July 26 Sermon and Announcements

ALL ARE WELCOME

Acts 10:9-35

We are continuing to look at how God is moving in the early church. Here in Acts chapter 10, we read about some things happening to Peter. We see that God uses Peter’s hunger for food as a way to get a new understanding of God’s plan across to him. As Peter is thinking about the food he hopes to soon eat, God showed him virtually every kind of life God had created. Once Peter sees them all, he tells God, no Jewish person is supposed to have anything to do with them. But God tells him three times to kill and eat. Peter tells God, “No I would never eat some of these, they are unclean.” God tells Peter what I have called clean is clean. Peter resisted but God repeated his response. 


Then almost immediately after this vision, some men who had been sent by a Roman centurion named Cornelius came knocking. In the same vision as the ones about the animals, Peter was told to go with the men. Peter willingly went with the men to see Cornelius. Once there he explained how a Jewish person had been taught never to have contact with a Gentile. However, God has revealed the kingdom of God was truly available to all who honored and accepted Jesus Christ, whether they are Jew or Gentile.

We see in Luke 10:23-39 that Jesus was setting the stage for what was to come. This is the story of the Good Samaritan. If you recall, a man was travelling from Jerusalem when he was robbed and beaten. Two Jewish leaders saw him as they walked on their way to Jericho but walked right on by. However, another man, a Samaritan, saw him and helped him get to the next town, even paid for his room and someone to help him. This might not be such a big deal but Samaritans are Gentiles. They know Jewish people hate them. Two Jewish men refused to help their fellow Jew. But a Samaritan was willing to do everything he could to help this Jewish man who was in need. Jesus was laying the foundation for what Peter and ultimately Paul would reveal. 


God’s message is “ALL ARE WELCOME.” Many Jewish Christians thought you first had to be a Jew before you could truly become a Christian. However, Peter understood God is calling all who will receive. You do not have to pass a certain test. You do not have to measure up to someone’s standard. God is calling us all. Sometimes I am afraid churches get in God’s way by requiring us to look or talk or act a certain way before you can really be included. In these verses in Acts and also what Jesus said in Luke, we learn that God looks at our hearts. He looks at our attitude. If some things need to change, the Holy Spirit will show us where those things are. God is reaching out to a world that desperately needs Jesus Christ. We, in the church, should not make it harder than it has to be. To go back to the classic verse, we all know John 3:16—For God so loved the world he gave his only begotten son that whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life. That is the message God wants us to tell. Everyone who realizes they cannot do it alone is welcome and that is all of us. All are welcome. We are all a work in progress. The work God is doing in us will never be done till we are in his presence for eternity. Until that time, God is offering the same invitation to all. ALL ARE WELCOME. No one will be turned away if you have an open heart. It does not matter where we have been or what we have done. God will welcome us all into his family because it is really true. ALL ARE WELCOME! 

Larry

Announcements

Every Tuesday: Bible Study 9:30

August 9: Special Council Meeting after worship

August 12 7:00 p.m.: Executive Committee

NO Women’s Fellowship meeting in August. We were going to collect supplies for health kits, but in view of our circumstances right now, the co-presidents decided it would be more feasible to collect monetary donations from our women/congregation toward making them. We will send these donations to Church World Service which can then purchase the supplies for the kits themselves. The kits are always made on behalf of CWS and shipped out from our own Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, MD. $15 will purchase a kit; please give your donation to Kathy Gentry, Carol Kussart, or Nancy Fansler by the end of August. If you are writing a check, make it out to Women’s Fellowship.

Offerings are still being collected in the back of the sanctuary. We are thankful to all who are faithful in bringing them or mailing them. (PO Box 45)

Please remember to lock the doors when you are the last one to leave the church. We have found unlocked doors on occasion in the past month or so.

If you have copier issues, please let Carol know.

The board agreed to continue worship as we have been having it. We will worship in the sanctuary at 10:00 for those who feel comfortable coming. Physical distancing must be maintained and the wearing of face masks, please. We will also continue the facebook live service for those who wish to stay home. Sunday School is at 9:00.

The Strawberry Festival cleared $877 which will be split evenly between Women’s and Men’s Fellowships. Thanks to those who donated pie crusts and time, to the person who donated our pie-making supplies, and to anyone else who helped in any way.

Upper Room and Daily Bread: issues available in the back of the sanctuary

First Sunday of the month: Food Banks

The Lord’s Storehouse can particularly use peanut butter and jelly—they are hard to come by and jelly is expensive for them to purchase through their warehouse.

Donation Box July and August: AC bills

Keep up on denominational happenings at www.brethren.org and district at www.iwdcob.org

Larry Traxler’s phone #: 217-454-2362   

Keep in Your Prayers

Mike Gentry; Junior Traxler; Anna Gentry Thompson; Larry Cripe; Arnold Schultz; Clyde and Nancy Fansler; Adiline Young; Barb Baker; Kim Lehmann; Dylan Junior; Doug Fansler; Liam Martina; Ali Bryant; Jeff Sawyer; Liza Yore; Candy Dobson; Anna Rose Larrick; Gary Jesse; Norm & Marge Starr; Shawn Cain; Robert Cripe; Mayo Hanaver; Zola Copeland and family; Jennifer Like; Patty Cripe; Lauren Gross; Stacie Warren; Nancy Gorrell; many unspoken requests; Coronavirus crisis; healthcare workers and first responders; the families of the 146,000+ people who have died from COVID-19

Military and Other Services and their families

Brethren Volunteer Service workers; Disaster project workers

July 19 Sermon

WHO CAN YOU TRUST?

