of their classrooms; "School's out!" I know in our home there has been a countdown since Christmas break ended. Whew! Another your over and now freedom looms ahead for a few months of good old summertime.
Not true in the school of life however. School's never out until we take our last breath and cross over into eternity. In every day and every season of life we are sitting in God's classroom. We can choose to learn or we can try to zone out - but we certainly can't play hooky!
An older lady I know wisely said, "God has a reason for everything that happens to us in life, even the bad things. I'm not saying He causes the bad stuff but he sure does use it." She's facing diminishing health as she nears 98 and with it, a loss of independence. She sees it as the Lord's hand teaching her to trust and depend on Him. (From what I know of her, I think she is going to end up with an A+ on her final report card).
So how do you feel at this season in your life? Are you ready for a vacation? Do you wish you could drop out of class? Or, are you excited about your lessons right now? Maybe during this season you're taking your favorite subject and acing all your tests.
No matter what, learn all you can now because when that final bell rings there will be no further lessons - or chances. After that "so then each one of us shall give account of himself to God."
How glad will you truly be to holler, "School's out!"
~ Pastor Todd
Kids cannot wait for the day every year when they can holler as they run out of their classrooms; "School's out!" I know in our home there has been a countdown since Christmas break ended. Whew! Another your over and now freedom looms ahead for a few months of good old summertime.
Not true in the school of life however. School's never out until we take our last breath and cross over into eternity. In every day and every season of life we are sitting in God's classroom. We can choose to learn or we can try to zone out - but we certainly can't play hooky!
An older lady I know wisely said, "God has a reason for everything that happens to us in life, even the bad things. I'm not saying He causes the bad stuff but he sure does use it." She's facing diminishing health as she nears 98 and with it, a loss of independence. She sees it as the Lord's hand teaching her to trust and depend on Him. (From what I know of her, I think she is going to end up with an A+ on her final report card).
So how do you feel at this season in your life? Are you ready for a vacation? Do you wish you could drop out of class? Or, are you excited about your lessons right now? Maybe during this season you're taking your favorite subject and acing all your tests.
No matter what, learn all you can now because when that final bell rings there will be no further lessons - or chances. After that "so then each one of us shall give account of himself to God."
How glad will you truly be to holler, "School's out!"
~ Pastor Todd
Monday, May 27, 2013
Memorial Day - A Salute to Our Veterans
The worship service yesterday morning at Mt. Olivet concluded at the entrance gates to the cemetery where 43 veterans of war are buried. Two veterans, Dallas Lam and Herbert Lam, read the names as a salute to those who had served our country. The following is a list of those brave men:
Granville F. Crummet
Leon Daggy
Homer L. Fox
J. Lester Grogg
David Gums
Levi Esten Halterman
Charles W. Hiner
Fred O. Hiner
Oakley Holsinger
Ellet Newton Hoover
Ernest W. Huffer
Clarence E. Huffer
Alfred Knott
Grover T. (Tom) Knott
Meddie Lee Lancaster
Victor John Larkenau
Donnie Michael
James Woodrow Michael
Lawrence R. Michael
Paul J. Michael
Robert Michael
Troy Michael
W. L. Michael
James C. Milstead
Dr. D. Morrison
William Moyer
Elsworth Paris
Edwin P. Puffenbarger
Richard Ralston
Claude Rawley
John Rawley
Warren W. Rawley
Wayman Rawley
John Edmond (Ed) Shank
Kirt L. Simmons
R. William Smith, Sr.
Andrew Sprouse
James L. Staubus
Frank Terrance
Ernest Billy Terry
Leroy Toombs
Emory Daniel Wenger
Elmer Zirk
Thank you veterans!
Sunday, May 26, 2013
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Pastor's Penpoint - The "S" Word - May 2013
"For this is the will of God, your sanctification." (1 Th. 4:3)
The Lord has a grand plan for the life of every person, and it can be summed up in a single word: sanctification. If you are scratching your head about what that term means, you are not alone. Many people - even some longtime Christians - do not know its definition. However, believers should see to it that they acquire that knowledge because it's an important word, and it defines them.
