Just before leaving for the event, I was asked if I had any gloves to wear, regrettably, not thinking that I would be doing any more physical work,  I had sent my work gloves back to Canada with the team.  I was shown a pair of rubber gloves and advised that thicker rubber gloves were better than the thin disposable ones, as the disposables don’t last long.  I determined to stop at a construction shop on the way to Gaba and search for heavy rubber gloves.  After several attempts I found a merchant who had thick rubber gloves, they went up the arm just about to the elbow, but they were thick rubber, only 6,000 shillings – $2.40 US, off to Gaba.

When I got to Gaba I quickly spotted where the Christians were congregated on the street and looked to see what could be done.  Street sewers in Uganda are large gutters along the side of the road, sewage, refuse, and garbage float down these gutters to some lower place where it stagnates, produces a marsh, runs into a lake or a river.  Sometimes the gutters are covered by concrete slabs, boards or metal pieces so that people can safely cross or drive over them.  The men had opened up some of the covered gutters and were scooping out the muck and garbage from the trenches.  Shoveling it onto the side of the street.  The scooped up substances were black foul smelling piles of half rotten vegetable matter, crushed bottles, pieces of plastic bags, string, clumps of human hair, broken parts, literally everything, (use your imagination).  “Here , sift through it with your fingers, pull out the garbage and organic matter and leave the stones and muck on the road to dry.  The sifted stuff pick it up with you hands and put it into this bag.”  Was I glad for the thick long rubber gloves.  Shovel after shovel were scooped up and bag after bag were filled.  The smell was nauseating and I often felt light headed, about to faint, but I kept  thinking, “Fight through it Keith, if you faint and land in this stuff, it will really be bad.”

In Psalm 40:2, it talks about our great God Who lifts us out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he sets our feet on a rock and gives us a firm place to stand.  God not only pulls us out of the mucky situations but He also washes and cleans us, gives us new clothing and then makes us to sit with the princes in the heavenly places.  God didn’t do this from a distance, He actually came as a human and walked among the filth and problems of the world.

As I worked I thought, “Here is a group of Christians working in the smell and filth just to clean a part of their city.  Are we just as willing to get down into the filth, get close to the messy lives of people, so that God can work through us to clean up a human soul?”  Lord help us to see the value of other people so that we are not disturbed by the filth of the lives.  May we not be dismayed by the dirt in people’s lives, but may we see Your cleaning power working through us.

Having read the letter from the young man I inquired, what does a cow cost? “Between 500,000 – 600,000 shillings,” was the reply. (That’s $200 – $240 US). I remembered the $100 and asked the team if they would like to invest $10 -$15 each into the young man.  Soon the man had a new cow.

My point behind this story is threefold. Firstly – someone anticipated that God would do something and set aside resources in a predetermined way, knowing that there will be an opportunity to bless and minister. Do we take such deliberate efforts to set aside some of our money, time or energy,  knowing that Our Lord will bring an opportunity before us, and then we will be able to us this for God’s glory?  Secondly, individuals were prepared to partner together to make the project come to completion. There are many things which God sets before us which are too extensive for one person to do by themselves. However, together we can do more than what one person can do on their own.   Thirdly, Jesus says that we cannot serve two masters,(Matt 6:34) we will love one and hate the other. Many times the “master” that hovers over our heads is the “need for more”.  We want more things, or a nice spouse, etc.  so we are unable or unwilling to give to the needs of others. We are unprepared to set aside resources for the opportunities that God might have before us, and then when the opportunities come we are unwilling to release those resources. These resources are too precious to us.

Lord Jesus, You want to bring opportunities before us whereby we can bless and encourage and strengthen others.   Give us willing hearts and open our eyes so that we will know when those opportunities are before us and so that we will give of ourselves wholeheartedly into the situations.

At Power & Praise last night there was a time of prayer specifically for people experiencing hearing problems, be it deafness, ringing in the ears, distorted hearing, or any kind of hearing issue. Just before this, we heard a testimony from one the Uganda team members, telling us of how God has been doing miracles of healing (his story was specifically of a person having their hearing restored) over the past two weeks while our mission team was ministering in Africa.

Pastor Mark asked any missions team members who were present to come to the front of the room to pray for anyone who would want to receiving healing for their hearing.  Many people came forward to receive prayer, and we saw evidence in some cases that God had definitely touched and healed them.

“While I was being prayed for I got a tingling sensation and within seconds my hearing was fully back. I wanted to let you know and acknowledge God that I have been blessed once again. He has saved in many times and completely gotten rid of my addiction for hard drugs.”  (email received 30 mins. after the service ended)

For others, the proof of healing will come when they are again in the specific environments where they’ve had hearing problems before, and we are eager to know their stories too!

May God be praised!

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parents

THIS WEEK (Grade 9-12)

WWJD – Why Read the Bible?
“Do I have to read the Bible in order to be a Christian?”
Hangout time in The Cage after small groups. 

Friday May 24, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase) 

NEXT WEEK

Love Winnipeg
Jesus: Drunk, Fat, Traitor!?

Come help us kick off our new series
on loving those that the world thinks are unlovable.
We will also be infiltrating the local neighborhood with flyers,
inviting them to The Love Winnipeg Carnival!!!

Friday May 31, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free

COMING UP…
Threshold Baptism  - June 14, 2013
Email jason@churchoftherock.ca to sign up
Family and friends are encouraged to join us!!

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

YOUTUBE DISCUSSION

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parents

THIS WEEK (Grade 9-12)

WWJD – Why Read the Bible?
“Do I have to read the Bible in order to be a Christian?”
Hangout time in The Cage after small groups. 

Friday May 24, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase) 

NEXT WEEK

Love Winnipeg
Jesus: Drunk, Fat, Traitor!?

Come help us kick off our new series
on loving those that the world thinks are unlovable.
We will also be infiltrating the local neighborhood with flyers,
inviting them to The Love Winnipeg Carnival!!!

Friday May 31, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase) 

COMING UP…
Threshold Baptism  - June 14, 2013
Email jason@churchoftherock.ca to sign up
Family and friends are encouraged to join us!! 

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

PARENT LINK

HomeWord’s Weekly Culture Brief – May 17, 2013
Includes: Depression in Teen Girls Linked to Absent Fathers in Early Childhood
Adolescent Bullies More Likely to be Involved in Criminal Behavior as Adults
Teens Who Text and Drive Take Other Driving Risks and more…

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parent

THIS WEEK (Grade 6-8)

Threshold Jr’s Got Talent
+ What Jesus Says About Talents
We are having our talent show!
Come prepared with whatever you need to
dazzle us with your special talent.
Music, acting, writing, funny faces, weird abilities,
whatever it is, show us what you got!

 Wednesday May 22, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

NEXT WEEK

Love Winnipeg Home Invasion
+ What Jesus Says About Talents
Love Winnipeg starts with Home Invasions
followed by hangout time in the park!
If it’s raining come prepared to get wet! 

 Wednesday May 29, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: FREE

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

    YOUTUBE DISCUSSION 

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parent

THIS WEEK

Threshold Jr’s Got Talent
+ What Jesus Says About Talents
We are having our talent show!
Come prepared with whatever you need to
dazzle us with your special talent.
Music, acting, writing, funny faces, weird abilities,
whatever it is, show us what you got!

 Wednesday May 22, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

NEXT WEEK

Love Winnipeg Home Invasion
Love Winnipeg starts with Home Invasions
followed by hangout time in the park!
If it’s raining come prepared to get wet! 

 Wednesday May 29, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: FREE

LAST WEEK

Our small groups have wrapped up their series tackling four topics that can be struggles for junior high students. In this final lesson, we examined the idea of “Multiple Me’s” in our lives—in other words, the battle to live consistently.

We built our conversation on 2 Timothy 4:5-8, words from the Apostle Paul to his protégé Timothy. These words—written while Paul sat in a Roman prison—remind of us his consistency, faithfulness, and commitment as a follower of Jesus, and the impact he had on so many people’s lives. Paul wasn’t a perfect guy, but he was committed to consistently honoring, obeying, and pointing people toward God.

Young teenagers are beginning to recognize the struggle of acting a certain way at church, but living differently when they are at school or with friends. Many students really want to live for God but just don’t know how to have Jesus be a part of their daily life at home, at school, on the team, or in life’s daily circumstances.

We encouraged our teenagers to recognize the value of choosing to life a consistent life for God. This path isn’t always easy, but God will honor their efforts and give them strength along the way. As they choose to live consistently, people will notice—and might be eager to find out more about Jesus because of your students’ decision not to have “Multiple Me’s.”

As you talk with your teenager about this week’s lesson, here are some questions you might want to ask:

•  What are some of the challenges to remaining faithful and consistent as a follower of Jesus? What are some especially specific situations that make it difficult?
• What do you think is the difference between perfection, which we can’t achieve, and consistency and integrity, which God wants to see in our lives?
• Why might a consistent life point your friends toward Jesus? How is a consistent life an effective demonstration of Jesus and his love?

This has been a great series with our students, and I hope you and your teenager have had some great conversations because of it. Have an awesome week!

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

PARENT LINK

HomeWord’s Weekly Culture Brief – May 17, 2013
Includes: Depression in Teen Girls Linked to Absent Fathers in Early Childhood
Adolescent Bullies More Likely to be Involved in Criminal Behavior as Adults
Teens Who Text and Drive Take Other Driving Risks and more…

PARENT HOME GROUP

While your child is in Threshold JR,
you are invited to participate in a Home Group
across the hall in Room A4.
We worship the Lord and study God’s Word.
We fellowship and pray together.
And we laugh together.

Time: Wednesday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.,
Contact Helen at 452-9767, or just come on over and join us.
You are welcome at anytime.

Instead, with as much gentleness and tenderness as I could show, I swatted down and looked into his eyes and challenged the young pastor.  “You already have all that you need.  You think that you need more money, or more food, or better clothing to be more effective in ministering.  You are looking at the wrong things and hoping for the wrong sources to bring strength to your community ministry.”  “These people around you have money, possessions, food and houses but that is not what they need.  They need what you have.  They need a true living relationship with the living God, they need peace with God, they need forgiveness through Jesus Christ, they need principles that will bring life to their relationships.  This is what you have. Draw strength from what you have and then in excitement share that with the people around you.”

Father forgive us because we easily become deceived by the ways of those around us.  As Christians we can easily fail to see how much it is You that we already have and it is You that everyone else needs.  Help us to draw strength, not from the silver and gold (which we might not have) but from You, Whom we have.  Others need You too, not because of material things that they hope to get for You, but because they need You.  We become ashamed because we do not have material things; we should be boastful because we have You.

We could look down upon that lady and say she missed “true life”, because of over valuing “short term life”, but often we do the same.  We want to obey The Lord yet because of the fear of loosing something, we fail to obey.  We might have lots of excuses but, in reality, the reasons we give, the excuses we present, or in spite of  whatever else we might say, the real issue is that inwardly we think that the cost is too great for us.

Luke 14:28 encourages us to count the cost.  Lord help us to consider, and weigh the eternal costs more seriously then the short term costs. Lord, help us to see that there are no long term costs, only long term gains which will come from following you.

