Bob’s thoughts:
The church is in a pastoral setting in Butler County, and the ambiance carried on inside in the pleasant Sanctuary. We were warmly welcomed, which is somewhat unusual for a church with two services. When I saw the cross in stained glass I realized what was missing last week: I need the cross in worship. The Sanctuary has a center and side aisles, which must make it adaptable for most uses. The harmony of the praise group and instruments was enjoyable.
After sharing the Joys and Concerns, there was a short, impromptu prayer during which he used the phrase “where we can do little.” What an appropriate expression. When we can do, we don’t need God.
I appreciated the Pastor’s vocal inflections when reading the Scripture and preaching; to me it makes a real difference.
The Sermon was directed to what we do when facing difficulties ahead: we try to ignore, or try to control everything, or face the situation with courage and trust. God wants us to live now and not worry about the future. We are better served to look back at the blessings He has heaped upon us and how He has brought us through every strife.
We can live our lives without any fear. We are loved and well cared for, it is an important part of our witness to those who don’t yet know Christ.
I liked that the Pastor was served by the Elders but was sorry that Communion was served silently.
This church seems to be moving toward being missional; I pray they go fearlessly.
Having arrived very early for the 11 a.m. service, we had plenty of time to look around and chat with people. The facility is well cared for, and much thought went into the decorating. The signage was excellent throughout, and the kitchen space is well organized and labeled.
We located several bulletin boards: one with photos and information about those serving in the military, one with all sorts of information about local, national, and international missions, and one about activities involving the seniors who meet here, as well as several others.
In spite of the fact that this is a two-service congregation, some of the members and the pastor were friendly and kind enough to take time to chat and tell us about the church.
The Sanctuary is well coordinated with green carpet, matching green on the pew cushions and backs, accented by a medium wood on the pew ends and Chancel woodwork with white elsewhere.
I enjoyed singing the contemporary music, and the three vocalists harmonized beautifully. Also the piano/organ pairing was very pleasant.
The Children’s Sermon was different, as the children stayed in the pews. Consequently the message seemed aimed at the entire congregation, which is not only a fine thing but reflects the way it actually is anyway.
The Sermon was based on Acts 21:1-19, “What To Do When Difficulties Lie Ahead.” He spoke about when we “see tell-tale signs of what’s coming we have the option of taking the ostrich approach, we can attempt to control or manipulate circumstances, or we can find the courage to trust God’s handling of it.” He further pointed out that “the past does not hold us down – it’s past. We can choose to live in the present even without knowing how things will be worked out. Our future is based on God’s Presence and power. We may be shaken, but our faith will be proven. God DOES prepare us – we just can’t see it.”
Having just finished reading Max Lucado’s book “Fearless,” this sermon struck a chord with me. It felt like God brought us here to hear this message in order to reinforce these very points. These are significant truths and I’m encouraged to know He cares that I/we internalize them. (By the way, “Fearless” was a blessing.)
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