In its verb form - sanctify - the term means "to make holy" or "to separate." So when something is sanctified, it is separated from a common use to a sacred one. In the Old Testament, we are told that the Lord sanctified a number of things: He made the seventh day holy, set side the Levite tribe as priests, and even consecrated places like the Holy of Holies in the tabernacle (Gen. 2:3; Num. 3).
The Lord still sanctifies people today. Before a person receives salvation, he is spiritually dead (Eph. 2:1-3). What's more, Romans 5:10 tells us that before we come to faith, we're actually enemies of God. Yet the moment someone trusts in Jesus as his personal Savior, his sins are wiped away, and he is adopted into the Lord's family. That individual is then set apart and a child of God for a sacred purpose. This means believers are not here simply to chase after personal gain. Rather, they are to serve God and bring Him honor and glory.
As members of God's family who are called to reflect His glory, believers are referred to as "saints." This word shares a root with sanctification. We are referred to this way, not because we live sinless lives but because we live a life consistent with the One we represent.
God's grace and blessing, Pastor Todd
The Lord has a grand plan for the life of every person, and it can be summed up in a single word: sanctification. If you are scratching your head about what that term means, you are not alone. Many people - even some longtime Christians - do not know its definition. However, believers should see to it that they acquire that knowledge because it's an important word, and it defines them.
In its verb form - sanctify - the term means "to make holy" or "to separate." So when something is sanctified, it is separated from a common use to a sacred one. In the Old Testament, we are told that the Lord sanctified a number of things: He made the seventh day holy, set side the Levite tribe as priests, and even consecrated places like the Holy of Holies in the tabernacle (Gen. 2:3; Num. 3).
The Lord still sanctifies people today. Before a person receives salvation, he is spiritually dead (Eph. 2:1-3). What's more, Romans 5:10 tells us that before we come to faith, we're actually enemies of God. Yet the moment someone trusts in Jesus as his personal Savior, his sins are wiped away, and he is adopted into the Lord's family. That individual is then set apart and a child of God for a sacred purpose. This means believers are not here simply to chase after personal gain. Rather, they are to serve God and bring Him honor and glory.
As members of God's family who are called to reflect His glory, believers are referred to as "saints." This word shares a root with sanctification. We are referred to this way, not because we live sinless lives but because we live a life consistent with the One we represent.
God's grace and blessing, Pastor Todd
Friday, April 5, 2013
Upcoming Events
Sunday April 7: SKIDs and TIDs from noon until 4pm
Saturday April 13: The youth pick up trash along Freemason Run Road
Saturday April 13: Clean up at the church
Sunday April 28: Annual Homecoming Service with lunch to follow
Saturday April 13: The youth pick up trash along Freemason Run Road
Saturday April 13: Clean up at the church
Sunday April 28: Annual Homecoming Service with lunch to follow
Pastor's Penpoint - Now, the Hard Part - April 2013
"Take a guard," Pilate answered. "Go, make the tomb as secure as you know how." So they went and made the tomb secure by putting a seal on the stone and posting the guard. Matthew 27: 62-66
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Waiting is the hardest part ..."
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
The chief priests and the Pharisees were in a serious jam. The crowds whom they had worked into a frenzy, and whom they had hoped would witness Jesus being exposed as a fraud, instead witnessed the sun being eclipsed and the earth shaking; rumors about the temple curtain being torn open were flying around Jerusalem. The event they had hoped would make them religious heroes had backfired big-time. And the crisis wasn't over... Judas had told them that Jesus had spoken of being raised from the dead on the third day. Jesus was dead and in the tomb for now, but if they were going to maintain control of the people, they would have to make sure Jesus stayed there.
The hearts of the Pharisees and priests were hardened beyond the point of seeing God's power at work. Instead of spending the Sabbath meditating on Scripture and resting as God commanded, they spent it plotting to keep the tomb sealed. They were breaking the same commandment that they had tried to trap Jesus into breaking so many times. The disciples, in the meantime, were hiding out in the upper room, observing the Sabbath more out of exhaustion and fear than out of reverence for God. They had forgotten that Jesus had told them he would rise again on the third day.