I thought of the nature of this group of primate like mammals where “might makes right”.  In our human society if there is no absolute moral code then norms and morals of society are made by similar standards.  Those with the most strength, the most knowledge, the most skill, the most persuasive communication, the most friends, or the most money end up establishing the guidelines for all.  In the baboon community the mothers, the young and the weak all bowed down to the ruling of the mighty dominant one.  This is not the way it is to be within mankind.  God has put a moral code within each of us.  God has written His law within our hearts, (Rom 2:15) so that one individual does not rule at the expense of others.  As Christians we are called to help the weak and the poor, not to oppress them.

Lord, help us not to be self serving individuals.  Give us sensitive hearts to the needs of others.

God can us anyone, even a young child.  You might consider your faith or your spiritual walk to be childlike in nature but God can work through you too.  In Matthew 18:3 we are encouraged to be like little children, to see the full purposes of God, His kingdom.

Lord help us to do what You have set before us in Childlike faith.

]]> Continue reading →]]> 0 http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/life-is-tough http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/life-is-tough#comments Fri, 17 May 2013 11:36:47 +0000 Keith Eberhard http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/?p=8371 Continue reading →]]> http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/life-is-tough/feed 1 Keith Eberhard Life in rural Uganda.  Every evening we took time to pray for individuals. In the rural area where people make a living through hard work, living is difficult.  Cutting trees or cultivating the land is done with simple tools like machetes and mattocks.   Heavy burdens are carried on the shoulders or heads of the people. The local water, if not boiled thoroughly, carries bacteria that will affect the stomach. There are no medical clinics and the people have no money to pay for medication if they did need it. One pastor’s wife had hired a motor cycle (called a boda boda) to bring her to the conference. In traveling the motorcycle tipped and she broke or fractured the fibula bone in her leg.  One of our team members, being a physiotherapist, examined the leg and there was no doubt that the bone was broken.  The leg was swollen, it was painful to tough.  Our advice was to go to a medical clinic and get it X-rayed; get a cast put on it; keep it elevated; and keep from bearing weight on the leg for a minimum of 3 weeks, or better yet 6 weeks. Of course we prayed for the leg, and then we prayed again and again. This lady was taking care of 12 children. Though we gave her proper medical advice.  We knew that she would not be able to sit with her leg elevated for several days. She did not have the time or money to go to a clinic to get the leg x-rated or cast; she would buy no pain medication. She would not keep off of the foo for there was work to be done hills to climb, church services to attend, people to minister to.  The hard situations of life had increased her tolerance for pain so she hobbled away in pain, thankful for the prayers and for the concern. Two days later I talked with her and her husband. The leg was still badly swollen, there was still pain, she was still standing and walking on it.

In this hard life situation, headaches, neck, back and stomach problems were common to every one and so we prayed and prayed and prayed. Some were touched and healed and some were not. We prayed day after day, evening after evening; without God’s help little would be accomplished.

We take much for granted in our comfortable Canadian lives. We are blessed, but do we express our gratitude to God. Take time to thank The Lord for what we have been blessed with.

]]> Continue reading →]]> 1 http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/weary-in-well-doing http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/weary-in-well-doing#comments Thu, 16 May 2013 18:47:15 +0000 Keith Eberhard http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/?p=8368 Continue reading →]]> http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/weary-in-well-doing/feed 0 Keith Eberhard Hundreds of children are everywhere.  We have tied a string around our camp and eating area to keep the local people and children away so that at least we have some privacy.  Now I know what the animals in the zoo feel like, we are the zoo and the local people gather around the stringed area  to watch what these different coloured people do.  Seven days of three services a day.  Preaching and teaching, question and answer times, two sets of children’s lesson a day and then on top of that there are the local people and pastors that have questions, prayer requests, physical and monetary needs.  I think that I know a little about how Jesus felt and why sometimes He needed to pull away from the press of the crowd.  Jesus needed to get away to pray (Matthew 14:23).  There are people everywhere and then there is the sun or the rain, or the wind with dust, when it hasn’t rained within a couple days.  There are squat holes that we need to use for a latrine. There are lots of things that we could complain about.  It would be easy just to send everyone away, yet, we are exhorted not to be weary in well doing (Gal 6:9).

What if just one of those people got saved and their life was changed because we didn’t quit when life was a little difficult.  Of the three hundred or more children that the team works with twice a day, most have put up their hands and prayed to say that they wanted to receive Jesus into their lives.  Today I was told that Pastor James, the local pastor whom we work with, received Jesus as his Saviour when he was 7 years old.  Perhaps one of these children, or many of them, will become pastors because someone from our team shared Jesus with them.  These ever watching children are the next generation of leaders.

Lord help us not to be weary in well doing.  There are lives to touch, there is much to do.  What about the people around your life?  They too need to be ministered to.  Perhaps you can touch them if you are not weary in well doing.

As a person I am far from perfect.  I have had a life-long struggle with pornography and a negative self image, among other things.  Because of this I had been ineffective in working for God’s kingdom here on earth because I doubted I was capable or worthy of doing anything.  I doubted that I was even a Christian.  I doubted that God could love someone like me.

One thing I have noticed about the people of Overcomers is that they have an incredible awareness of God’s love and grace.  And it shows: they exhibit God’s love in a way I had never before known or experienced.  They know they are far from perfect, they freely admit it, and they know that only God’s grace can save them.  There is nothing they can do to save themselves.  In Overcomers you learn that God wants us to change for the better, and that He (and only He) can help us do that.  You learn that willpower means your will and His power.  Overcomers is a place where God loves you through other people.

Overcomers is a place for anyone who wants to change but doesn’t know how to.  You learn that no matter what you habits are, no matter what behaviours you are engaged in, God loves you.   He wants to change you to become more like His Son.  He wants to help you change and He will if you let Him.  Overcomers is a place where God helps you to change.

This may sound scary to you. It did to me at first.  I had to step out of my comfort zone.  I had to get real; first with myself, and then with other people.  I had to admit my hurts, habits and hang-ups.  I had to face them.  I had to forgive them.  And I had to forget them. It hasn’t been easy: nothing worth doing in life ever is.  But the people in Overcomers support me and help me to do this.  They love and accept me as I am.  They support me and encourage me and help me to grow and change to be more like Jesus Christ.  I’m still far short of being the man God wants me to be but at least now, for the first time, I am moving in the right direction and making steady progress.  Overcomers is a place where you learn to rest in God’s forgiveness, grace and love.  You learn that He covers all things with His goodness, and that He makes a way when you’ve messed up the way.

No matter where you are at or how many times you may have tried and failed in the past to change, I encourage you to give Overcomers a try.  Many of us fall or stray at some point in our walk.  That doesn’t make you a failure.  You’re only a failure if you quit trying.  So, give Overcomers a try.   I did, and my life will never be the same.  Thank God.

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parents

THIS WEEK (Grade 9-12)

WWJD – It’s About Your Insides
This week at Threshold we will be learning that our actions come from the state our heart is in.  Plus a giant game of BUMP!!
Hangout time in The Cage after small groups. 

Friday May 17, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase) 

NEXT WEEK

WWJD – Why Read the Bible?
“Do I have to read the Bible in order to be a Christian?”
Hangout time in The Cage after small groups. 

Friday May 24, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

YOUTUBE DISCUSSION

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parents

THIS WEEK (Grade 9-12)

WWJD – It’s About Your Insides
This week at Threshold we will be learning that our actions come from the state our heart is in.  Plus a giant game of BUMP!!
Hangout time in The Cage after small groups. 

Friday May 17, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase) 

NEXT WEEK

WWJD – Why Read the Bible?
“Do I have to read the Bible in order to be a Christian?”
Hangout time in The Cage after small groups. 

Friday May 24, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase) 

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

PARENT LINK

CPYU Parent Page – May 2013
Includes: It’s All About Me, Me. ME.
Divorce & Family Spirituality
Internet Filters & The Glory of God and more…

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parent

THIS WEEK (Grade 6-8)

Mexican Fiesta + 4 Things – Multiple Me’s We celebrate the culture of our sponsor child Gloria including pinatas and free tacos! + 4 things that trip us up concludes with Multiple Me’s

  Wednesday May 15, 2013 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Church of the Rock Cost: FREE (We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

NEXT WEEK

Threshold Jr’s Got Talent + What Jesus Says About Talents We are having our talent show! Come prepared with whatever you need to dazzle us with your special talent. Music, acting, writing, funny faces, weird abilities, whatever it is, show us what you got!

 Wednesday May 22, 2013 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Church of the Rock Cost: FREE

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

    YOUTUBE DISCUSSION

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parent

THIS WEEK

Mexican Fiesta
+ 4 Things – Multiple Me’s
We celebrate the culture of our sponsor child Gloria
including pinatas and free tacos!
+ 4 things that trip us up concludes with Multiple Me’s

 
Wednesday May 15, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

NEXT WEEK

Threshold Jr’s Got Talent
+ What Jesus Says About Talents
We are having our talent show!
Come prepared with whatever you need to
dazzle us with your special talent.
Music, acting, writing, funny faces, weird abilities,
whatever it is, show us what you got!

 Wednesday May 22, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: FREE

LAST WEEK

Our small groups continued their series tackling four topics that can be struggles for junior high students. In this third lesson, we examined the topic of popularity, using Mark 9:33-35 as our foundation.

This passage shows that Jesus’ followers battled the desire to be “first” or “the best.” Although it’s not wrong to want to belong, when this effort gets out of control, we start to make decisions based on the desire to be popular, instead of the desire to love God and others. Striving for popularity is a risky goal—it reinforces our selfishness and blinds us to the needs of others.

We talked with our teenagers about the desire for popularity, and how they can recognize when the “pull of popularity” has too tight of a grip on their lives. We also discussed one solution they can use when they’re trapped by the popularity pull: adjusting their attitude by serving other people.

As you talk with your teenager about this week’s lesson, here are some questions you might want to incorporate:

• Why do you think most teenagers care about being popular—or DO most teenagers care about being popular?
• If someone is trying to be “popular,” how might that goal affect other decisions in life, such as what they wear, who they spend time with, how they talk, and what activities they do?
• Why does serving seem to change our focus on what’s most important in life?

 I pray that you and your family have an awesome week!

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

PARENT LINK

CPYU Parent Page – May 2013
Includes: It’s All About Me, Me. ME.
Divorce & Family Spirituality
Internet Filters & The Glory of God and more…

PARENT HOME GROUP

While your child is in Threshold JR,
you are invited to participate in a Home Group
across the hall in Room A4.
We worship the Lord and study God’s Word.
We fellowship and pray together.
And we laugh together.

Time: Wednesday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.,
Contact Helen at 452-9767, or just come on over and join us.
You are welcome at anytime.

