Love From Your Pastor

Happy Thursday FBC Friends!

 

Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has He in anger shut up His compassion? (Psalm 77:9)

 

Thankfully, the answer to the psalmist’s questions is, “No!”  God has not forgotten to be gracious.  In fact, He couldn’t possibly forget to be gracious, because graciousness is part of who He is!  He does get angry over sin.  And He is certainly a Mighty God to be feared.  But He is also “The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious…” (Ex. 34:6-7)  I’m so thankful that is true about our God, aren’t you?

 

This Sunday, the 3rd message in our “5 SOLAS” series is about SOLA GRATIA: Grace Alone.  It is critical for us to understand salvation (and all of the Christian life) as a gift of God.  We will look at a number of aspects of grace, and consider numerous passages.  A few good ones for you to chew on in preparation would be: Titus 2:11-12; Exodus 34:6-7; Isaiah 6:5-7 & 53:4-6; Ephesians 2:8-10; and 1 Corinthians 15:10.  

 

We will be remembering the Lord’s death together with the Communion elements this Sunday.  Let’s prepare our hearts by examining our lives and repenting of any known sin, and come with grateful hearts for His grace!  This is also our opportunity to contribute to the Communion Care Fund, which allows us to help those going through difficult times.

 

On Thursdays during Awana, I am beginning a study of 1, 2, and 3 John.  If you are bringing kids to Awana (and are not an Awana volunteer), this would be an opportunity to stick around and enjoy a good time of discussion centered on God’s Word and some good fellowship.  Or even if you’re not bringing kids to Awana and would like to be a part of this study, you can join us (7:15 – 8:15pm)!  We are meeting in my office (unless the group grows too large for that).

 

Don’t forget these key October events:

 

Oct 15 – Membership class, Noon – 3pm.  Let me know if you are interested in this!  Lunch is provided.

 

Oct 21-22 – Missions Conference at FBC (for the whole family)!  Saturday morning beginning at 9am, and Sunday morning during Sunday School, fellowship time, and Worship Service.

 

Oct 31 – Trunk-or-Treat (7th annual)! 6 – 7:30pm at the FBC parking lot.  Sign up sheets in the foyer for vehicles and various much-needed helpers.  Candy contest is American League (boooooo) vs. National League (yaaaay)!  Let’s bring in over 500 lbs. again!

 

Grace to you…

 

Love From Your Pastor,

Michael