The Pharisees thought they could keep the Son of God behind a rock by sealing it with wax and posting a guard. They dreaded Sunday because they feared Jesus would somehow come back. The disciples, on the other hand, had forgotten that it was the Son of God behind the rock. They dreaded Sunday because they feared he was not coming back.
Now, the hard part ... we must neither fear nor forget that Jesus is coming back. Fear means we either do not believe, or are unsure we will be prepared. Forgetting means we have either taken him for granted or underestimated him. He promised his disciples that he would rise again, and he did; he promised us he will come again, and he will.
~ Pastor Todd
Saturday, March 2, 2013
Pastor's Penpoint - Looking Forward - March 2013
"Whoever wishes to be my follower must deny his very self, take up his cross each day, and follow in my steps." Luke 9:23
March is a special time for many reasons this year. We see the clocks spring forward, which means longer evenings to enjoy the sunlight that will most certainly be ushered in by the return of spring. It is also at the heart of Lent and self-denial - a time when we consider not only Christ's sacrifice for us, but what we would and are willing to give up as a tribute for His suffering and passion. This will ultimately end with Holy week, our Maundy Thursday service where we will celebrate the Lord's Supper and finally the biggest and most celebrates day on the Christian calendar, Easter Sunday! ... where our faith and hope were secured with the news of an empty tomb and a risen savior.
Nowhere near as important, but noteworthy, is the return of the Lilley family to Mt. Olivet after a much needed and appreciated sabbatical. This has been a time of intense focus as I helped plan the capital campaign at Bridgewater Retirement Community. At my leaving BRC, the campaign had raised almost 60% of their goal and are poised to continue on with a successful campaign. Also during sabbatical, I had to make one of the most difficult decisions to date with regards to my career. That was the decision to leave all I knew at BRC and accept a position at Bridgewater College. Those conversations stretch way back to May of 2012 - and the final decision was not made until the first week of January 2013. I was happy to offer BRC seven weeks' notice, and officially began my new position at the College on February 25, 2013. It seems transition is a familiar friend of mine!
I want you to know that this sabbatical was also a time for me to look deeply at myself - our family plan, my motivations, faith and all the other little thing that made sleep difficult for several months. Far from figuring it all out, I am returning with a clearer picture of at least the direction I am heading and how that will impact my family, church and career. So you see, it was not just time off ... it was time focused. My deepest appreciation to Pastor Dan, the administrative board, the PRC, Sunday School teachers and everyone who has stepped up and filled in the gap during our absence. I pray God will bless you as you have so blessed His church.
At the writing of this article, I have prepared sermons through the end of June, and will hopefully add a few more by our return on March 17th. After Holy Week, we will begin a month long series in April entitled "Be Thou My Vision" which is based on the life and ministry of Nehemiah in the Old Testament. Truthfully these sermons are a bit heavy on Scripture and less on stories - but this was a series that I needed to consider in my own life, and hope you will find it helpful as well.
We look forward to March 17th and appreciate your continued prayers as we let the dust settle and hopefully return to a God inspired routine.
God's grace, peace and love, P.T.
March is a special time for many reasons this year. We see the clocks spring forward, which means longer evenings to enjoy the sunlight that will most certainly be ushered in by the return of spring. It is also at the heart of Lent and self-denial - a time when we consider not only Christ's sacrifice for us, but what we would and are willing to give up as a tribute for His suffering and passion. This will ultimately end with Holy week, our Maundy Thursday service where we will celebrate the Lord's Supper and finally the biggest and most celebrates day on the Christian calendar, Easter Sunday! ... where our faith and hope were secured with the news of an empty tomb and a risen savior.
Nowhere near as important, but noteworthy, is the return of the Lilley family to Mt. Olivet after a much needed and appreciated sabbatical. This has been a time of intense focus as I helped plan the capital campaign at Bridgewater Retirement Community. At my leaving BRC, the campaign had raised almost 60% of their goal and are poised to continue on with a successful campaign. Also during sabbatical, I had to make one of the most difficult decisions to date with regards to my career. That was the decision to leave all I knew at BRC and accept a position at Bridgewater College. Those conversations stretch way back to May of 2012 - and the final decision was not made until the first week of January 2013. I was happy to offer BRC seven weeks' notice, and officially began my new position at the College on February 25, 2013. It seems transition is a familiar friend of mine!
