Pride and selfishness make us concentrate on our own interests. We expect everyone to agree with us and to serve us. If we encounter resistance we tend to hide within the hard shell of our hurting self. Christ came to show us a different way of life. A life where we fall into the dirt to bring forth new life and the fruit of the Spirit. He chose that path for Himself. Today He invites us to follow His example. “I tell you truly that unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains a single grain of wheat; but if it does, it brings a good harvest.” John 12:24
Last Sabbath we did not see one another in person, but our virtual worship service went very well. The music was uplifting and Dr. Hartman’s message was Bible-based, practical and comforting. It was good to see high numbers of your online participation. The 11:30 am service was the shortest ever in my ministry. It was pretty breezy and chilly outside. One prayer in front of empty chairs served as both the opening and closing prayer :-). We go back to our regular worship services and regular Sabbath school schedule this Sabbath, March 20.
Here is an update from our Men’s Ministry leader: “I must say, these love in action reports are some of my favorites to share. Last Sunday, we started a project for a single mom of a typical curious and rambunctious boy (see attached picture). This was the text she shared with us after we left: “Feeling so very blessed today. So overwhelming. God knows exactly what he is doing and who to put in your life. He has definitely made us realize how awesome a church family we have. Thank you to the men that came today and did so much for my son and I. God bless you all!”
Guys, this is why we take time out of our busy schedules and serve. It is not about fixing things, it’s about fixing and growing relationships. Words do matter, but like the old saying goes, “actions speak louder than words”.
Praise God for giving us the responsibility of taking care of our brothers and sisters and bless all of you who put love into action. With so many folks hurting and angry around the world, maybe we should say a little less and do a lot more.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8-9 NIV
We are headed back to this house and Barbra Smith’s house this Sunday. We also have several other projects in the pipeline so if you would like to join the love in action team, please let me know. I can guarantee you will also be blessed.
The Seekers’ Bible study class went well on Wednesday night. It is open for everyone. All together I’ll have 12 studies. We start @ 6PM in the Sanctuary every Wednesday.
This week I had an intense marathon of videotaping sermons for the Light of Hope evangelistic meetings. The meetings will start on April 17. Thank you to all who supported these recordings through their prayers. I have to acknowledge that it was not an easy endeavor, but the Lord was supplying me with the needed physical energy and spiritual thoughts. I am grateful to the It Is Written team for opening the doors of their professional studio for these recordings. They have very dedicated professionals working in the studio. I’ll keep you posted on the progress of the preparation for these satellite meetings in many countries of Eastern Europe. Thank you, Lord, for keeping these doors open and for providing the very much needed financial support.
Last year we voted to start a church expansion project. COVID19 brought its corrections to our perception of reality. The architect and the building committee members are working on revisions to the plans which will help us reduce construction costs. We will call for a formal business meeting as soon as the building committee and the church board review the revised budget. Your prayers are needed. This is a big step and we cannot do it without God’s leading and blessing.
With Christian love to all of you,
pastor Peter
Ooltewah Seventh-day Adventist Church 