Community News 1/8/2025
COMMUNITY,
Pray with me:
Heavenly Father, Almighty and Everlasting God,
We come before You in awe of Your majesty, even as the world around us shakes. We confess that in these moments of disaster, when the earth trembles, winds roar, fires rage, we are reminded of our frailty. But You, God, are unshaken. You are the Rock of Ages, unmoving and steadfast in Your love.
We lift up those who are suffering right now. We pray for those who have been forced from their homes. We pray for those who are confused and lost in the chaos. We pray for those picking up the pieces. Homes have been destroyed, lives turned upside down, and hearts filled with fear and uncertainty. Yet, You, Lord, are not distant. You are the God who speaks peace into the storm and whispers hope into the chaos. We ask now, in Your mercy, that You would be their shelter in the midst of this storm.
Father, let Your presence be felt by those who are grieving. Comfort the brokenhearted, strengthen the weak, and provide for every need. Where fear would take root, plant instead the seeds of faith. Where hope seems lost, shine the light of Christ, our Living Hope.
We ask, Lord, that You would raise up Your people as agents of compassion and care. Let us be Your hands and feet to those in need. Let us take this opportunity to love our neighbors well. May our prayers, our gifts, and our presence be a testimony of Your love to a world in such need of Your grace.
We pray now, also, for those who are sacrificing on behalf of others. Protect the firefighters, police, first responders, linesmen, and others serving in the moment and the days to come. Draw these near, O Lord.
We trust in Your promises, and we cling to the knowledge that You are our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. May Your glory be revealed, even now, in the midst of this suffering, as You bring redemption and restoration from the ashes.
In the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and King, we pray.
Amen.
—
P.S. While I wanted to prioritize a moment of prayer in the midst of the wind and fires, do be sure to catch a few things happening here at Community this week:
- We raised $19,535 in our Year-End Drive! Thank you for your generosity. It is such a joy to report that outcome – and see how it is blessing others! Kim Chakarian-Jones was overwhelmed by your partnership in building a ministry center for street kids in SE Asia. In addition to a special teacher/staff lunch before Christmas, I delivered a big batch of games to Alta Loma Elementary School yesterday. The principal said it was such an encouragement just to know that there were others who cared! More good things to come. Thank you!
- Our search team finalized our Church Prospectus and Job Description. Check it out HERE. A huge thank you to the search team for the love and hard work that they put into this project. The search is officially opened! Join us for a Townhall meeting on Sunday (11am) for more information about where we are – and what’s next!
- Partnership is how we commit to one another and the mission that we share in together! We’re welcoming several new partners this month. Are you all in on God’s mission with God’s people here? Let the church know – become a partner! Reach out this week, brettsanner@findcommunity.com.
Abiding –
Pastor Brett