ACTS 9:20-31

I would like for us to take a few minutes looking at Saul’s amazing journey. Last week we read he was headed to Damascus to arrest, possibly even see to it the more radical Christians were put to death. But as he approached Damascus something happened. A bright light came from nowhere dropping Saul to his knees. He then heard someone other than those travelling with him talking. I am convinced they were out in the middle of nowhere when this happened. Not sure how many were traveling with Saul, but I cannot help but think they all looked at each other as if to say it was not me. Sometimes I wonder if we read these stories and do not fully accept or give credit for how incredible they are. Have any of you ever, when no one else was around, heard an undeniable voice talking to you? I have not. Would it get your attention if it happened? I would think so. Obviously, it had never happened to Saul before because it got his attention.



Once at Damascus, Saul went to a house God lead him to. God also spoke, as we saw last week, to Ananias. Ananias was told in a vision to go see Saul. Ananias wanted nothing to do with him, but he agreed to go. In part, he probably agreed to go because he thought he was dreaming. I will go and he probably won’t be there. This may have been what he thought. In fact, that is probably what he was hoping would happen, because he knew why Saul was coming to Damascus. Of course, we know it turned out just like Ananias was told in the vision. What an incredible series of events that was life changing for many people then and continues to be used to change lives today! From the verses we read this morning, we see what happened after he had recharged his batteries in Damascus for a few days. He suddenly was transformed from someone seeking out every Christian he could find to destroy to someone who suddenly was leading the charge for Jesus and we see what happened. Virtually everyone, both Christians and Jews, did not know what to think. In the course of just a few days he went from the most committed Jew seeking to stop these Christians who were deceiving the Jews to someone saying, “I was wrong, Jesus is the Messiah, you must accept and believe.”



 When Saul returned to Jerusalem, we see the disciples did not trust him. They thought this was a trap, he was just trying to find the leaders and will arrest and kill them all. For a little while Saul had no one who trusted him. He was seemingly on an island all by himself. Have you ever had that kind of transformation in the way you think about things that led everyone around you to say, “What is going on with him or her?”  Last week I asked the question, “Where are you and I on our journey with Jesus Christ?” Has that journey caused you to stop doing some things that make some of your old friends say, “What’s up with you?” Maybe not as instant a change as happened to Saul, but have you stopped doing some things and started doing others that have truly baffled everyone around you? Obviously, the thing about Saul is that he went full speed for whatever he was passionate about. First, as a committed Jew he was convinced Jesus was not the Son of God, then all of a sudden, changing literally overnight, to Jesus’ most committed supporter.

I do not know how dramatically any of you may have changed your attitude on something you once felt strongly about. Depending on how you once lived your life, some of us saw drastic changes when we became a Christian; others though may be less drastic. For those of you who had a major lifestyle and attitude change, what was the reaction of your friends and family? Were there those saying, “It is just a fad, give them a week or two and he/she will be their same old self.” Were there skeptics saying that it will never last or it is just a phase or even I do not know what kind of game you are playing but I hope you get over it soon? Those who know it is the right thing, were they also doubting it would last? Saul was greeted by all those same questions from both sides to the point that Saul, in just a few days, went from being one of the Jews seeking out Christians to potentially kill them to someone the Jewish leaders wanted to kill.



I do not know if any of you had such a radical change that your “old friends” went from your biggest supporters to your biggest enemies as Saul did, but we must be aware of the fact that if we speak out for Jesus we will not always be loved and embraced by the world around us. That is why it is so important to have a support team in a church and among Christian family members. There was a time seemingly Saul had no one he could trust and no one who trusted him. As we move forward as God’s children, I pray we will realize how much God loves us and how much he cares for each of us. And no matter what happens, just as Saul was never truly alone, we are never alone either. God’s encouragement to us as individuals and as the church are always available. As we read in verse 31 of Acts 9, the Church was strengthened and encouraged by the Holy Spirit. As a result, we read, it grew in numbers living in a respectful fear of the Lord.

Larry


We have no new announcements this week. Please refer to last week's post for them.

July 12 Sermon and Announcements

WHAT IS IT GOING TO TAKE?

