Worshiped at our satellite location today in the afternoon. Pastor Joel led our time of worship before the presence of the Lord. We had a sweet spirit in our service today. Something was getting ready to happen and lives were getting ready to be transformed. It was a wonderful 6th service on our journey through this particular wilderness experience! Since the flood on June 7th altered our steps and caused us to step out of comfortable and known boundaries, we've noticed that we are changing daily. We are focusing on others. We are reaching out to the hurting. We are dependent upon God for direction and miracle provision. We are stepping out in faith...in big ways! We are becoming more and more flexible for the Master to use. It is quite amazing to witness the transformation here @ CFA!
The message today centered around the vision statement that Jesus proclaimed in Luke 4 concerning the ministry of compassion. His ministry focused on the poor, the blind, the oppressed and the captives. Wherever Jesus traveled the ministry of compassion was carried out by His gracious and generous hands. His heart was touched by what He saw and heard. If we are to follow in His footsteps we must be mentored by this model. Compassion ministry connects wholeheartedly to that of evangelistic ministry. Feed them first, then share the gospel with them. Provide a cup of cold water, then pray powerfully in the name of Jesus. Clothe those who lost everything in the flood, then you will have an entrance in proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ!
At the end of my message, three ladies came forward to make public decisions of faith in Christ. Praise God! Each one is a brand new name written down in glory! Yes, God is doing some awesome things in our church. Lord, continue to lead us forward in this journey to people that need the life-transforming power of Christ!
HOPE Outreach Center is a full service ministry. We are providing food, clothing, water, cleaning supplies, toiletries and other needed resources. We are ministering to the poor, the oppressed, the blind and the captives. Tears fall upon sunken cheeks and smiles replace the sadness when the ministry of HOPE in Christ is given. We must continue and we will continue ministering compassion to hurting people in our community...both now and in the future!
Today I issued the challenge to raise $50,000 in 6 weeks for our Flood Fund. We are looking to God to help us raise some cash for the bills that will be coming in for this rebuilding project. Pledge cards were filled out by people of our congregation and the urgency to rebuild debt free is on. It is a literal faith march. We must pray it in. We must also be partners in the giving. We must rely heavily on God to touch the hearts of people in our church, as well as people around the country to lend a hand as well. I've got a BIG GOD who demonstrates BIG RESULTS to those who believe. I'm a believer and I'm also a partner in working with God for this "beyond all limits" miracle here @ CFA!
You can join us too. The full amount we need to completely rebuild is between $350,000 to $400,000. One way to contribute is through our website: www.columbusfirstassembly.org or you can also send in your donation to CFA, 2100 Tenth St., Columbus, IN 47201. Either way, we will be encouraged by your gift and supported by your prayers!
Anticipating another AWESOME WEEK with God leading the charge! Watching Him work in every detail and with every decision is fascinating. We will keep our eye on the Lord and hold our hand fast to the plow. Lots of work still yet ahead...
Love to all!
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