October,
2009
… whatever a man sows, that he will also reap … he who sows to the
Spirit will of the spirit reap everlasting life. And let us not grow
weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not
lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all,
especially to those who are of the household of faith.
Galatians 6:7-10
The calendar year has entered the months of autumn. In the high
country, the trees are beginning to change color and drop their leaves,
and tiny flakes of snow randomly swirl around the mountain tops on
especially cold nights – you can see the change of season. In the
Valley of the Sun – not so much. But it still happens!
School holidays and ball games, fall festivals, seasonal
holiday events, and rehearsals for Christmas programs fill our schedules
this time of year. Our churches plan outreaches for Thanksgiving and
Christmas. We plan trips to visit families, or plan to welcome them
into our homes for holiday celebrations.
This year, it is more important than ever to look for
opportunities to “do good,” especially in the face of so much need:
donating food for Christmas and Thanksgiving dinners, giving to
Compassionate Ministries in the wake of several disasters in Asia and
the South Pacific, and responding to the needs of our neighboring
communities. Perhaps we can expand our giving: inviting others into
our homes for holiday meals, visiting nursing homes or serving meals at
shelters or soup kitchens.
It is a season of giving. We give in thankfulness for what we have
received, and we are so blessed to be able to share. Whatever your
family situation, we pray that you will look for opportunities to do
good to others in the coming months. We have the assurance that God
loves a cheerful giver, and He will bless us in return!
Byron and Leanna Schortinghouse
at General Assembly with Nathanael and Will
We have a
winner!
We have a winner! Elisa Martinez of Citrus Road Church identified the
cross from Phoenix First Church!