ACTS 9:1-19

After a few weeks away from the book of Acts, I would like for us to spend some time this morning picking up the apostles’ story again. The last time we were in Acts we read from Chapter 7. The last verse we read was Acts 7:60. The last sentence of that chapter says, “And Saul was there, giving approval of his death.” That verse was talking about the stoning death of Stephen for his very blunt message to the Jews. We have left out some important things happening through the apostles in Chapter 8, but we are skipping ahead to look at what happened in Chapter 9. Before we dig deeper into verses and Saul’s story, let start by looking at our story. Every one of us has a different story. I am pretty sure most all of you here this morning has gone to church for a long time. Some maybe 5 years, others 10, 20, 30, 40 or more years. As good as that is, that does not guarantee that you have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and become a true Christian. As we look at Saul’s journey today, I would like you to look at your journey to where the Holy Spirit has brought you, just as the Lord is encouraging me to do the same thing. Saul has been a devoted lifelong Jew. He was committed to doing what he thought God would want him to do. Paul, at one point later in Acts, gave his resume of how devoted a Jew he truly was from the minute he could live it out. (Acts 22:1-5) He was serious about stopping the crazy people who were trying to deceive God’s people, so he arrested and saw to it these “Christians” were stopped. That is until one day on the way to Damascus again to arrest Christians; he had a personal encounter with the risen Savior. Of course, Saul had two options, he could believe and accept what was happening or he could reject it. It was obvious, though, God wanted to get Saul’s attention to the point of causing him to be blind literally for several days. We see he was led by those traveling with him to Damascus. Once there, God called a Christian by the name of Ananias to go see Saul. Ananias wanted nothing to do with Saul. He knew what Saul had been doing, persecuting, even killing Christians. But Ananias obediently did what God asked him to do.



As we reflect on the journey Saul took to be where God truly wanted him to be, what about you and me? What has our journey been like? Are we in the early stages of that journey? Has our journey been going on a long time? In all honesty, have we actually ever truly started our journey? This is something only you and our Lord knows what the answer is. Have we had a life changing event to get us started on our journey? Has the Lord used someone to help you get pointed in the right direction? Or has the Lord used you to point someone else in the right direction?



For a couple of minutes, I would like to share with you a story I got to see firsthand. It involves my wife, Cathy, and her father, Herb. Just a brief background, Cathy’s dad was an alcoholic. Cathy’s parents divorced when Cathy was around 12 or 13 years old and he moved back to Springfield. Alcohol was an important part of Cathy’s dad’s life for his entire adult life. Cathy’s grandma (her dad’s mom) came to live at Friendship Hill soon after Cathy and I got married. We would take her grandma to Springfield on occasions to visit. When he was not drinking, he was pretty easy to talk to. However, when he had been drinking it was not very pleasant. On one occasion when our kids were around 6 and 3, we took the kids and Cathy’s grandma to Springfield to visit. He was drunk when we got there and said every profane word under the sun while we were there and after leaving, we both swore we would never expose our kids to that again. To fast forward ahead a few years later, Cathy’s dad was diagnosed with terminal cancer. He really had no one in Springfield to help him. Cathy had an aunt in Springfield who checked in on him but that was pretty limited. Although Cathy had very little contact with her dad over much of the previous years, she felt compelled to do what she could for her dad. In spite of having two young children, she would put them on the bus each morning and immediately leave to go to Springfield to help her dad. In most cases, she would try to be back when our kids got off the bus. Other times her mom and sister helped with the kids. In all honesty, during the week I was not much help because I would leave early and get home late. For almost three months, she would go to Springfield showing love and support to someone who was not the most lovable or supportive most of his life. Over the course of three months, I saw a man transformed from a self-centered, profane person to a thankful, appreciative man. Cathy’s aunt asked her dad if it would be alright if her pastor came to see him. He said yes. A couple of weeks before he died, he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. In the course of a few short months, I saw God transform Herb from a man we would not let our kids near to a man we felt comfortable leaving our young son alone with while we ran some errands. I am convinced Cathy’s dad had an encounter with the risen Savior in large part because Cathy refused to let her dad go.

She refused to let him die alone without hope.



In Saul’s story, we saw Ananias was faithful to God and did what he was called to do. I believe Cathy’s faithfulness to God on her dad’s behalf also changed her dad’s life for eternity and it also changed mine. Again, I ask you what is your story? What has God done to help you get to where you are? As you continue your journey, how is God using you? We must each have that moment when we personally encounter the risen Savior. Sometimes God uses events to bring us to that place. God is asking you and me this morning—What is it going to take? What did it take? We each have story. May we who have strong relationship with the Lord be willing to say, “Lord, here I am, use me.”

Larry

Announcements

July: We will worship in the sanctuary at 10:00 for those who feel comfortable coming. Physical distancing must be maintained and the wearing of face masks, please. We will also continue the facebook live service for those who wish to stay home. Sunday School has started—9:00.

Every Tuesday: Bible Study 9:30

Offerings are still being collected in the back of the sanctuary. We are thankful to all who are faithful in bringing them or mailing them. (PO Box 45)

Please remember to lock the doors when you are the last one to leave the church. We have found unlocked doors on occasion in the past month or so.

If you have copier issues, please let Carol know.

The board voted to not have the food stand or church rummage sale this summer.

The board also agreed to continue worship as we have been having it. Here is something from the NY Times: “Across the U.S., more than 650 cases have been linked to nearly 40 churches, religious events and Christian youth camps — many from the last month. With infection rates soaring in the South and West, some churches that fought to reopen in those regions are being forced to close again.”

We don’t want to be one of those statistics. I know of at least one Church of the Brethren in Virginia that ended up with several cases in their congregation.

