Community Updates from Dr. Bob: 7/5/2023
As each of us is living and loving like Jesus, we are also experiencing him. We also see where he is working with others, and we see what he is doing.
He [Jesus] also said, “This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. All by itself the soil produces grain—first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head.” Mark 4:26-28
We are participants in God’s great plan of redemption. That takes the pressure off of us. The results aren’t up to us. The results are up to God.
We have only to take whatever next steps God is calling us to. We pay attention, participate, engage, put ourselves out there on the front lines of making disciples. Our role is to offer service to others and engage. As we do so, we’ll be able to see where and in whom God is working. That’s true at school, at work, in our neighborhoods… wherever God has placed us.
A Work of Art – Children and Youth Welcome!
We have a new four-week Art Workshop starting July 13th. Students ages 10 and up are welcome. Together we will meditate on scripture and allow the Holy Spirit to speak to us as we create paintings (acrylic or watercolor). This workshop is just one of many ways we can love God with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength. In fact, G.G. Crawley, our facilitator for this course, designed the workshop in line with a vision God gave her and the spiritual gifts she possesses. It’s part of her investment in the next generation. We all process differently: come see what God may do! Get details and sign up HERE.
Depression: Changes that Restore
Depression affects all of us to varying degrees, temporarily or persistently, and Christians are not exempt. It doesn’t always mean an overwhelming sense of gloom and doom. It can be, for example, discouragement or sadness more than we would like, lack of motivation, and preferring to withdraw rather than being in groups. Debbie Case will lead a 6-week series beginning on Thursday night, July 20 from 6:30-8:00 p.m. to explore changes that can begin to restore hope, inner strength and provide spiritual support. Elaine Tisler has opened her home in Upland for this group. Sign up HERE.
Prayer focus
Be sure to keep praying for our students and adult counselors as they experience God at camp this week.
Romans 5:1-2 (NLT) – Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace[a] with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.
