This is Us

We are the church, whether we are gathered or scattered--each one of us, a part of the body of Christ, wherever we go, whatever we do.

So, where can you find us, and what are we doing? 

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Last Tuesday, several of our students and some parents helped distribute the Union Gospel Mission Thanksgiving meals. Justin Talk (Student Ministries Pastor) commented, "These students didn't just hand things out. It was great seeing how they engaged the families in conversation. And I think they were surprised that the students wouldn't let them carry their own food but helped carry it out for them."

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You've seen Legend Rutledge on the worship team where she has served since she was 13, but you might also find her singing at the new Seventh Street Truck Park in St. Paul (above) or leading a night of worship around the fire in her backyard. This week she goes back to Haiti for the third time to minister to the kids at the GVCM orphanage, one of her biggest passions. 

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Twenty-six Five Oakers helped get the church building ready for Christmas on Sunday afternoon. I hear that the music, smells of food, fun, and fellowship made it a great time together, and we'll all reap the benefits. 

 

God’s Pursuit, Punishment, & Promise…

Two of those words fall gently on our ears and hearts. We generally like the idea of a loving God who pursues us and promises his love to us. The idea that there is punishment in there, however, almost stands in contrast to the idea of unconditional love and acceptance.

Photo by Dominik Kuhn on Unsplash

Photo by Dominik Kuhn on Unsplash

Is the God of the Old Testament the same God in the New Testament? Is he angry, jealous, and vengeful, or loving, accepting, and merciful? 

Are these secrets or skeletons in God’s Old Testament closet? How do we approach the stories in the Bible that involve God’s punishment of his people? What does it mean for you and me today? 

It’s all in here this weekend. There is pursuit, punishment, setback, and the joy of a promise that leads to gratitude and a response of worship to God.

I am looking forward to a great weekend this weekend as we search, struggle, and learn together.