Upper Room and Daily Bread: issues available in the back of the sanctuary

THANK YOU: to the people who have been mowing!

to all who helped in any way with our revised edition of the Strawberry Festival!

to the State Bank of Cerro Gordo for the grant money

**************************

First Sunday of the month: Food Banks

Food needs: boxes of cereal, boxes of prepared foods, such as soups, potatoes, rice, mac & cheese, peanut butter, jelly

Donation Box July and August: AC bills

Keep up on denominational happenings at www.brethren.org and district at www.iwdcob.org

Larry Traxler’s phone number: 217-454-2362   

Keep in Your Prayers

Junior Traxler; Anna Gentry Thompson; Larry Cripe; Arnold Schultz; Clyde and Nancy Fansler; Shirley Clarkson; Mike Seidenstricker; Adiline Young; Barb Baker; Kim Lehmann; Dylan Junior; Doug Fansler; Liam Martina; Ali Bryant; Jeff Sawyer; Liza Yore; Candy Dobson; Anna Rose Larrick; Gary Jesse; Norm & Marge Starr; Shawn Cain; Robert Cripe; Mayo Hanaver; Zola Copeland and family; Jennifer Like; Patty Cripe; Lauren Gross; Stacie Warren; Nancy Gorrell; many unspoken requests; Coronavirus crisis; healthcare workers and first responders; the families of the 134,000+ people who have died from COVID-19; Tim Wright who has been exposed to COVID-19.

Military and Other Services and their families

Brethren Volunteer Service workers; Disaster project workers

Joel S. Billi, president of EYN (Church of the Brethren in Nigeria) held a news conference on July 2 in Nigeria. Here is a bit of what he said:

“EYN is the single Christian denomination that is worst hit by the activities of the Boko Haram. Over 700,000 members have been displaced with only 7 out of 60 District Church Councils not directly affected by the insurgency. EYN has lost over 8,370 members and 8 pastors, with the numbers increasing on a daily basis. Many of her members have been abducted, with 217 out of the abducted 276 Chibok school girls belonging to EYN. Over 300 of the 586 churches of EYN have been either burnt or destroyed, with uncountable numbers of houses belonging to our members looted or burnt.”

He also pointed out the continuing attacks, kidnappings, murders, and property destruction. To read all of his press release, go to www.brethren.org/news/  Then click on Newsline for July 7.

July 5 Sermon and Announcements

LET US LIVE AS CHILDREN OF LIGHT! —PART 2

EPHESIANS 5:1-21

Last week what we looked in Ephesians was just the first half of what it means and what we would look like if we are living as children of light. In review I will hit some of the important characteristics from Ephesians 4.  Do not live as the Gentiles do in the futility of your thinking. We are no longer Gentiles, we are Christians. They are separated from God because of ignorance from a hardened heart. Get rid of deceitful desires by having a new godly attitude toward life. Quit lying to one another. It is alright to get angry but do not let it lead to sin. Quit stealing, instead do work, which is good for everyone. Only say things that will build up, not tear down. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit by falling back into your old ways. Eliminate as best we can bitterness rage, anger, brawling, slander, and malice. Instead as God’s people, be kind and compassionate, forgiving because God first has forgiven us of everything. That is the lengthy list of what we saw we should be doing and not doing from last week.

          This week we see in Ephesians 5 more practical application of how we should be acting as children of light. Let us look at these specific things mentioned today. No sexual immortality or any other kind of impurity or greed. No obscenity, foolish talk, or coarse talking. Do not let yourself be deceived with empty words or be partnered with those who are disobedient. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness. It is shameful to even mention what the disobedient do in secret. Do not live as unwise. Do not be foolish. Do not get drunk. This is the specific list of things not to do or be involved with as children of light.

          Now what we should be doing. We are to live a life of love as Christ loved us. Live as children of light, which includes goodness, righteousness, and truth. Expose the darkness. Be careful how you live as the wise. Make the most of every opportunity God gives you. Try hard to understand God’s will. Be filled with the spirit. Sing and make music in your hearts to the Lord always giving thanks to God the Father for everything in Jesus name. Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.

Why are we to do this? Out of our love for God and as we read, we are encouraged to “wake up o sleeper, rise from the dead and Christ will shine on you.” As children of light, we are to be different from the rest of the world. We are to speak up for what through God we know is right that can take a variety of forms. We are to have the courage to celebrate things that are going the right direction in our world and country. Yet at the same time, expose those things that are not right. Last week I acknowledged my own soul searching about what is happening in America at this time. Yesterday this nation remembered our Independence from Great Britain.  This year’s celebrations were much different than any other because of all the things going on in America at this time. The Coronavirus concerns lead to the cancellation of many of the events, not only in our area but in many other parts of the country as well. This nation is also facing other challenges as well at this time.

As I briefly pointed out last week, there is a desire by some to remove statutes and other historic landmarks across the country. This has already happened in many places across this country. There is a group of people who have decided for everyone what is appropriate and what is not. Every historic person is now viewed from the prism of race. The founding fathers of this nation are looked at differently by some now than every before. If they do not measure up to a certain standard, they must somehow be removed from sight. Some of the founders of this nation did some things that were good, but they also did or believed in some things that we now know are wrong. They were not perfect people, just as we are not perfect. Romans 3:23 says all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. The past and present leaders of this nation are no different. We, as a nation, should be willing to look at our past and our present honestly recognizing the things we have done right and yet also acknowledge those sins that did and do still exist. The founders from the very beginning knew this nation would be a work in progress. That is why they with God’s guidance, I am sure, created a constitution that allowed for changes as we the people saw the need arise.