]]> Continue reading →]]> 0 http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/maybe-nothing-happens http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/maybe-nothing-happens#comments Mon, 13 May 2013 15:54:17 +0000 Keith Eberhard http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/?p=8337 Continue reading →]]> http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/maybe-nothing-happens/feed 0 Keith Eberhard This morning our team divided into groups of two, plus a translator, and went up and down both sides of the main road of the community.  At  each shop and house they explained how they were helping at Pastor Jame’s church.  They shared how they were going from house to house asking people if there was anything that they wanted prayer for.  Of course there was no shortage of opportunities to pray for people.  Head aches, stomach problems, help with coming school exams, marriages, even in the open air bar the men stopped what they were doing and wanted prayer.  “At the Bar” one man mocked from the distance and the other man chided out that he should be quiet.  In one store, Marion, a Muslim lady, asked for prayer for a variety of needs.  The teams went on praying from door to door.  As their time for ministry was up and as they started back to the church, one of the interpreters went back to the places where prayers were offered and again invited each person to come to the free medical clinic or to the service in the afternoon or the evening “Jesus Video”.

In the afternoon Marion was present.  At the end of the service as she was leaving another local interpreter noticed that Marion was there and ask her if she would like to accept Jesus into her life and become a Christian.  “Yes, but not now,” was the reply.  “Why not now, we could prayer here?” asked the translator.  At 4:24 p.m. Uganda time (8:25 a.m. Winnipeg Time)  the angels in heaven rejoiced in a fresh way, as Marion invited Jesus into her life, a sweet smile was upon her face.  A Bible in her own language was given to her and she immediately started to read about this Jesus that she had just received as her Lord and Saviour.

Note the process.  Three people went door to door, there were no significant results; one person went and re-invited people to come hear about Jesus again with no immediate results; a message was preached followed by an invitation to receive Jesus, there was no affect; a believer  personally gives a one on one offer to accept Jesus and the offer is dismissed with a response of  “Maybe later”.  Someone paid for a Bible, having no knowledge of how it would be used. But in all of this God worked.  At any step one could say nothing is happening, but God was working.

Don’t quit because you don’t see results, God is working.  Lord we often don’t see the immediate results, but help us to press on, expecting that Your Word, when ministered, will not return void (Isaiah 55:11).

Sometimes in life we are overcome with dread.

She was going along in life her happy self, had a career, got married, had a kid (adorable little one 9 yrs). Then something dreadful happened to her right on mother’s day.

C.S. Lewis said this, “Pain insists upon being attended to. God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our consciences, but shouts in our pains. It is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world.”

That mother’s day, through the pain in her life, and the pain caused by her alcoholism, God spoke to her very loudly, like through that megaphone. And at the same time, God spoke to her that through His suffering, His blood, He gave up his only son, was tortured on the cross He died to save us from our sinful selves!

She also heard Him say, “Be still and know that I am God!”

She has now been sober for over a year, and Overcomers in Christ has been a part of her recovery. And for that she expresses her thankfulness.

Yours, o lord is the greatness, the power and the glory and the victory and majesty. For all that is in the heavens and the earth is yours, yours is the kingdom, o Lord and you are exalted as head over all. – 1 chronicles 29:11

Two years ago a team from Church of the Rock gave Pastor Rwamakanda 200,000 Uganda Shillings.  With this money he went back to his home area, a distance of 2 hours walk, and started to rebuild the roof.  This year the pastor returned to say think you.  The roof is up, the people have returned and there are now 70 members in the church.  His excitement was overwhelming as he jumped for joy, saluted me and gave praise and gratitude to the working of God. In appreciation the rebuilt church was named “Rock Church”.  Many of you helped to support the team that went to Uganda 2 years ago.  Thank you, you helped to re-establish this congregation.

200,000 Shillings restored hope to a pastor and a congregation and helped change the spiritual climate in a community.  200,000 shillings is only about $85.00 Canadian.  Small things can be used by our Lord in big ways.

Lord, may I always give generously to your kingdom so others may grow in you.

I thank God for those who rise early and pray.  I thank God for those that are up late praying, or for those that pray during the day.  Without prayer little would be accomplished.  1 Thess 5:17 says, “Pray without ceasing.”

Lord, thank You for those who pray so faithfully.  Thank You that You answer prayer.  Help me to be more faithful in seeking You in prayer and worship.

After each section we asked people if they felt that God had touched them and if so they should raise their hands.  The results were the same as at other locations.  Hands were up everywhere.  It seemed like everyone who asked for prayer had their hands in the air.  Now at other times I had often wondered if they really understood the instructions.  I often thought, “Perhaps they thought they should raise their hands if they still needed healing, because there were so many that responded.”  You could tell by the smiling faces that something happened.  This time the thought came, “Ask those with upraised hands what happened?”  We endeavoured to do so but the numbers were so large only a few got interviewed.  People shared how God touched them in areas of: one deaf ear, head aches, sore throats, stiff shoulders, immobile arms, many with pain in the stomach, a fallen uterus, hard testicles, painful and stiff hips, painful legs,  and unbending knees, were healed.  This is a rough list as for many of these issues there were multiple people healed. Many people were healed before we even got to praying for their area of need.  Then there were the other multitudes that we didn’t interview.   As we prayed over one area of need, people were still streaming into the building saying, “You just prayed for my area of need I was outside and I missed getting prayed for, will you pray again?”  The answer was, “Yes, but just wait.”

In the end we prayed one all encompassing prayer for those that still had not obtained their healing in the area of need. Following the prayer, we again asked how many were touched by God and if they knew that God had healed them.  Over half of these people responded saying that they too were healed.  There was great excitement over this great God who loved and cared for them.  Of course following with an alter call was the next step, allowing these people  to respond in a greater way to the God who cares and heals for them.

In the midst of this I want to say, “Thank you for helping through your finances, and thank you for your prayers.”  Let God work through you.  The same God that is with us here in Africa, is there with you also.

On this flight, sitting next to me, there is a young businessman from Dubai.   I’m talking to him about the importance of walking with God.  How such a walk cannot be based upon our own efforts for they will never be sufficient. I shared how true Christianity says that we will never be good enough to walk with God on our own ability, we need the help of God through Jesus Christ.  This help comes through our trust in Jesus.  Jesus came to help us walk with God, He came to forgive our sins.  It would take a God to help us walk with God, and that is why God came, as Jesus, to help us.  I asked the man, “If you were to die tonight do you know if you would go to heaven.”  To this he said, “I hope so, but I’m not sure.”  As I talked about the confidence that we can have of an eternity with God, no matter what happens here on earth, he said, “That would be nice to have, perhaps I’ll think about it later.”  At that moment the roller coaster on the 737 started.  The conversation immediately intensified.  The possibility of death got pushed off, from some future event, to the immediate.

Without the full context of background information, the storm would have been a fearful experience.  Other passengers or the flight attendants, without the context, might have been fearful or seen the storm as a threat.  I saw this storm as a motivational tool of the Lord.  God used this event to motivate the man and accentuate the need for a relationship with Jesus Christ, now, not just in the future.  Matt 4:41 “even the wind and the sea obey Him!”

What storms are you going through?  Expect God to work even if you are not seeing the big picture.  Lord, may we trust more in the working of you, even in the storms of life.

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parents

THIS WEEK (Grade 9-12)

Out Night ($5)

This week we will be doing small groups in different locations around the city. Each small group will decide when they get to Threshold, where they want to do their small groups. Many groups go to places like a leaders house, Starbucks or Tim Horton’s to do their small group discussion.

The night will start and end at the regular time (7:11 p.m. –10:00 p.m.) COST: $5

Friday May 10, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: $5

NEXT WEEK

WWJD – It’s About Your Insides
This week at Threshold we will be learning that our actions come from the state our heart is in.  Plus a giant game of BUMP!!
Hangout time in The Cage after small groups. 

Friday May 17, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase) 

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

YOUTUBE DISCUSSION

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parents

THIS WEEK (Grade 9-12)

Out Night ($5)
This week we will be doing small groups in different locations around the city. Each small group will decide when they get to Threshold, where they want to do their small groups. Many groups go to places like a leaders house, Starbucks or Tim Horton’s to do their small group discussion.

The night will start and end at the regular time (7:11 p.m. –10:00 p.m.) COST: $5

Friday May 10, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: $5

NEXT WEEK

WWJD – It’s About Your Insides
This week at Threshold we will be learning that our actions come from the state our heart is in.  Plus a giant game of BUMP!!
Hangout time in The Cage after small groups. 

Friday May 17, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase) 

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

PARENT LINK

Homeword’s Good Advice Parent Newsletter – May
Includes: Improving Communication with Your Teenager
Think Before You Speak
Learning the Art of Stealth Communication
Confession is Good for the Soul – and Your Family

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parent

THIS WEEK (Grade 6-8)

Who Wants to Be a TV Star?
+ 4 Things – Popularity
Now is your chance to be a TV star!
+ 4 things that trip us up continues with Popularity

 Wednesday May 8, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

NEXT WEEK

Mexican Fiesta
+ 4 Things – Multiple Me’s
We celebrate the culture of our sponsor child Gloria
including pinatas and free tacos!
+ 4 things that trip us up concludes with Multiple Me’s

 Wednesday May 15, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: FREE

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

YOUTUBE DISCUSSION

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parent

THIS WEEK

Who Wants to Be a TV Star?
+ 4 Things – Popularity
Now is your chance to be a TV star!
+ 4 things that trip us up continues with Popularity

 Wednesday May 8, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

NEXT WEEK

Mexican Fiesta
+ 4 Things – Multiple Me’s
We celebrate the culture of our sponsor child Gloria
including pinatas and free tacos!
+ 4 things that trip us up concludes with Multiple Me’s

 Wednesday May 15, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: FREE

LAST WEEK

Last weekend was we recuperated from our busy retreat weekend by watching a movie (Ice Age: Continential Drift) and playing basketball in the gym.  There was no small group discussion or topic for the evening.

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

PARENT LINK

Homeword’s Good Advice Parent Newsletter – May
Includes: Improving Communication with Your Teenager
Think Before You Speak
Learning the Art of Stealth Communication
Confession is Good for the Soul – and Your Family

PARENT HOME GROUP

While your child is in Threshold JR,
you are invited to participate in a Home Group
across the hall in Room A4.
We worship the Lord and study God’s Word.
We fellowship and pray together.
And we laugh together.

Time: Wednesday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.,
Contact Helen at 452-9767, or just come on over and join us.
You are welcome at anytime.

]]> Continue reading →]]> 0 http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/count-your-blessings http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/count-your-blessings#comments Mon, 06 May 2013 14:59:43 +0000 Isaac http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/?p=8287 http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/count-your-blessings/feed 0 Isaac This message was recorded at our Fort Garry campus on May 5, 2013.

Lord Jesus forgive me for failing to rest in your unending presence with me.  You will not leave me, let this bring great peace to me.

Lord, guard my heart that I might stop to worship at the right “places”.

What is your motive for your worship and your walk with God?  Lord Jesus, I want to respond to you from a heart of gratitude.  Let there be true worship and thanksgiving resounding from my heart because I am free from sin, guilt and condemnation.

Often we dismiss people because they are sinners or their conduct is out of line. Some might argue that though people thought Jesus was sinful, He actually was perfect, and there is a huge difference between ignoring Jesus and avoiding or ignoring sinful people. Yet Jesus said that what we do to one of these least we’ve done it unto Him (Matt 25:40).  Ouch, we are back to our rejection of Jesus.

Lord Jesus, I don’t want to reject or dismiss You. Help me not to dismiss others that are different or that don’t quite fitting the expectations that I have.

