Sunday Reflections - July 26, 2016

HEY, HAVE YOU READ A GOOD BOOK LATELY?

Sometimes Summer provides a chance to slow down a bit and catch your breath.  It might even provide you with a chance to pick up a good book. Have you ever spent any time getting acquainted with Jesus’ family?  According to the Gospels, He had some brothers and sisters. We don’t really hear much about them. But, there is actually one of his brothers who penned one of the 66 books in the Bible. His name? James.

James grew up as Jesus' kid brother and went from incredulous skeptic to die-hard believer. He became one of the most influential pastors in the history of the world, proclaiming that his big brother was our sinless Savior right up to the day they killed him - it was the only way to silence him.

The Book of James is one of the most exciting parts of the New Testament. It has a hard-hitting punch and is a handbook for daily living. This sometimes catches readers off guard and at the same time gives them many practical insights for life.

We’re getting ready to begin our next series walking through the chapters of James.  I can’t wait to experience this in-depth look with you.  It starts this Sunday.  By the way, this is one of those perfect times to invite a friend or neighbor to a Bible study that will be both encouraging and adventuresome. We begin this week learning about James – quite an amazing fellow.  He’s written a letter that had you in mind – a follower of the Messiah. 

WARNING: James gets quite personal.  Better wear your steel toed shoes!

Let me wrap up here quickly with 2 things:

#1. An outstanding day at Deer Flat was had on Sunday!  All of us who were able to be at church were deeply touched by the way God used our special guest, Philip Zimmermann.  His challenge for us was to join God where He is at work in the dark valleys of our world.  It was a great chance to renew our zeal to partner with the Master in His work during these challenging days of living in a changing world.  Thank you for being the kind of Christ followers that thrive on making a difference!!

#2. We’re running a bit behind in our finances.  We fell just short of our budget in June and a bit shorter this month.  You guys ALWAYS do a great job when it comes to giving and generosity.  Let’s see if we can close the gap and end the month right on track. 

Have a great week!

Pastor D

Sunday Reflections - July 14, 2016

July 14, 2016

Hello Deer Flat Family,

I wanted to scratch out a note before the end of the week and just tell you how much I appreciate your participation in the VOTE last weekend.  I was reminded again of what a tremendous group of people you are. It was an amazingly strong vote! There was a letter sent out this week from the Church Board with the results of the vote and some next steps.  If you did not get that letter, just click here.  I think you’ll really value their wisdom.

Jer and I, along with 22 others are headed to Washington DC for the Christians United For Israel Summit.  There will be thousands gathering from across the US for this event.  We will receive the latest information on what is happening in Israel and the Middle East, and the current climate between the US and Israel.

As usual, we, along with the host of others, will make our trek up to Capitol Hill and visit the office of every elected official.  We will present to them the most important issues regarding Israel and the persecution of Christians.  I believe this will be a significant year.  As you know, this election will have a definite impact on Israel.  I ask you to pray for us as we appeal for pro-Israel legislation.

Our High School Camp has been taking place this week.  We have a record attendance of students this year.  The investment opportunities in the lives of children and students during these camps is nothing short of amazing.  We get to download the biblical truths in them, provide fellowship and friendship, great activities and a spiritual challenge - doing all that we can to anchor them in the faith.  Each of you help make that possible by your giving and your volunteering.  We have teams of people who serve at each camp and we have groups of people to make up the Work Days during Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend.  We couldn’t do it without you!  You guys are making a difference and our prayer is that a Deer Flat Camp at Camp Cascade will create countless changed lives and tremendous memories.

Next week is the Children’s camp.  If you have any interest in volunteering, please let the office know.  We may have a slot or two left to fill.  Again, this is a great thing to keep in your prayers.

Thank you for your faithfulness during these summer months.  God uses you to be such a blessing to Deer Flat!

Loving You and Him,

Pastor D

Sunday Reflections - July 7, 2016

AN OUTSTANDING AND IMPORTANT SUNDAY AWAITS YOU AT DEER FLAT

It’s already July and I am hoping you’re enjoying the summer as much as me. If you haven’t had a chance to get away, I encourage you to make some time before we get to the end of these amazing summer days!

Thank you for your faithfulness during these summer days. Thank you for standing by the church financially. Thank you for your generosity. We just couldn’t do it without you. Each of you are helping make a difference in the lives of many people. This is what I love about the people of Deer Flat Church.

Well, we are quickly approaching a very important vote that will impact our future in quite a substantial way. Your participation is needed and valued!  So let me help us with a bit of IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

#1. VOTING WILL BE AVAILABLE HERE BEGINNING TOMORROW (FRIDAY) AT 5 PM AND CONTINUING UNTIL SUNDAY AT 3 PM. Voting will also be available by paper ballot Sunday ALL morning so that you can vote in person.

#2. Because any “YES” vote also includes a commitment, here are a variety of ways to commit…

1.      A financial commitment.  Pledges can be made for a length of 36 months

2.      Donating something of value – a boat, vehicle, property, stock, etc.

3.      What might you be able to sell on Craigslist?  Why not sell it and donate the proceeds?

4.      Volunteer – We will need skilled labor of various kinds.  Be a part of the clean-up crew that will prepare the building each week for Sunday services.

The load will be light if we are all committed. It will be exciting to see what we can do together when God adds His difference-making touch. Our time, talents and treasure, put in God’s hand can be huge. Throughout Scripture, God affirms the few, the small, and the insignificant who live by faithfulness rather than forcefulness . . . God is willing to spare Sodom and Gomorrah if only ten righteous people can be found. Christ is present where two or three gather in His Name. The widow’s mite is the largest gift. The boy with a few loaves and fish provides food for thousands. Jesus fed five thousand but only shared the Lord’s Supper with the Twelve and was revealed to the two in Emmaus as they broke bread. The mustard seed, the pearl of great price, the leaven in the loaf, the lost sheep and coin, the sparrows, and the numbered hairs on a person’s head are all powerful signs that small can be amazingly mighty.

I can’t wait to see you Sunday!  Let’s come expecting, praying and ready to exercise our faith.

Loving You and Him,

Pastor D