In the midst of the turmoil, this nation faces on several fronts what God’s children, as children of the light, are to do. As we read in Ephesians 4 and 5 what children of light should and should not do, where does that leave us today? Again, what are God’s people to do? First, we should acknowledge this simple truth, we are Christians first. Americans second. One of the things mentioned in these verses is our willingness to expose the darkness wherever that might be, which means we must be willing to look at the entire lives of those men and women from our past and present that have and are currently playing a role in this nation’s history, which leads us to some of what is happening to American today.

This most recent racial divide occurred because of the death of George Floyd by a policeman in Minneapolis. Virtually everyone agrees he should not have died because of his crime. What has happened since in America has taken on a life of its own. While we agree George Floyd should not have died and those who believe this are of all races. We have been more divided by what happened in America ever since. One of the leading groups calling for change in America is called Black Lives Matter. Black Lives Matter has been more than willing to point out the shortcomings, even we might say, the sins of white people past and present. They, however, are ignoring the tragedy that is happening in virtually every major city in America.

This is a brief news story from the Decatur Herald and Review newspaper this past Monday: Shooting across Chicago kill 3 kids--Chicago—Activists and local leaders called for more state and federal support Sunday as weekend shootings across Chicago left three children deal, including a 10-year-old who was struck by a stray bullet that came through an apartment window. The Saturday night death was among at least 10 shooting fatalities since Friday evening, which follow a deadly Father’s Day weekend and fresh concern about a violent summer ahead. A 1-year-old and 17-year-old were also killed. “It’s out of control where even innocent children are losing their lives,” said neighborhood activist Raul Montes Jr., who planned a Sunday evening vigil on the city’s southwest side. He called for federal intervention while a state legislator announced a new task force to address underlying issues.

When was the last time you saw the national news spend any time on this story. This is happening every week across this country in virtually every major city. It is not just a tragic isolated event like what happened to George Floyd. I am sorry for saying this but as a child of the light, I must point out the hypocrisy of Black Lives Matters. One could almost conclude the black lives that matter are those wrongly killed by white people. But if blacks are killing their own across the country, dozens each week, that does not apparently matter. What a tragedy that should not be happening. I do not know what the answer is other than the simple, profound fact this nation needs Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Yes, we need equality for all in this nation. The irony is as many faults as this nation has the fact is millions are coming to this nation every ear both legally and illegally because this nation still gives opportunity for all. Is this nation perfect? No. Is God still using this nation? I believe so. I believe we should be willing to acknowledge the things the men and woman of the past did right that helped us get where we are today while also admitting to the things that have been done wrong in our past as well. As children of light, we must be honest about the things both good and bad as we seek to honor God as responsible Christians and Americans. In closing, the encouragement from God in Chronicles 2 applies if we are serious about seeking God’s help for ourselves and this Nation.

2 Chronicles 7:14-15 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. ¹⁵ Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place.

Announcements

July: We will worship in the sanctuary at 10:00 for those who feel comfortable coming. Physical distancing must be maintained and the wearing of face masks, please. We will also continue the facebook live service for those who wish to stay home.

July 5: 9:00 a.m. Sunday School begins again.

July 7: 9:30 a.m. Bible Study resumes

July 8: Board Meeting 6:15 executive committee, 7:00 commissions, 7:30 board

Please remember to lock the doors when you are the last one to leave the church. We have found unlocked doors on occasion in the past month or so.

If you have copier issues, please let Carol know.

Upper Room and Daily Bread: new issues available in the back of the sanctuary

THANK YOU: to the people who have been mowing!

to all who helped in any way with our revised edition of the Strawberry Festival!

to the State Bank of Cerro Gordo for the grant money

Offerings are still being collected in the back of the sanctuary. We are thankful to all who are faithful in bringing them or mailing them. (PO Box 45)

**************************

First Sunday of the month: Food Banks

Food needs: boxes of cereal, boxes of prepared foods, such as soups, potatoes, rice, mac & cheese, peanut butter, jelly

Donation Box July and August: AC bills

Keep up on denominational happenings at www.brethren.org and district at www.iwdcob.org

Larry Traxler’s phone number: 217-454-2362   

Keep in Your Prayers

Anna Gentry Thompson; Larry Cripe; Arnold Schultz (at Hickory Point Christian Village for rehab); Clyde and Nancy Fansler; Shirley Clarkson; Mike Seidenstricker; Adiline Young; Barb Baker; Kim Lehmann; Dylan Junior; Doug Fansler; Liam Martina; Ali Bryant; Jeff Sawyer; Liza Yore; Candy Dobson; Anna Rose Larrick; Gary Jesse; Norm & Marge Starr; Shawn Cain; Robert Cripe; Mayo Hanaver; Zola Copeland and family; Jennifer Like; Patty Cripe; Lauren Gross; Stacie Warren; Nancy Gorrell; many unspoken requests; Coronavirus crisis; healthcare workers and first responders; the families of the 130,000 people who have died from COVID-19

Military and Other Services and their families

Brethren Volunteer Service workers; Disaster project workers

Joe and Tina Martina thank everyone for their prayers for Joe’s cousin Lou who is now doing well after having COVID-19.