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parents

THIS WEEK (Grade 9-12)

There is no regular Threshold this week due to the Retreat.
(You need to be registered to attend)

THRESHOLD RETREAT

May 3-5

Drop-off at Church of the Rock on Friday May 3 @ 5:30 p.m.
**Eat before you come, Supper is NOT provided on Friday.
Pickup at Church of the rock on Sunday May 5 @ 4:00 p.m.

What to bring:

Meals will provided Saturday-Sunday plus a snack on Friday night
 Sleeping bag or bed roll / Twin Sheet for mattress
 Pillow
 Clothing – dress for warm & cold the entire weekend and bring extra socks
 Jacket (rain jacket and rain pants recommended)
 Swimsuit & towel
 Toiletries
 Outdoor shoes and indoor shoes/slippers
 Rubber Boots
 Outdoor clothes (prepare for rain/mud)
 Plastic bags for dirty laundry and wet clothes
 Water bottle

NEXT WEEK

Out Night ($5)

This week we will be doing small groups in different locations around the city. Each small group will decide when they get to Threshold, where they want to do their small groups. Many groups go to places like a leaders house, Starbucks or Tim Horton’s to do their small group discussion.

The night will start and end at the regular time (7:11 p.m. –10:00 p.m.) COST: $5

Friday May 10, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase) 

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

PARENT LINK

The Parent Link May Newsletter
Includes: Equip Kids For Making Choices
The Role of Emotions: Expert Insights for Parents of Teenager
Media Spotlights on:Snoop Lion, Andy Mineo and more…

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parents

THIS WEEK (Grade 9-12)

There is no regular Threshold this week due to the Retreat.
(You need to be registered to attend)

THRESHOLD RETREAT

May 3-5

Drop-off at Church of the Rock on Friday May 3 @ 5:30 p.m.
**Eat before you come, Supper is NOT provided on Friday.
Pickup at Church of the rock on Sunday May 5 @ 4:00 p.m.

What to bring:

Meals will provided Saturday-Sunday plus a snack on Friday night
 Sleeping bag or bed roll / Twin Sheet for mattress
 Pillow
 Clothing – dress for warm & cold the entire weekend and bring extra socks
 Jacket (rain jacket and rain pants recommended)
 Swimsuit & towel
 Toiletries
 Outdoor shoes and indoor shoes/slippers
 Rubber Boots
 Outdoor clothes (prepare for rain/mud)
 Plastic bags for dirty laundry and wet clothes
 Water bottle

NEXT WEEK

Out Night ($5)

This week we will be doing small groups in different locations around the city. Each small group will decide when they get to Threshold, where they want to do their small groups. Many groups go to places like a leaders house, Starbucks or Tim Horton’s to do their small group discussion.

The night will start and end at the regular time (7:11 p.m. –10:00 p.m.) COST: $5

Friday May 10, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase) 

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

YOUTUBE DISCUSSION

If you no longer wish to receive these emails, please reply and say “Unsubscribe” (DO NOT click on the “Unsubscribe” link below). Church of the Rock 1397 Buffalo Place Winnipeg, MB R3T 1L6 Phone: (204)261-0070 or 1-877-700-ROCK (7625) Email: jason@churchoftherock.ca (Jason Peters)

]]> Continue reading →]]> 0 http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/threshold-jr-parents-may-1-2013 http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/threshold-jr-parents-may-1-2013#comments Mon, 29 Apr 2013 21:48:40 +0000 Tim Hamm http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/?p=8259 Continue reading →]]> http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/threshold-jr-parents-may-1-2013/feed 0 Tim Hamm Click here to view online or to leave a comment.

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parent

THIS WEEK

Movie & Basketball Night
After a crazy retreat weekend, it’s time to relax. 
Free popcorn & a movie
Basketball in the gym 

Wednesday May 1, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock 
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

NEXT WEEK

Who Wants to Be a TV Star?
+ 4 Things – Popularity
Now is your chance to be a TV star!
+ 4 things that trip us up continues with Popularity

 Wednesday May 8, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: FREE

LAST WEEK

Last weekend was our Threshold Jr Retreat at Camp Arnes.  It was a fantastic weekend where we covered a variety of topics including developing a passion for Jesus, sharing your faith with others, heaven, and spending time alone with God.

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

PARENT LINK

The Parent Link May Newsletter
Includes: Equip Kids For Making Choices
The Role of Emotions: Expert Insights for Parents of Teenager
Media Spotlights on:Snoop Lion, Andy Mineo and more…

PARENT HOME GROUP

While your child is in Threshold JR,
you are invited to participate in a Home Group
across the hall in Room A4.
We worship the Lord and study God’s Word.
We fellowship and pray together.
And we laugh together.

Time: Wednesday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.,
Contact Helen at 452-9767, or just come on over and join us.
You are welcome at anytime.

]]> Continue reading →]]> 0 http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/threshold-jr-may-1-2013 http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/threshold-jr-may-1-2013#comments Mon, 29 Apr 2013 21:16:20 +0000 Tim Hamm http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/?p=8252 Continue reading →]]> http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/threshold-jr-may-1-2013/feed 0 Tim Hamm Click here to view online or to leave a comment.

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parent

THIS WEEK (Grade 6-8)

Movie & Basketball Night
After a crazy retreat weekend, it’s time to relax. 
Free popcorn & a movie
Basketball in the gym 

Wednesday May 1, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock 
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

NEXT WEEK

Who Wants to Be a TV Star?
+ 4 Things – Popularity
Now is your chance to be a TV star!
+ 4 things that trip us up continues with Popularity

 Wednesday May 8, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: FREE

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

YOUTUBE DISCUSSION

At times God uses the pressures around us to bring us to the point of wanting to change. Don’t push off the changes that are necessary for a successful life in God. Keep your commitments to The Lord.

Take a moment to remember the past promises you have made to God and then ask God to help you to keep these promises.

Lord help us to respond to your desire to change our priorities so we will willingly do Your work.

Did you notice the difference between the disciples perspective and Jesus perspective?  The disciples had a preconceived concept of what the answer could be.  Jesus gave the reason but in giving it He showed that He was already looking beyond the problem to what God was doing, the eternal perspective. Jesus saw how “God should be manifested (displayed and illustrated) in him.” (John 9:3 AMPLIFIED Version). When problems and disappointments come, where do we look?  Do we see what was not right and then look to who or what was at fault, or are we able to look beyond that to see what God was going to do in the situation.

Lord, help us to look with the expectation that You will be made manifest, that You will be displayed, and that You will show Yourself in the situation. May we look with confidence beyond the failures and disappointments to see You at work.

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parents

THIS WEEK (Grade 9-12)

MOVIE NIGHT
This week we will be watching a movie with unlimited popcorn. 

Friday April 26, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)  

NEXT WEEK

THRESHOLD RETREAT

May 3-5

Drop-off at Church of the Rock on Friday May 3 @ 5:30 p.m.
**Eat before you come, Supper is NOT provided on Friday.
Pickup at Church of the rock on Sunday May 5 @ 4:00 p.m.

What to bring:

Meals will provided Saturday-Sunday plus a snack on Friday night
 Sleeping bag or bed roll / Twin Sheet for mattress
 Pillow
 Clothing – dress for warm & cold the entire weekend and bring extra socks
 Jacket (rain jacket and rain pants recommended)
 Swimsuit & towel
 Toiletries
 Outdoor shoes and indoor shoes/slippers
 Outdoor clothes (prepare for rain/mud)
 Plastic bags for dirty laundry and wet clothes
 Water bottle
 $$ for Canteen

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

PARENT LINK

Homeword Good Advice Parent Newsletter – The Power of Forgiveness
Includes: The Transforming Power of Forgiveness
How to Move Past Your Past
What Your Kids Need to Know About Forgiveness
Forgiveness Can Transform Your Marriage

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parents

THIS WEEK (Grade 9-12)

MOVIE NIGHT
This week we will be watching a movie with unlimited popcorn. 

Friday April 26, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase) 

NEXT WEEK

THRESHOLD RETREAT

May 3-5

Drop-off at Church of the Rock on Friday May 3 @ 5:30 p.m.
**Eat before you come, Supper is NOT provided on Friday.
Pickup at Church of the rock on Sunday May 5 @ 4:00 p.m.

What to bring:

Meals will provided Saturday-Sunday plus a snack on Friday night
 Sleeping bag or bed roll / Twin Sheet for mattress
 Pillow
 Clothing – dress for warm & cold the entire weekend and bring extra socks
 Jacket (rain jacket and rain pants recommended)
 Swimsuit & towel
 Toiletries
 Outdoor shoes and indoor shoes/slippers
 Outdoor clothes (prepare for rain/mud)
 Plastic bags for dirty laundry and wet clothes
 Water bottle
 $$ for Canteen

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

YOUTUBE DISCUSSION

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parent

THIS WEEK

NO THRESHOLD JR APRIL 24
Because of our retreat on the weekend there is no Threshold Jr this Wednesday.

THRESHOLD JR RETREAT

April 26-28
CLICK HERE FOR A PACKING LIST AND TIMES
** Also bring $$ if you want for Canteen **

NEXT WEEK

Movie & Basketball Night
After a crazy retreat weekend, it’s time to relax. 
Free popcorn & a movie
Basketball in the gym 

Wednesday May 1, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock 
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

LAST WEEK

Our small groups are continuing their series tackling four topics that can be struggles for junior high students. In this second lesson, we examined the dangers of gossip by discussing Proverbs 16:28 and other biblical passages that reveal the consequences of this unhealthy habit.

God calls us to live lives built on love, and he has instructed us to use our words toward that purpose. Our words have great potential to bring good—to encourage and heal others’ hearts. We can provide this gift of encouragement to people around us.

We encouraged our students to focus on knowing God’s truth about gossip so they can be prepared to handle situations where gossip is spoken or heard. They can decide what they will say or not say in those situations. They can be change-agents for good in their schools, communities, and homes through the power of their words.

Here are some questions you might want to use as you talk with your teenager about this week’s lesson:

•  What are some of the negative effects of gossip? What do they do to relationships? How have you been affected by gossip.
• How easy or difficult is it for a person to avoid gossip?
• If gossip separates the best of friends, like the Bible says, what kinds of words bring friends even closer together?

Have a blessed week!

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

PARENT LINK

Homeword Good Advice Parent Newsletter – The Power of Forgiveness
Includes: The Transforming Power of Forgiveness
How to Move Past Your Past
What Your Kids Need to Know About Forgiveness
Forgiveness Can Transform Your Marriage

PARENT HOME GROUP

While your child is in Threshold JR,
you are invited to participate in a Home Group
across the hall in Room A4.
We worship the Lord and study God’s Word.
We fellowship and pray together.
And we laugh together.

Time: Wednesday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.,
Contact Helen at 452-9767, or just come on over and join us.
You are welcome at anytime.

]]> Continue reading →]]> 0 http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/no-threshold-jr-this-week-april-24 http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/no-threshold-jr-this-week-april-24#comments Mon, 22 Apr 2013 18:54:44 +0000 Tim Hamm http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/?p=8213 Continue reading →]]> http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/no-threshold-jr-this-week-april-24/feed 0 Tim Hamm Click here to view online or to leave a comment.

