August is here, and so are a jam-packed few weeks! Our new church year begins soon, and so as we look ahead, Pastor Danny identifies some key ways you can be involved. Take a look!
Hello Church!
Hey, if you were here for worship in person this past week, you saw the very large displays at each entrance to the church filled with colorful cards, each representing a specific need we have for volunteers. As we launch a new church year we have Sunday School at both hours for all ages, we have DGroups for students, we have missions and music on Wednesday nights, AND we need your help. Each of the cards you see hanging on these displays represents the need for a real person to step into leadership. We are asking you to pray about how you might serve this year and invest in the next generation. It’s a commitment for sure, but it is a commitment that brings a big return! You will impact the kingdom and you will be blessed! So this Sunday, when you see one of these big, impossible-to-miss displays, don’t just walk by. Stop. Look it over. Then grab a card and make a difference!
Hard to believe, but summer is winding down, and next week, many of the schools in our area start a new year. Administrators are making classroom assignments, teachers are setting up classrooms, coaches are running practices, maintenance teams are getting facilities ready, and students are filling their backpacks. And the people of Shades are praying! A few days ago, we launched our ONE School prayer emphasis, where we are asking folks to choose a school and pray for it—this week and throughout the year. Let’s pray for students and staff, for safe productive environments, for opportunities for Jesus to be shared! Right now, get out your phone and text (205) 749-7244 with the words "one school" and the name of a school you will pray for. You will receive a series of prompts to help guide your prayers. Folks, so much happens in a school every day—countless interactions among staff and students and families … pray that the grace and peace that comes from knowing Jesus is part of every one of them!
This past Sunday we finished up our sermon series "Forty for Forty" on the miracles of God. We looked at some of the amazing ways the Lord has demonstrated his power and presence in the lives of his people … the children of Israel AND the people of Shades. Listen, the God who defeated kings and giants and who dried up the Jordan River also softens hard hearts, restores relationships, and heals broken bodies. He is working today, showing up when we need him, in his perfect timing. This is GREAT news!
Now this Sunday I will be sharing a very important message from God’s Word about the upcoming transition of pastoral leadership. I believe this is a timely and essential message that every member needs to hear. It’s going to be a great day of worship with music, a message, and as of right now, there will be 20 baptisms! You don’t want to miss it! I look forward to seeing you this Sunday—either in person or online.