June 28 Sermon and Announcements

LET US LIVE AS CHILDREN OF LIGHT!

EPHESIANS 4:17-32

For the past four months this nation has faced challenges different than any it has ever faced before. The Coronavirus officially started to impact the way Americans conducted life back in early March. Then on Memorial weekend this nation was confronted with yet another tragedy. A policeman in Minneapolis killed a black man by the name of George Floyd. Ever since that day American cities across this country have seen both peaceful protests, chaos and destruction. To begin with the police across this country were being blamed for racism. But now the cry of racism has spread to include everyone in America, more specifically every white person in America. As I have considered all that is going on and what I as a Christian who is white in America should do, I have found myself asking God and seeking honest answers of myself. A variety of media outlets have been saying the same thing. We Americans are racist. Ironically, most of those saying that, that I have seen are white. As I have heard this over the past few weeks, I found myself asking myself this question. Larry, are you a racist? It seems many in the media are convinced if you are white in America you are a racist. So, before I can, with a clear conscience, go forward as a Christian I must answer the question. Am I a racist? And with great reluctance, I feel compelled to ask you the same question. Are you a racist? As professing Christians, we must honestly be able to answer that question. No one can answer that question for you. In reality only God and you really know that answer. The Lord drew me to this scripture we read this morning while I was seeking the Lord about what this nation and its people are facing. These verses force us as Christians to look at our lives honestly. Where we have been, where we are and where with God’s help we will be in the future. The first few verses point out we must rid ourselves of the things that hurt us and separate us from God, including what we think and some of the things we do. In verse 22 and 23, we see we are to put off the old self and to be made new in the attitude of our minds to put on God’s true righteousness and holiness. These verses clearly point out there is no place for racism and prejudice in Christianity. When I began hearing a variety of voices basically calling me a racist I at first was disappointed, then in many ways I became angry. To make a blanket statement that all white people in America are racist offended me. I am not going to take time this morning claiming to show that I am not racist. Words at times are meaningless. Actions speak louder than words. I then had to face my own outrage and anger that I at times felt about what I was hearing. In verse 26, we read, “Be angry but sin not. Do not let the sun go down on your wrath and do not give opportunity to the devil.” These verses tell us it is okay at times to be angry. Just how far we take it and what we do with that anger is the question. I have done a great deal of personal soul searching over the past few weeks. Every man and woman of God must do the same thing. When I think of where we are as a nation it saddens me. A few months ago, this nation was pretty united seeking answers to the Coronavirus. Now we are as divided as we have been in at least the past 60 years. The police are viewed by some in this country as the enemy. I personally know some members of the police force. They are good, honorable men who are trying to do their best at a very difficult job. I believe the overwhelming majority of police across this country are committed, caring men and women trying to do their best for everyone. I also believe the overwhelming majority of people of all races and religion in this country are people trying to live their lives as best they can. So, when I, as a Christian, am told I am a racist, when I see the destruction of personal, private and public property, what should be my response? As Christians what are we to do? In verses 29 through 30, we are reminded how Christians should conduct themselves in everyday life.

1.    Let no unwholesome talk come out of our mouths.

2.    Only saying things to one another that will build one another up.

3.    Do not grieve the Holy Spirit. In other words, do not fall back into old bad habits and destructive behavior we once had.

4.    Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.

5.    On the other hand—be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other.

6.    Why? Because through CHRIST, God has forgiven us.

Okay we see what we as Christians should be doing, the question is how? I have taken some steps to limit what I see, hear and read. The more I heard, the more I watched, the more I read, the more frustrated and, yes, angry at times I got. So, I have made a decision to limit to 1 hour a day what I watch, hear, and read. That may sound like a lot to some of you but when driving a truck, at times I would listen for hours, then go home and watch more at night. I have filled that time instead with Christian broadcasts and simply seeking out the Lord in prayer and meditation.

Romans 12:2 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing, and perfect will.”

In regard to what is happening across the country what are we to do or thing about all these things. I am so thankful to live in a nation that allows for peaceful protests and demonstrations if we feel there is a need for change. That is one of the things that has made this nation so different from others. As a Christian I cannot support the destruction of property by a group who has decided on their own what is appropriate and what is not. I must admit I have no idea what it is like to be black or of any other race in America today. I was born into a white middle class home and family. I had nothing to do with it. We Christians are compelled by God to treat all people with respect, dignity, and honor. It should never matter what color of skin you have or where you came from. But even Christianity and Christians are under attack as well by some of those protesting right now. This past week there are some saying the pictures in your house or church, the statues or images depicting Jesus look too white. They must be torn down and destroyed. I do not know how many of you many have pictures of Jesus in your homes. The ones we have depict something that reminds us of who Jesus is or what God has done through him for me and everyone else who will receive God’s mercy and grace. In closing we who are Christian must decide what we will and will not do. What to agree with and support and what to say is wrong and inappropriate. I know a couple of things for sure. Anyone who is a racist is not a Christian. Also, anyone who destroys anyone else’s property, no matter what excuse you make, isn’t a Christian either, and this should not be accepted. God is calling you and me to pray for healing for our nation. When we can do things that can bring meaningful change that improves everyone’s lives, by all means do it. But always stand up for God’s holy standard and values. God will honor that, and we will be used by God as examples of what is right and true.