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parent

THIS WEEK (Grade 6-8)

NO THRESHOLD JR APRIL 24
Because of our retreat on the weekend there is no Threshold Jr this Wednesday.

THRESHOLD JR RETREAT INFO

CLICK HERE FOR A PACKING LIST AND TIMES

** Also bring $$ if you want for Canteen **

NEXT WEEK

Movie & Basketball Night
After a crazy retreat weekend, it’s time to relax.
Free popcorn & a movie
Basketball in the gym 

Wednesday May 1, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock 
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

YOUTUBE DISCUSSION

It is interesting that God says that He will not only take Judah away captive, but also that it will be for their own good.  “Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel: ‘Like these good figs, so will I acknowledge those who are carried away captive from Judah, whom I have sent out of this place for their own good, into the land of the Chaldeans (Jeremiah 24:5 NKJV)”.  God in His nature of being love, (1 John 4:16 – “God is love”) takes what looks like evil and in love makes it into good for us.   This place and experience which seemed so wrong, was actually something good.   A form of protection provided by God.   Of course, when we are looking from our short sighted view, instead of God’s all seeing perspective, we only see the immediate situation of discomfort.  God sees the long-range outlook of good.

Lord Jesus, help us to see through Your eyes.  When we don’t clearly see what your purposes are, then help us to trust in Your loving and good nature, knowing that Your thoughts towards us are good.

The apostle John writes in 3 John 11 “Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. He who does good is of God, but he who does evil has not seen God.”  We are encouraged to imitate what is good. We are not just to do what is good when we have the right feelings or emotions. We are to imitate or copy what is good at all times. This is the right thing to do.

Lord Jesus help us to do good even when our heart is not in the action.

What is this goodness of God’s house which satisfies? I don’t think that the Psalmist was saying that the church building would be something which would satisfy him.  Instead it would be God Himself Who truly satisfies. To some, the very thought that God in Himself would satisfy us seems like a strange or foreign thought.  That would probably be an indication of how little we actually get fulfillment or satisfaction from our present relationship with Him.

Lord may we experience lasting satisfaction in You.

]]> Continue reading →]]> 1 http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/threshold-parents-april-19-2013 http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/threshold-parents-april-19-2013#comments Mon, 15 Apr 2013 21:06:37 +0000 Tim Hamm http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/?p=8197 Continue reading →]]> http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/threshold-parents-april-19-2013/feed 0 Tim Hamm Click here to view online or to leave a comment.

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parents

THIS WEEK (Grade 9-12)

WWJD – Get That Log Out of Your Eye!
+ Family Feud
Have you ever been judged or judged someone?  
That’s the topic of discussion this week
We will also be playing FAMILY FEUD!! 

Friday April 19, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)  

NEXT WEEK

MOVIE NIGHT
This week we will be watching a movie with unlimited popcorn. 

Friday April 26, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free

THRESHOLD RETREAT

May 3-5
Cost: $120 (For those that fund-raised at PK the cost is only $50)
We are heading to Camp Arnes for an action packed weekend
full of fun, food, friends & growing in God!
DOWNLOAD REGISTRATION INFO HERE 

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

PARENT LINK

CPYU Parent Page – April 2013
Includes: Electronic Addiction
Snapchat
Video Gaming and Sleep and more…

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parents

THIS WEEK (Grade 9-12)

WWJD – Get That Log Out of Your Eye!
+ Family Feud
Have you ever been judged or judged someone?   
That’s the topic of discussion this week 
We will also be playing FAMILY FEUD!! 

Friday April 19, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase) 

NEXT WEEK

MOVIE NIGHT
This week we will be watching a movie with unlimited popcorn. 

Friday April 26, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free

THRESHOLD RETREAT

May 3-5
Cost: $120 (For those that fund-raised at PK the cost is only $50)
We are heading to Camp Arnes for an action packed weekend
full of fun, food, friends & growing in God!
DOWNLOAD REGISTRATION INFO HERE 

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

YOUTUBE DISCUSSION

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parent

THIS WEEK

Minute to Win It
+ 4 Things – Gossip
You have a minute…to win some fabulous prizes!
4 things that trip us up continues with Gossip 

Wednesday April 17, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock 
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

NEXT WEEK

NO THRESHOLD JR APRIL 24
Because of our retreat on the weekend there is no Threshold Jr this Wednesday.

LAST WEEK

Our small groups have launched a new, four-week series tackling four topics that can be struggles for junior high students. In this first lesson, we examined the dangers of lying by discussing a story found in Acts 5:1-10.

Ananias and Sapphira brought a donation to the early church leaders, claiming that it was the full amount of money they earned from the sale of some property. But it was a lie—and God struck them dead for their deception. Obviously, God doesn’t kill all of us when we lie, but we do pay the price for our lies through damaged friendships and a wounded relationship with God.

We encouraged our students to recognize how much God loves honesty but hates lies, how our lies can affect our lives, and the value of confession and forgiveness.

Here are some questions you might want to use as you talk with your teenager about this week’s lesson:

• Why do people lie?
• What are some ways your lies can hurt other people? yourself? your friendship with God?
• What are some possible benefits of confessing a lie to someone and asking for their forgiveness?

I pray that this is a blessed week for you and your family!

THRESHOLD JR RETREAT

April 26-28
CLICK HERE FOR A PACKING LIST AND TIMES

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

PARENT LINK

CPYU Parent Page – April 2013
Includes: Electronic Addiction
Snapchat
Video Gaming and Sleep and more…

PARENT HOME GROUP

While your child is in Threshold JR,
you are invited to participate in a Home Group
across the hall in Room A4.
We worship the Lord and study God’s Word.
We fellowship and pray together.
And we laugh together.

Time: Wednesday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.,
Contact Helen at 452-9767, or just come on over and join us.
You are welcome at anytime.

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parent

THIS WEEK (Grade 6-8)

Minute to Win It
+ 4 Things – Gossip
You have a minute…to win some fabulous prizes!
4 things that trip us up continues with Gossip 

Wednesday April 17, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock 
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

NEXT WEEK

NO THRESHOLD JR APRIL 24
Because of our retreat on the weekend there is no Threshold Jr this Wednesday.

THRESHOLD JR RETREAT INFO

CLICK HERE FOR A PACKING LIST AND TIMES

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

YOUTUBE DISCUSSION

As a nation we have started down many a slippery path.  One such example has been the abortion issue.  Many think the debate has been decided that it is over and down with. What they may not realize or will not admit is that it put us onto a dangerous and deadly path.  Because Canada has no abortion laws whatsoever, fetuses can be aborted legally right up until moments before natural birth without impunity.  Thankfully that does not happen often as most doctors are far more reasonable than to do such an obvious murderous act.   However the slippery slope has led us down another treacherous path, that of sex selection abortion.  In many cultures around the world, male children are preferred over female.  So in places like China with a ‘one child’ policy the parents will abort a female fetus and try again in hopes of getting a male.  With some couples this scenario may be repeated several times until a male is conceived.  The map below shows that males under 5 years outnumber girls in every single province, some by as much as 30%.  The result of this slippery slope will be catastrophic in 20 years when these young men will literally not be able to find a woman to marry.  Will they have to institute a marriage lottery to determine who gets a wife?

The United Nations estimates that 200 million women and girls are missing due to gendercide, and stated: “Renewed and concerted efforts are needed by governments and civil society to address the deeply rooted gender discrimination which lies at the heart of sex selection.”  Even the normally morally liberal UN feels governments need to act to reverse this trend.  Canada is doing nothing… actually worse than nothing which we will get to in a moment.

In June 2012, the CBC aired an investigation on gender selection. With hidden cameras they visited 22 private ultrasound clinics in Canada. They found that most of these clinics were allowing ultrasounds to tell the sex of the baby so that the parents could choose to terminate the pregnancy if the unborn child is female.

All of this is bad enough in itself but this is where it gets worse, much worse.  On March 28th Conservative MP Mark Warawa attempted to introduce a motion in the House of Commons.  Motion 408 merely asked that the House condemn discrimination against females occurring through sex-selective pregnancy termination.  The motion would have had no legal ramifications but it would have at least represented a sentiment of the Canadian values on this issue.  Warawa claims that 92% of Canadians want the practice of sex selection condemned.  The Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs’ rejected his motion and he was not permitted to even introduce it in the House.   Then when he later wanted to speak on the issue on what is a called a ‘point of privilege’ his own party would not let him speak.

As a Canadian that believes in democracy this really angers me.  And it should anger every one of us.  I understand Steven Harper’s reluctance to allow the abortion debate to be reopened, but his misguided sense of political survival is trumping his sense of democratic freedom.  Once you begin to muzzle the free speech of your own MP’s you have started down the slippery slope to the totalitarianism that exists in places like North Korea, Cuba and Syria to name only a few.  In a pathetic attempt to appear untainted by the abortion issue our government has resorted to suspending democracy.  The British Westminster system of government that Canada employs has always afforded MP’s the right to represent their own views or those of their constituents.  It is called the House of Commons for a reason.  It was always meant to be the place where the ‘common’ man could be democratically represented.  I am profoundly disappointed in Steven Harper’s heavy handed approach to handling his MP’s.   He has nothing to lose by allowing Warawa to proceed.  If the House of Commons accepts his motion, or rejects it, that is a reflection on the sentiment of the House not Harper’s government.

The snowball has picked up some new momentum on the way down this slippery slope. This is far more serious than most people realize.  We are not only talking about human lives and social engineering but democracy itself.  At some point you reach the breaking point where you begin an irreversible slide.  Let me leave you with one more very short video.  It is not as terrifying as the last but you will get the point.  No skiers were harmed in the making of this film.

In  John 8:39 Jesus challenged the Pharisees by saying, “”If you were Abraham’s children, you would do the works of Abraham.”   In other words, they should be living up to the name of the one whom they called their father.  Who do we have for our Father?  Is there an expectation that we would be living up to the name and standards of Him?  I believe that there is such an expectation.  Jesus says later in John 8:42, “If God were your Father, you would love Me.” Jesus then ties this unique relationship that we have with Him, and He with the Father, when He says in John 14:12 “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father.”  There is an expectation that we would “live up to” this holy relationship which we have, but we cannot do this on our own.  That is why Jesus says that without Him we can do nothing (John 15:5).

Heavenly Father, thank You that You call us to a relationship with You, through Jesus Christ.  Thank You for helping us to be like You.

How unfortunate that we have lost the virtue of doing things, just because they are honourable and right.  It is the proper thing to do, so it is done.  Knowing that we are doing what is right, in itself, should be our reward.  Desiring to be an honorable person.  In our society building lives upon honour enables all to be honourable, if they just choose to do what is right and live honourably.  However since many don’t receive worth because of living a life of true honour their lives are built upon competition.  Competition implies trying to get our worth and significance from being better than others.  This is always at the expense of others.

Proverbs 4:8 says, “If you prize wisdom, she will make you great.  Embrace her, and she will honor you.”

Lord Jesus help me to walk honourably before You, to fulfill my responsibilities in my role.  Let me be a person who consistently does what is honourable in all situations.