I want you to know that this sabbatical was also a time for me to look deeply at myself - our family plan, my motivations, faith and all the other little thing that made sleep difficult for several months. Far from figuring it all out, I am returning with a clearer picture of at least the direction I am heading and how that will impact my family, church and career. So you see, it was not just time off ... it was time focused. My deepest appreciation to Pastor Dan, the administrative board, the PRC, Sunday School teachers and everyone who has stepped up and filled in the gap during our absence. I pray God will bless you as you have so blessed His church.
At the writing of this article, I have prepared sermons through the end of June, and will hopefully add a few more by our return on March 17th. After Holy Week, we will begin a month long series in April entitled "Be Thou My Vision" which is based on the life and ministry of Nehemiah in the Old Testament. Truthfully these sermons are a bit heavy on Scripture and less on stories - but this was a series that I needed to consider in my own life, and hope you will find it helpful as well.
We look forward to March 17th and appreciate your continued prayers as we let the dust settle and hopefully return to a God inspired routine.
God's grace, peace and love, P.T.
Monday, February 11, 2013
From Pastor Dan's Desk
1 John 1:5-7 tells us about fellowship. "This, then, is the message which we have heard of him, and declared unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin."
Fellowship is an excellent way to connect with God's family. Fellowship is the foundation for spiritual growth and an intimate connection with God's family. A few people who really know you and who earn your trust provide a place to experience the life Jesus invites you to live.
Fellowship is very important in a Christinan's life. There are many ways that we can fellowship. We normally think of a carry-in meal with church people after a church service. But you can also visit, call on the phone, write a note, and many other ways. Which way do you fellowship with other people? Do you take in a meal when a neighbor or church member is sick or has just come home from the hospital? Do you help with chores when someone cannot do theirs because of health issues? Our church and the other churches in the area help many in need each year.
John mentions many times in his scripture about saying you are something when you are not. 1 John 2: 4 states: "He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him." It is very important for Christians to be what they say they are. Think of something you can do this week for a friend or neighbor and go out and do it. Many times we pray for someone or something to happen and then wait for it to happen. Maybe God is telling us to put legs on the prayer and go out to do the chore ourselves.
February 27, 2013, Nathan Boggs and his family will be with us for the Sunday morning worship service. He is the director of Laurel Mission in Big Laurel, KY. We will have a carry-in meal following the worship service. Plan to attend and invite a friend.
Remember, we will be taking a mission team to Laurel Mission on August, 3-8, 2013. Please plan to go with the team if you have never been on a short-term mission team. The cost is minimal.
Remember, your future depends on many things, but mostly on you.
In His name,
Dan Lam
Fellowship is an excellent way to connect with God's family. Fellowship is the foundation for spiritual growth and an intimate connection with God's family. A few people who really know you and who earn your trust provide a place to experience the life Jesus invites you to live.
Fellowship is very important in a Christinan's life. There are many ways that we can fellowship. We normally think of a carry-in meal with church people after a church service. But you can also visit, call on the phone, write a note, and many other ways. Which way do you fellowship with other people? Do you take in a meal when a neighbor or church member is sick or has just come home from the hospital? Do you help with chores when someone cannot do theirs because of health issues? Our church and the other churches in the area help many in need each year.
John mentions many times in his scripture about saying you are something when you are not. 1 John 2: 4 states: "He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him." It is very important for Christians to be what they say they are. Think of something you can do this week for a friend or neighbor and go out and do it. Many times we pray for someone or something to happen and then wait for it to happen. Maybe God is telling us to put legs on the prayer and go out to do the chore ourselves.
February 27, 2013, Nathan Boggs and his family will be with us for the Sunday morning worship service. He is the director of Laurel Mission in Big Laurel, KY. We will have a carry-in meal following the worship service. Plan to attend and invite a friend.
Remember, we will be taking a mission team to Laurel Mission on August, 3-8, 2013. Please plan to go with the team if you have never been on a short-term mission team. The cost is minimal.
Remember, your future depends on many things, but mostly on you.
In His name,
Dan Lam
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Heart for Hunger - Missions Dinner
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