Larry

Announcements

July: We will worship in the sanctuary at 10:00 for those who feel comfortable coming. Physical distancing must be maintained and the wearing of face masks, please. We will also continue the facebook live service for those who wish to stay home.

July 1: Denominational Worship Gathering will take place virtually at 7:00 pm Central. It will center around the theme: “New World Coming!” Two of my cousins (Kendra and Janelle Flory) will be performing a musical number, probably with handbells since that is their forte`.  A children’s worship will take place at 6:30 p.m. www.brethren.org/ac/virtual  Follow the links to connect that evening.

July 2: an online Church of the Brethren concert, also at 7:00 p.m. The link above is the one to connect to the concert as well. Trust me (Carol), all of these events will be very well done and well worth your time to watch.

July 5: 9:00 a.m. Sunday School begins again.

July 7: 9:30 a.m. Bible Study resumes

July 8: Board Meeting

Upper Room and Daily Bread: new issues available in the back of the sanctuary

THANK YOU to the people who have been mowing!!! This chore is greatly appreciated;

to all who helped in any way with our revised edition of the Strawberry Festival; to the State Bank of Cerro Gordo for the grant money that we have received.

**************************

First Sunday of the month: Food Banks

Food needs: boxes of cereal, boxes of prepared foods, such as soups, potatoes, rice, mac & cheese, peanut butter, jelly

This month please consider sending The Lord’s Storehouse a monetary donation. The address is PO Box 229, La Place, IL 61936.

Donation Box June: Vacation Bible School; we host in 2021.

Keep up on denominational happenings at www.brethren.org and district at www.iwdcob.org

Larry Traxler’s phone number: 217-454-2362   

Keep in Your Prayers

Anna Gentry Thompson (improving a little each day—still on pain meds); Arnold Schultz (in rehab); Clyde and Nancy Fansler; Shirley Clarkson; Mike Seidenstricker (back home after being in hospital for infection); Adiline Young; Barb Baker; Kim Lehmann; Dylan Junior; Doug Fansler; Liam Martina; Ali Bryant; Jeff Sawyer; Liza Yore; Candy Dobson; Anna Rose Larrick; Gary Jesse; Norm & Marge Starr; Shawn Cain; Robert Cripe; Mayo Hanaver; Zola Copeland and family; Jennifer Like; Patty Cripe; Lauren Gross; Stacie Warren; Nancy Gorrell; many unspoken requests; Coronavirus crisis; healthcare workers and first responders; the 125,000+ people who have died from COVID-19

Military and Other Services and their families

Brethren Volunteer Service workers; Disaster project workers

Joe and Tina Martina thank everyone for their prayers for Joe’s cousin Lou who is now doing well after having COVID-19.

Prayers and cards of encouragement are requested for:

Zola Copeland – 214 E. Fitch St. Forsyth, IL 62535-9668

Anna Rose Larrick – C/O Evergreen Place #110

4825 E. Evergreen Ct. Decatur IL 62521

Shawn Cain – 208 West Wait St. Cerro Gordo IL 61818

Robert Cripe – 21 Park Street Danville IL 61832

June 21 Sermon and Announcements

THANK YOU, DADS!

GENESIS 27:27-40

Today I would like to share two different stories about dads from the Bible. As we celebrate what it means to be a dad, I want to recognize and say thank you to the dads here this morning and those watching online today. Just as we celebrated moms about a month ago and recognized the vital role women have played in our lives, I would like to do the same thing for our dads and those special men that have been so important to us during our lives. As I said I would like us to look at two dads from scripture. One in the Old Testament and one from the New Testament. First off let us look at what we can learn from Isaac and the way he dealt with his two sons. What we read was the second part of something going on between two brothers. To tell a little background without reading it all, we see two brothers named Jacob and Esau. In Genesis 25, we see how they were born and how things went as they grew up. In the 27^th and 28^th verses of the 25^th chapter, we read the boys grew up and Esau became a skillful hunter, a man of the open country while Jacob was a quiet man, staying among the tents. Isaac, who had a taste for wild game loved Esau, but Rebekah loved Jacob. So, we see their dad had a special place in his heart for Esau who was the first born, but his mom had stronger feelings for Jacob. We skipped quite a bit by reading those small portions of scripture but in chapter 25 it showed us a little bit of how Esau thought about things. At this time, there were two really big deals that happened to the oldest son. One was the birthright; the second was the blessing. The birthright had to do about inheritance and leadership within the family. In chapter 25, we can see in 29-34 verses that Esau was more concerned about putting food in his stomach than the birthright, so he sold it to Jacob for some food. What we then read in chapter 27 has to do with his blessing--that also had great significance at this time. Children craved their father’s blessing. We see a couple of things happening here. Jacob’s mother helped Jacob trick his dad into giving him Esau’s blessing. As we read, we saw what the blessing said. When it was too late to take it back, Isaac realized what had happened. In verse 36 we read, though, Esau was not totally honest with his dad. He said Jacob took his birthright, which is not exactly correct. Esau sold it willingly for some food. But we see his dad’s love and compassion for Esau. Isaac knew he could not change Jacob’s blessing. It was binding before God, but he did what he could. Esau’s blessing acknowledged Esau’s life will be hard, but he would break the chains to his brother at some point. Isaac was a loving father that knew his one son would do alright. He had the birthright and the blessing. But he wanted Esau to also know I love you and I feel the hurt you feel.