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parents

THIS WEEK (Grade 9-12)

OUT NIGHT! (Cost: $5)
WWJD (Love your Enemies?)
This week we will be doing small groups in different locations around the city.
Each small group will decide when they get to Threshold this night
where they want to do their small groups. We often have groups go to
places like a leaders house, Starbucks or Tim Horton’s to do their small group discussion.

The night will start and end at the regular time (7:11 p.m. –10:00 p.m.)
and the cost for this event is $5 a student.

Friday April 12, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: $5

NEXT WEEK

WWJD – Get That Log Out of Your Eye!
+ Family Feud
Have you ever been judged or judged someone?   
That’s the topic of discussion this week 
We will also be playing FAMILY FEUD!! 

Friday April 19, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase) 

THRESHOLD RETREAT

May 3-5
Cost: $120 (For those that fund-raised at PK the cost is only $50)
We are heading to Camp Arnes for an action packed weekend
full of fun, food, friends & growing in God!
DOWNLOAD REGISTRATION INFO HERE 

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

YOUTUBE DISCUSSION

Topic: 
Stress

Bible: 
Colossians 3:13;  Nehemiah 4:14

Discussion Starter:
Sometimes, don’t you just feel like screaming? It’s understandable as life can be very stressful.

God called Nehemiah to go back to Jerusalem, rebuild the walls, in an effort to help protect the inhabitants from attack and begin restoring the city to its former prestige. But when he arrived in Jerusalem to do this great work, he met all sorts of opposition. Needless to say, he was stressed out!

Nehemiah gives us an excellent example of how how we can deal with everyday stress. He dealt with things like workers not doing the work correctly, people making fun of him, people threatening to harm him physically, and people intimidating him. As you read Nehemiah’s story you begin to see a pattern in his life.  When a stressful time hit you see Nehemiah call on God in prayer for guidance.

“After I looked things over, I stood up and said to the nobles, the officials and the rest of the people, “Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.”
Nehemiah 4:14

Sometimes when we’re stressed out it’s good to take some time to talk to God and ask him for perspective.

3 Questions:

• Would you rather get yelled at by a goat or a sibling?
• Have you ever seen or heard an animal do something really crazy?
• When are times when you are most stressed out?

Chew on this: 
If Colossians 3:13 says I should bear with and forgive people who get on my nerves, does that mean I can’t ever hope they’ll change?

If you no longer wish to receive these emails, please reply and say “Unsubscribe” (DO NOT click on the “Unsubscribe” link below). Church of the Rock 1397 Buffalo Place Winnipeg, MB R3T 1L6 Phone: (204)261-0070 or 1-877-700-ROCK (7625) Email: jason@churchoftherock.ca (Jason Peters)

]]> Continue reading →]]> 0 http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/threshold-parents-april-12-2013 http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/threshold-parents-april-12-2013#comments Mon, 08 Apr 2013 17:16:57 +0000 Tim Hamm http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/?p=8130 Continue reading →]]> http://www.churchoftherock.ca/blog/threshold-parents-april-12-2013/feed 0 Tim Hamm Click here to view online or to leave a comment.

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parents

THIS WEEK (Grade 9-12)

OUT NIGHT! (Cost: $5)
WWJD – Love your Enemies?
This week we will be doing small groups in different locations around the city.
Each small group will decide when they get to Threshold this night
where they want to do their small groups. We often have groups go to
places like a leaders house, Starbucks or Tim Horton’s to do their small group discussion.

The night will start and end at the regular time (7:11 p.m. –10:00 p.m.)
and the cost for this event is $5 a student.

Friday April 12, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: $5

NEXT WEEK

WWJD – Get That Log Out of Your Eye!
+ Family Feud
Have you ever been judged or judged someone?  
That’s the topic of discussion this week
We will also be playing FAMILY FEUD!! 

Friday April 19, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: Free
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase) 

THRESHOLD RETREAT

May 3-5
Cost: $120 (For those that fund-raised at PK the cost is only $50)
We are heading to Camp Arnes for an action packed weekend
full of fun, food, friends & growing in God!
DOWNLOAD REGISTRATION INFO HERE 

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

PARENT LINK

HomeWord Good Advice Parent Newsletter - Teens & Consequences
Includes: Let the Punishment Fit the Crime
Does Grounding Your Teenager Work?
Growing Repectful Kids by Using Consequences
Identify Choices and Consequences

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parent

THIS WEEK (Grade 6-8)

Hockey Night At Threshold
+ 4 Things – Lying
Floor hockey in the gym (Optional)
Hangout/Cafe in The Cage for others
New series on 4 things that trip us up in life
starting with Lying 

Wednesday April 10, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock 
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

NEXT WEEK

Minute to Win It
+ 4 Things – Gossip
You have a minute…to win some fabulous prizes!
4 things that trip us up continues with Gossip 

Wednesday April 17, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock 
Cost: FREE

THRESHOLD JR RETREAT

April 26-28
Cost: $120
(For those that fund-raised at PK the cost is only $50)
We are heading to Camp Arnes for an action packed weekend
full of fun, food, friends & growing in God!
DOWNLOAD REGISTRATION INFO HERE 

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

YOUTUBE DISCUSSION

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parent

THIS WEEK

Hockey Night At Threshold
+ 4 Things – Lying
Floor hockey in the gym (Optional)
Hangout/Cafe in The Cage for others
New series on 4 things that trip us up in life
starting with Lying 

Wednesday April 10, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock 
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

NEXT WEEK

Minute to Win It
+ 4 Things – Gossip
You have a minute…to win some fabulous prizes!
4 things that trip us up continues with Gossip 

Wednesday April 17, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock 
Cost: FREE

LAST WEEK

Our small group wrapped up our series on dealing with life’s pain and struggles. Using Colossians 3:12-17, we saw how we can make a difference in the life of a friend who’s going through the process of healing and change.

The Apostle Paul wrote these words to a group of Christians living in a city located in modern-day Turkey. In chapter 3, Paul addresses what it means to be a follower of Jesus—specifically, the new life we experience because of this relationship with Christ.

The passage we examined offers a wealth of practical ways to display love and concern for other Christians, but these truths can extend to all of our relationships. God wants us to be kind, merciful, gentle, patient, kind, forgiving, and loving to all people, not just fellow followers of Jesus.

As you talk to your teenager about this lesson, here are some questions you might want to incorporate this week:

•  Sometimes we feel like our problems are too big for God—or too small for God to care! Why do we have those thoughts?
• How might your words or your presence help a friend in the process of healing and change?
• Think about your friendship with God—your faith as a Christian. How have you seen your trust grow recently? What has helped your trust in God grow?

Thanks for your prayers for our ministry. Have a blessed week!

THRESHOLD JR RETREAT

April 26-28
Cost: $120
(For those that fund-raised at PK the cost is only $50)
We are heading to Camp Arnes for an action packed weekend
full of fun, food, friends & growing in God!
DOWNLOAD REGISTRATION INFO HERE 

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

PARENT LINK

HomeWord Good Advice Parent Newsletter - Teens & Consequences
Includes: Let the Punishment Fit the Crime
Does Grounding Your Teenager Work?
Growing Repectful Kids by Using Consequences
Identify Choices and Consequences

PARENT HOME GROUP

While your child is in Threshold JR,
you are invited to participate in a Home Group
across the hall in Room A4.
We worship the Lord and study God’s Word.
We fellowship and pray together.
And we laugh together.

Time: Wednesday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.,
Contact Helen at 452-9767, or just come on over and join us.
You are welcome at anytime.

Lord help us not to focus on how people are reacting towards us but to be faithful to our jobs and to those around us.

The commands of God are not to keep us from life but for “our good” that we might have life.  Instead of thinking that God is trying to keep us from what appears to be life giving, we need to understand that God is trying to keep us from what He knows to be life robbing.  When we see how God is trying to provide what is good for us then we can agree with the apostle John who said in 1 John 5:3, “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome.”  These commands are not burdensome because we understand how He loves us and His ways bring life.

Lord, we often question Your ways and Your commands because we look through our eyes, forgive us.  Help us to trust that You know best and that Your commands have our best interests at stake.  Give us the strength to obey You with a willing heart.

Throughout the service we sang songs of worship and remembrance of Jesus’ love for us, listened to the story of the crucifixion (Mark 15:6-39) and learned more about how His sacrifice means that we can be Redeemed/Forgiven (Ephesians 1:7 ), Reconciled (Colossians 1:20), Cleansed (1 Peter 1:2), Justified (Romans 5:9), Sanctified (Hebrews 13:12) and Purified (Hebrews 9:14), as well as receiving Physical Healing (1 Peter 2:24) and Propitiation (Romans 3:23–25).  We were encouraged to consider one of these thoughts and write out our personal thanks to God for His promise and provision in that particular area.  These thoughts were later handed in on papers at the communion stations or texted in to be seen on the projection screens as an outpouring of thanks and praise from our hearts as a whole congregation during the communion portion of the service.

As part of our celebration, we concluded the service with a time of refreshments and visiting – a great chance for us to commemorate the day together as family, not just individuals.  As one couple remarked:

“Thank you for the Hot Cross Buns, fruit and cheese curds each Good Friday. It is such a lovely treat and time of fellowship. We know it is a lot if work and expense but it is so appreciated. The Good Friday service and time afterwards is our favourite in the whole year because it is meaningful and our church feels like a family.”

What follows here are the text messages that came in (with only personal information removed), and as you read them, may your heart be inspired to respond with thanks to God as well!

