Isn't it great to know that we are citizens of heaven!! That is our home!
OUR CITIZENSHIP IS IN HEAVEN!
What an awesome thought to consider! The Apostle Paul reminds us in Philippians 3, "But our citizenship is in heaven." Because of Jesus, God has called us to faith and made up part of his family, citizens of heaven. Now, we desire to live up to what he calls us, children of God. Simple, right?
It would be if we did not have our 3 big enemies, Satan, the world and our own sinful flesh. It is this reason that Paul is encouraging us to stay vigilant and keep our eyes focused ahead on the prize, the goal - eternal life in paradise with our God!
Nothing is as important as that. Yet, so much takes our eyes off of that. Paul talks about earthly things. We certainly understand that. May the Lord help us keep checking our lives, our motives, our hearts and our minds by his Word. There in his Word he gives us the power to say no to ungodliness. There by Jesus' voice, he lifts us up and motivates us by his love to strive harder to love as my Savior loved me!
This week we talk more about God's gifts to us and his expectations! May the Lord help us to keep growing and living as his people. May we never take our eye off the prize of eternal life. Remember your citizenship!
Here are the readings for Sunday with summaries. https://mywels.com/pentecost-20-readings
I look forward to seeing you soon!! May Jesus be with you!! Pastor Green
SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSONS
Sunday school lessons were again sent out students connected to our church. The lesson sheets should be in the hands of the parents. Parents, you can find links to the lesson level for your child at www.mywels.com/SundaySchool
As we see the combines in the fields and the harvest being brought in, it is a reminder that Jesus is coming again to bring in the harvest of souls. Now is a great time to review our lives and thank the Lord for his many blessings and check how we are managing his gifts.
Remember - ALL WE HAVE IS A GIFT from our gracious God. He has given us all we have to manage to his glory - family, abilities, income, home, time and so much more. MOST IMPORTANT - Our relationship with our Lord. Just as we need pillow time each night, we need to rest our soul with time with Jesus. The Lord speaks of remaining in him, the vine. How often do you read your Bible? Daily, weekly or has it been a while? Set about changing that if it is not a daily thing. Jesus wants to have time with you.
WORSHIP - Are you worshiping your Lord weekly? Remember the Lord made clear from creation that we need spiritual rest weekly. He wants us to give him glory and find rest for your souls. How are you doing? Are you setting good habits for your family, leading them to worship, whether taking time together in church or at least together virtually? If not, why not? What is getting in the way? How can the Lord help you with this.
Review your offerings - Our Lord wants us to give in response to all he has given to us. How are you doing? 5%, 2%, 15%, 10%. The Lord has blessed us so richly here. He wants us to trust that he will continue to provide for us.
WORSHIP. We will again have worship at St. Peter's, Sunday, at 9:00 am and Monday at 7:00 pm. Communion will be offered at both services. We will be trying to go live at 9:00 am. Go here: www.youtube.com/c/stpetersmonticello/live.
Marriage Moments
Every marriage has its “moments.” That’s why marriage needs moments of encouragement and refreshment. Beginning this October, Marriage Moments are short, weekly videos highlighting one Biblical marriage thought accompanied by a discussion question. Check out the couple's introduction HERE: https://vimeo.com/449296979
Here is the first week video: https://vimeo.com/449294409
Healthy congregations need healthy homes. And healthy homes benefit when couples hear what God has to say about their marriages. Whether a marriage is great or struggling, may God use his Word to bless it! Subscribe HERE:https://welscongregationalservices.net/subscriptions/
OFFERINGS - The Council and I would also ask that you prayerfully consider the Lord's blessings and continue to give offerings according to your plan in support of our Kingdom work. You are welcome to use our online giving at mywels.com/giveonline or send in your envelope and/or offerings to church. If you have any questions, please just contact pastor.
IN NEED OF HELP - if you are need of any help during this time, whether it is getting groceries or supplies, whatever it may be, please just call and ask. It is important for us to show the love of Christ in action at this time. Look for opportunities to show love and kindness for your neighbors. Go out of your way to help others. AND especially keep praying for your neighbors, your governing officials, health care workers, people working in the grocery stores and our senior citizens that are isolated in their apartments or nursing facilities. It is a challenging time, but our Lord promises to answer our prayers and never leave us!