Now I would like to quickly shift to the New Testament and share the story of the prodigal son. We find this story in Luke 15:11-32. Most all of us have read this story many times or heard it talked about in Sunday School or from the pulpit. I am not going to read it this morning. I will simply retell it to refresh our memories. As I am sure you recall, there was a dad who also had two sons. At some point, the younger son told his dad I want my portion of your inheritance. Apparently at this time that was something that you could ask for. So, his dad gave him what he would inherit. He left for what he probably wanted to believe would be fame and fortune, but the exact opposite occurred. In a short time, he was broke. He reduced himself to working on a pig farm, something no Jewish person would ever do, to try to get by. Before long he realized his dad’s hired men had it much better off than he did. I am going back home he said to himself. Not as a son but as a hired man. His dad saw him coming from a distance and said to some of his men we are going to have a party. To the younger son’s credit, he admitted he deserved nothing from his dad. He just wanted a job. When the older brother heard all the commotion and found out it was for his wayward younger brother, he was mad. How could you do this dad? It is not fair. But he explained to his oldest son all this will some day be yours. I appreciate your dedication and commitment, but I thought I would never see your brother again. I love you son, but I never stopped praying for and loving your younger brother. As we look at these two dads, we see men who loved their sons. Obviously, it could have been about daughters just as well. These are dads who showed God’s love, God’s mercy, God’s compassion and yet also showed God’s integrity. This Father’s Day I hope you all first off have some good memories of your dads, whether they are still alive today or have already gone ahead and are in the presence of the Lord. The truth is none of our dads were perfect, but I pray you can remember how God used your dad or an important father figure to help you become the person of God you are today. And for the dads here today or watching where you are, God still has important work for you to do. You men of God are being watched all the time. We must continue to step up and accept the challenge God has placed before us. I have been so blessed to not only have a great dad but also some great men who modeled God the Father to me. So, to all you men today, I encourage you in the Lord to keep doing your best. God will use you in a mighty way. Thank you and have a great Father’s Day! With God’s help, we will make a difference in our families and in our part of the world that the Lord has placed you in.

Larry

Announcements

June: We will worship in the sanctuary at 10:00 for those who feel comfortable coming. Physical distancing must be maintained and the wearing of face masks, please. We will also continue the facebook live service for those who wish to stay home. We have not started Sunday School yet.

July 1: Denominational Worship Gathering will take place virtually at 7:00 pm Central. It will center around the theme: “New World Coming!” Two of my cousins will be performing a musical number, probably with handbells since that is their forte`.  A children’s worship will take place at 6:30 p.m. www.brethren.org/ac/virtual  Follow the links to connect that evening.

July 2: an online Church of the Brethren concert, also at 7:00 p.m. The link above is the one to connect to the concert as well. Trust me (Carol), all of these events will be very well done and well worth your time to watch.

July 8: Board Meeting

Daily Bread: June – August issue is available.

THANK YOU to the people who have been mowing!!! This chore is greatly appreciated.

THANK YOU to all who helped in any way with our revised edition of the Strawberry Festival!! We will report the proceeds when we have finalized the figures, but it was successful.

THANK YOU to the State Bank of Cerro Gordo for the grant money that we have received.

**************************

First Sunday of the month: Food Banks

Food needs: boxes of cereal, boxes of prepared foods, such as soups, potatoes, rice, mac & cheese, peanut butter, jelly

This month please consider sending The Lord’s Storehouse a monetary donation. The address is PO Box 229, La Place, IL 61936.

Donation Box June: Vacation Bible School; we host in 2021.

Keep up on denominational happenings at www.brethren.org and district at www.iwdcob.org

Larry Traxler’s phone number: 217-454-2362   

Keep in Your Prayers

Anna Gentry Thompson; Arnold Schultz; Steve Fansler; Clyde and Nancy Fansler; Shirley Clarkson; Mike Seidenstricker; Adiline Young; Barb Baker; Kim Lehmann; Dylan Junior; Doug Fansler; Liam Martina; Ali Bryant; Jeff Sawyer; Liza Yore; Candy Dobson; Anna Rose Larrick; Gary Jesse; Norm & Marge Starr; Shawn Cain; Robert Cripe; Mayo Hanaver; Zola Copeland and family; Jennifer Like; Patty Cripe; Lauren Gross; Stacie Warren; Nancy Gorrell; many unspoken requests; Coronavirus crisis; healthcare workers and first responders; Joe Martina’s cousin who has COVID-19; the families of the 120,000+ people who have died from COVID-19; protesters

Military and Other Services and their families

Brethren Volunteer Service workers; Disaster project workers

Prayers and cards of encouragement are requested for:

Zola Copeland – 214 E. Fitch St. Forsyth, IL 62535-9668

Anna Rose Larrick – C/O Evergreen Place #110

4825 E. Evergreen Ct. Decatur IL 62521

Shawn Cain – 208 West Wait St. Cerro Gordo IL 61818

Robert Cripe – 21 Park Street Danville IL 61832