• When I don’t meet my own expectations You still love me
• Your blood covers all my many faults
• I am alive in You though my mistakes are many
• In my turmoil there is peace that is greater than my struggles
• Thank you for my future husband
• I am grateful I have been blessed with the most amazing husband.
• Sometimes you get carried away but it’s nice to come together at the time of thanks
• Thank you Father for all that You do all the time. I want to Thank you for Your continued healing. I know that everyday You are making me better. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
• I’m thankful for the job You will provide for my family.
• We are so greatful for our bun in the oven!
• Thankful for the Church of the Rock community
• For his grace, mercy, love and forgiveness. For family and blessings abundantly
• I am thankful to God because salvation through Christ does not require money; its paid for.
• God ALWAYS calls us back to His heart and welcomes us with open arms and an open heart.
• Thank You Jesus for Church of the Rock, A Holy Spirit led Church.
• I am thankful that God doesn’t just love, but God IS love and he has only live for me and that he IS good, and expresses his goodness to me
• thank you Jesus for bringing my family together as one, and your continued work you are doing now. I pray that you will give my mom and dad a long life. thank you Jesus.
• I loved you at your darkest Romans 5:8
• Thank you LORD that our names are written in heaven. Wow!
• Thank you for the healing  that Jesus is bringing to my body
• Thank you Lord for your rest and peace that you pour upon my life. Thank you for your provision, love and your overflowing grace.
• Thank you for bringing back our sons to Jesus
• God is still large and in charge and will see my situation through and we will have victory in Jesus name
• Though my sins are many, thank you that your mercies are new every morning.
• He is so good to me that I am at a loss for words. He is absolutely faithful, He never leaves me. He forgives me, disciplines me, loves me, teaches me and saves me
• I am thankful for the healing that was paid through the stripes Jesus bore on my behalf.
• I thank you Jesus you will heal our land. from  family to friends to people that are in our lives.
• I am thankful that God gives me hope for my hearts desire
• Im thankful for the boys
• For forgiveness and his love over me, my academics and my family.
• I pray to God to reveal his purpose in my life, so that I will know his plans for me in his kingdom.
• Thank God for His peace in the midst of the storm because Jesus had made Peace on my behalf through His blood on the cross. Everytime I am in a crisis, a peace overwhelms me and keeps me sane in it and thank God for He  ALWAYS took control. THANK YOU LORD. I love you Lord.
• Thank you God for your forgiveness for all my sin!
• In my dads poor health and wayword brothers terrible choices God will see them through in Jesus name I am thankful that I know Christ today
• I am thankful God for the protection and love . You have shown this protection  and love most clearly during dark uncertain times when fear could take over You came through! Thank you for showing Your presence and giving us peace.
• I am thankful that in my brothers turmoil  God is in charge
• Feeling  so thankful and exciting that our god sat us free. He gave us the freedom to face our true hearts and opportunities  to make our choices.
• What love you have for me
• I am thankful for propitiation -God’s grace to me
• I am so empty by myself but You are with me, thank you!
• You encourage me to bring my eyes back to You especially when I feel unworthy.
• Jesus loved me through my addiction, and I am completely purified. THANK YOU!
• You cover all my faults, Thank You
• I am thankful that you are ever present with me in all situations.
• I am so thankful for the most wonderful wife the Lord has provided for me.
• You have given so much, what love for me!!!
• lord thank you for being so amazing to me! you saved me , cleaned me up! no matter what have done, no matter how wrong I had been. you still embrace me with you wonderful love, telling me how much you have loved and will be keeping loving me internally ! thank you lord! my most precious one
• There is no one like you
• Thank you for your love
• God thank you so much for your immense patience with me and my sins. Thank you for your forgiveness, mercy and love.
• Thank you for all you have done for me
• I’m thankful for the peace of accepting your agenda daily and letting go of my own
• Thank you Lord for that you have done in my life.
• Thank you for the life
• I am thankful for the prosperous life HE gave me.
• God is always faithful in His love for us!
• Thank you for the unending LOVE!
• Cleanse me o’Lord and purify my heart.
• The work of the cross to me is two fold:  Firstly, it frees us from receiving the punishment for what we deserve because of our sin. Secondly, it allows us to receive the blessing of God, of which we do NOT deserve, except by the grace of God,  through Jesus Christ!!!
• Thank you for saying “”No”" because your plan is better than mine ever could have been
• I know you love me
• I am very thankful for God’s purification in me….thankyou Jesus -guilt doesn’t manipulate me….thankyou Jesus! I am righjteous in ur eyes…u hear all my prayers!
• Thank you God for all the miracles and comfort you have shown me in the past 6 months!
• There is greater love than this
• Thank you for releasing me from the ropes that bound me.
• Thank you God that not only do you remove my sins as far as the east is from the west but that you them from my conscience as well.
• Thank you for your sacrifice that has made me blameless
• thank you for the cross lord we wouldn’t be here if it wasnt for you. You are Everlastinf
• Thank you that you smile down on me instead of seeing my faults!!
• You tore the veil
• Thank you for reconciling my relationship to my parents!
• Thank you for taking all my sins to the cross repeatedly!
• Thank you that I am being sanctified, purified, and justified, but not glorified.  Only you are worthy of the glory.
• Thank you for your innocent blood shed for my sake
• As He was faithful unto death, I can’t help but lay my life at His feet to be sanctified by the blood of Him who reigns forever more.  Thank you Jesus. I love you
• Thanks you lord for my family.  Thanks you for the cross and the blessings.
• Thank you that you went ALL THE WAY to the cross for the joy set before you!!!!
• Thanks you Jesus for dying for and my family.
• I thank god and Jesus for the peace and balance he has brought to my life.
• Thank You Jesus for Your ultimate sacrifice!!!!
• Thank You God for bringing me here today with my mom and my son
• Thank you, God, that You made a way, for me, within this day, every day.
• Thank you that in my impurity you have made me pure
• Thank you Jesus I’m forever JUSTIFIED
• You are so worthy to be praised! What a great provider u r!!! U r so so faithful.
• Thank you lord for everything you did today so we could be forgiven for our sins. Thank you for the cross
• To think i am holy is humbling
• Thank you Jesus that you made me pure.
• god thank you for everything you have done for me. thank you for the great plan you have prepared for my life!
• Thank you that your death brings me life
• Thank you for the benefits of the finished work on the cross of calvary.
• Thank you for the cross thank you for the blood you shed for us and taking all our burdens and loving me for who I am
• Thank you God for your mercies and favor today and forever. Thank you for everything.
• Thank you for not turning your back on me when it feels everyone else has. Thank you for cleansing me
• Thank you for your sacarfice lord Jesus
• Thank you Jesus for paying the price for me.
• Thank You for covering my regrets with Your forgiveness.
• Thank you for taking control of my life,for being my guide and for my life in YOU.YOU are the BEST part of my everything.
• You are true to ur word!
• Thank you  jesus for the cross. I receive your healing in Jesus name.
• Thank you Lord for the hope I have in being justified by your blood.
• I’m thankful that I know you. I’m thankful for my family and that they know you. That our sins are forgiven and you live. We might not stop sinning but you keep living. It wasn’t for nothing that you died. I will take your forgiveness and grace knowing I don’t deserve it.
• I would thank you lord for giving grandpa the strength to give up smoking forever. You presence in him will serve us all.
• I am unworthy and yet you say I am worthy. I am unlovable and yet you have loved me with an everlasting love. Thank you Lord
• Thank you for the cross and always lifting me up especially when i feel down and lonely.thank you jesus
• Thank-you for giving your life on the Cross for my life my mothers life and my fathers soul
• To be so loved when i fail everyday is overwhealming
• I am thankful for the complete work of Christ!
• Thank you god for everything. Even the little things. Thank you for giving me this wonderful life. I love you.
• Thank you Lord for salavation, for your forgiveness, for your cross, for your healing and never ending love.
• Thank you Lord for keeping me alive and giving me enough to live
• Thank You for Your unending grace. THANK YOU FOR THE CROSS!!
• Thank you Lord for life, abundant life!
• Thank you for your unconditional love Lord Jesus
• Thank you for your unending love.
• Oh thank you Jesus! Forever thank you!
• Thank you that You’re always by my side even in the times of distress!
• Thank you Jesus that your blood has covered my sins and made me new.
• Thank You for YOUR peace
• Thank you Lord for considering me worth redeeming.   Thank you for continuing to work in me.
• That Jesus see’s the real me and still loves me
• Thank you that everything has already been done! I have nothing to do! Thanks for the beginning understanding to this true reality!
• Thank you Jesus for making it possible for me to spend time in eternity with you.
• Thank you Lord! You prepare the way for me, you shield me and I feel your  wonderful love
• Lord thank you for Your complete work on the cross. Thank you for the complete restoration and healing in my life.
• Thank you Jesus for your death on the cross set me free indeed.I love you Lord.
• Thank you for life and a wonderful family
• Thank you for your blood that covers me.
• Thank Jesus you have always been there. Thank You.
• Thank you Jesus for justifying my life and seeing me as somebody free of sin!
• I am thankful for the church community you have provided for us in Winnipeg.
• Thank You Lord for the cross. Thank You for healing me physically and emotionally. In You I am complete again.
• Thank you Jesus for accepting me as weak and flawed as I am.
• Thank you God for being my Father, who chastised me, healed me and lifted me up again
• Thank you for bearing my pain and my struggles with me. Help me continue to fight back temptations and walk more in the light. I am trying, stay with me.
• Thank you for my wonderful sister and brothers in Christ
• Thank you because although it was not easy…your love for me motivated you to go all the way
• Thank You for Your love, for I am not worthy of such grace.  Thank You.
• I thank Jesus for making a way for me and to give me the hope of an eternal place for me even though I am not worthy of it. I thank  Jesus for being the steady thing in my life that I can always count on in my times of struggle.
• Lord you have moved my heart and guided me to this place help me find that which allows me to fufill everything you have planned. Thank you!
• Thankful for God’s forgiveness regardless of our sin and his unconditional love.
• I thank you lord for a change on my life and my family. Free my brother from alcohol. My father’s health and our relationship. I am blessed
• I am so thankful for your amazing grace that no matter how much I fail, you never leave 
• Praise God, He has taken the sin of those who have hurt me and in turn Him! Now I have freedom to forgive them and to love them!
• For the complete redemption and not remembering my sins amy more.
• I thank you for everything that you have done for me,  everything you are doing for me and everything you are going to do for me. I thank you for dying on the cross for my sins. THANK YOU LORD!!!
• Thank you for your forgiveness. Thank you for your Love.
• Thank you lord for loving me so undoubtably when i dont even deserve it!.for taking care of me ,for my friends,my family,for bringing me to this amazing house of yours!.I LOVE YOU!
• Thank you for cleansing my sins so that i may one day meet you in heaven.
• Thank you for my wonderful wife, and the soon to be addition to our family!
• Thank you for giving us wisdom to know your plan for salvation
• Thank you for redemption. Because of You. I am free!
• Thank you Heavenly Father that You have sanctified me, that it is finished, it is done and that as I renew my mind and my heart in Your Word You have made me new, perfect and complete in You.
• I thank you, Jesus, for gently guiding me back again and again when I take a wrong turn and think my path is better
• We as a family are grateful for the blessing the Lord has provided to us throught the cross ( healing, physical and spiritual)
• Thank you Lord for all my blessings. Thank you for being my best friend and NEVER letting me down. Praise you Jesus
• Thank you  o lord for all that you placed on your son for me and all mankind. your new presence in my life provides peace for me and my family.
• O what love, thank you lord
• I am thanful for my family and my life
• Thank you for the cross and for your spirit. Thank you for the work that you have started in my life.
• Thanks for your salvation and grace and strenght
• God thank you for your Unconditional Love.
• Thank you Jesus for the blood you shed, that covers my family! To God be the Glory!
• Thank you for healing my knee
• Thank You for what You did for me on the cross
• Thank you for carrying me through. For giving me wisdom. For my continued strength. All because of YOU.
• I am thankful for my friends who have prayed and supported me. I am thankful for my home, my job, my daughter, my JESUS who fills me with hope, joy, peace, forgiveness.
• Thank god for dying for my sin
• If it wasn’t 4 the cross and my salivation and the spirt of The Lord guiding me then I would b on a path that wouldn’t b a pleasant 1
• Ur mercies r new every morning… I always have hope! Thankyou
• I thank you for taking people from me, so that I may know you fully
• Thank you for your sweet presence.
• Thank you for never giving up on me! And for answering prayers.
• Thank you for my family and the blessing of my son
• Thank You for Your unending grace
• Thank you lord for the gift of your son so that we may spend eternity with you
• Thank you Jesus for your redeeming grace in my life
• Thank you for the work you are doing in my son’s life
• Thank you for saving us and for giving us eternal life!
• Thank you for loving me despite the flaws…and all you are to us.
• I thank my Saviour for second chances and for an amazing family.
• Thank You Jesus for who You are.
• Thankful for a wonderful family and great friends. Thank you also for this great country.
• Thank You that You will bring us out of this dark, deep valley
• Thank you lord for consecration. I am saved
• Thank you Jesus for the wonderful family and friends I am constantly surrounded by
• Blessing  wisdom and grace to our beloved leaders and pastors
• I’m thankful to God for everyday protection in our lives and especially when my husband had a heart attack. Thank You Jesus for saving him!
• Thank you for taking all of our sins on yourself
• Although I have sinned I ask for your forgiveness lord god and Jesus.
• Thankyou for watching over me in dangerous countries and situations… Ur sacrifice means i will never be cut off
• Thank you for the real  freedom the cross offers
• I’m thankful for God’s love. I’m thankful for my family and I’m thankful for the [] family.
• Dear Jesus thank you for the cross:) because of you i am free:’-) i freely lay my life before you please take all that i am and be glorified please be gl
• Thank you god for listening to my prayers and healing my dad
• I thank the Lord for the answered prayer and complete healing of my son. Thank you for the peace of mind that encompasses all understanding and the safe and healthy delivery of my son.
• Thank you Father, that in every season of my life when others thought I was crazy , you brought new people into my life to help walk out the things and plan You’ve called me to. You are The Faithful One
• Thank you for the blessing of a wonderful career building  opportunity.
• Jesus thank you
• Thank You Jesus for your unconditional love and mercy for us. I love You!
• Thank you for restoring my parents relationship
• Thank-you Jesus I love you
• Thank God I dont have to save myself.
• Thank you for your faithfulness and for the strength you have given me through the STORMS.
• Thank you for cleansing of conscience, so I can serve you.
• Thank you for everything you did in my life
• I am thankful you know all truth. I am thankful you will protect my live from the lie of the enemy
• Thank you Jesus, for loving me. For loving us all and giving us life.. Forever more we will praise you.
• Thank you god for all the blessings that my family received and the continuous pouring of blessings..
• Thank you Jesus for the forgiveness of our sins and the assurance of eternal life after our earthly life. You are great Jesus
• Thank You Jesus for doing what no else could do and that You paid the ultimate price that no else could ever possibly pay!
• I want to thank God for his mercy, love, care, protection and goodness in my lyf.love you jesus
• Thank you God for treating my inequities as perfect and your everlasting love.
• Eternal life.
• Thank you Jesus for doing what none of us would be willing to do.
• I am thankful for all the blessings You have given me in my life. My God fearing husband, family and friends. You are amazing Lord!
• Thank you Lord for providing day care  in a Christ centered home! Am so grateful for the sweet relief
• Thank you for changing my life – I can’t imagine where I’d be without you!
• I may not be perfect but I thank you Lord because you are made perfect for me. Thank you Jesus
• Thank you Lord for the great sacrifice. You took my place.
• Thank you for healing my hurt heart..
• Thank you Lord for we are created in your likeness and your image that we are not an accident.
• I’m so great full for the blessings and delivery from my addictions and my healings thank you God for your gift of Jesus!
• Thank you Jesus.  Thank you for loving me.  Thank you for connecting me to God.
• Dear father, thanks for your death on the cross, thank you for wash our sin , thanks  you are the God
• Lord, you are the light in my darkness.
• Thank you for your provision in my life
• Thank u Jesus!
• Maraming salamat sa iyong patuloy na pagmamahal at pagpuno ng aming kakulangan. You are the only living and awesome God!
• Thank you for sweet baby Jesus!
• Thank you Jesus for taking the blame for all my sins. Thank you also for my great family.
• Dear Father, Thank You for your death for our sins.  Thank You that You have a perfect plan for us.  Thank You God!
• I receive His healing
• I am thankful for the work YOU  are doing in my family especially in my boys.
• dear father, thank you for putting your hand upon me, thank you for the happiness , thank you very much for the power of healing , thank you for everything you have done for me in my life. thank you father !
• Thank you God for protecting my family in the midst of a car accident and giving us peace when everything was over. You were in total control of the whole situation even though we were not. Thank you Jesus for loving us!!!
• LOVE

The scripture teaches us that this great agony which Jesus suffered will never have to be experienced by us.  He experienced this separation from God so that we would never have to.  When we accept Jesus into our life and allow ourselves to be conformed to His nature and His will, then Jesus says that He will never leave us nor forsake us. (Read Hebrews 13:5)  He says that nothing will separate us from His love. (See Romans 8:35-39)  This doesn’t mean that there won’t be struggles, frustrations, pains or irritations in our life.   But it does mean that we can sense the strength and love of God in the midst of all our situations.

Lord Jesus, forgive us for focusing more on the things around us than on You.  Forgive us for not cherishing our relationship with You above all else.  Help us to sense You near us at all times.

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parents

THIS WEEK (Grade 9-12)

WWJD – Blessed or Cursed
Does your life feel blessed or cursed? 
Come get a new perspective!!
Hangout in The Cage after small groups

Friday April 5, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

NEXT WEEK

OUT NIGHT! (Cost: $5)
WWJD (Love your Enemies?)
This week we will be doing small groups in different locations around the city.
Each small group will decide when they get to Threshold this night
where they want to do their small groups. We often have groups go to
places like a leaders house, Starbucks or Tim Horton’s to do their small group discussion.

The night will start and end at the regular time (7:11 p.m. –10:00 p.m.)
and the cost for this event is $5 a student.

Friday April 12, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: $5

THRESHOLD RETREAT

May 3-5
Cost: $120 (For those that fund-raised at PK the cost is only $50)
We are heading to Camp Arnes for an action packed weekend
full of fun, food, friends & growing in God!
DOWNLOAD REGISTRATION INFO HERE 

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

PARENT LINK

The Parent Link April Newsletter
Includes: Be Stewards of God’s Earth
Hope for a Broken World: Expert Insights for Parents of Teenager
Media Spotlights on: Justin Timberlake, Hillsong United and more…

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parents

THIS WEEK (Grade 9-12)

WWJD – Blessed or Cursed
Does your life feel blessed or cursed? 
Come get a new perspective!!
Hangout in The Cage after small groups

Friday April 5, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

NEXT WEEK

OUT NIGHT! (Cost: $5)
WWJD (Love your Enemies?)
This week we will be doing small groups in different locations around the city.
Each small group will decide when they get to Threshold this night
where they want to do their small groups. We often have groups go to
places like a leaders house, Starbucks or Tim Horton’s to do their small group discussion.

The night will start and end at the regular time (7:11 p.m. –10:00 p.m.)
and the cost for this event is $5 a student.

Friday April 12, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: $5

THRESHOLD RETREAT

May 3-5
Cost: $120 (For those that fund-raised at PK the cost is only $50)
We are heading to Camp Arnes for an action packed weekend
full of fun, food, friends & growing in God!
DOWNLOAD REGISTRATION INFO HERE 

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

YOUTUBE DISCUSSION

Video: http://goo.gl/crAuW  (CBS News site, not YouTube)

Bible:
Luke 6:31

Topic: 
The Golden Rule

Discussion Starter:
“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” You’ve probably heard that phrase most of your life. It’s affectionately known as The Golden Rule.

Sometimes we think that representing Jesus in our day-to-day lives has to be difficult or huge. As if it’s limited to feeding the homeless or going on a mission trip. In reality, we can do small things every day that let others know that God loves them.

3 Questions:

1. Have you ever received an act of kindness that surprised you?
2. Is it easier for you to give or receive?
3. What’s a small act of kindness you could do in the next 24 hours for someone else?

Chew on this:
If I’m supposed to practice The Golden Rule all the time, then why is it so much fun to think about getting revenge?

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parent

THIS WEEK

Dog Day
+ Pain & Struggles Part 3
Free Hot Dogs & other “dog themed” activities
Plus we finish our series on Pain & Struggles. 

Wednesday April 3, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock 
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

NEXT WEEK

Hockey Night At Threshold
+ 4 Things – Lying
Floor hockey in the gym (Optional)
Hangout/Cafe in The Cage for others
New series on 4 things that trip us up in life
starting with Lying 

Wednesday April 10, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock 
Cost: FREE

LAST WEEK

Last week we did not have small groups as we hung out and relaxed while watching the movie “Wreck It Ralph”.

THRESHOLD JR RETREAT

April 26-28
Cost: $120
(For those that fund-raised at PK the cost is only $50)
We are heading to Camp Arnes for an action packed weekend
full of fun, food, friends & growing in God!
DOWNLOAD REGISTRATION INFO HERE 

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

PARENT LINK

The Parent Link May Newsletter
Includes: Equip Kids For Making Choices
The Role of Emotions: Expert Insights for Parents of Teenager
Media Spotlights on:Snoop Lion, Andy Mineo and more…

PARENT HOME GROUP

While your child is in Threshold JR,
you are invited to participate in a Home Group
across the hall in Room A4.
We worship the Lord and study God’s Word.
We fellowship and pray together.
And we laugh together.

Time: Wednesday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.,
Contact Helen at 452-9767, or just come on over and join us.
You are welcome at anytime.

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parent

THIS WEEK (Grade 6-8)

Dog Day
+ Pain & Struggles Part 3
Free Hot Dogs & other “dog themed” activities
Plus we finish our series on Pain & Struggles. 

Wednesday April 3, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock 
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

NEXT WEEK

Hockey Night At Threshold
+ 4 Things – Lying
Floor hockey in the gym (Optional)
Hangout/Cafe in The Cage for others
New series on 4 things that trip us up in life
starting with Lying 

Wednesday April 10, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock 
Cost: FREE

THRESHOLD JR RETREAT

April 26-28
Cost: $120
(For those that fund-raised at PK the cost is only $50)
We are heading to Camp Arnes for an action packed weekend
full of fun, food, friends & growing in God!
DOWNLOAD REGISTRATION INFO HERE 

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

YOUTUBE DISCUSSION

Video: http://goo.gl/crAuW  (CBS News site, not YouTube)

Bible:
Luke 6:31

Topic: 
The Golden Rule

Discussion Starter:
“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” You’ve probably heard that phrase most of your life. It’s affectionately known as The Golden Rule.

Sometimes we think that representing Jesus in our day-to-day lives has to be difficult or huge. As if it’s limited to feeding the homeless or going on a mission trip. In reality, we can do small things every day that let others know that God loves them.

3 Questions:

1. Have you ever received an act of kindness that surprised you?
2. Is it easier for you to give or receive?
3. What’s a small act of kindness you could do in the next 24 hours for someone else?

Chew on this:
If I’m supposed to practice The Golden Rule all the time, then why is it so much fun to think about getting revenge?

As I read this account I can’t help but think: the children of Israel are rebellious; they make a golden calf; they worship false idols; Moses get angry with them and he has to do the hard work.  Why didn’t the Israelites have to cut out two new rock tablets, why did Moses need to do that?  Three principles are seen.

First we realize that anger always has consequences.  Even though Moses could have been justified in his mind, because of the waywardness of the Israelites, Moses was still  responsible for his own actions.  Moses got angry; Moses broke the tablets; Moses needed to cut out two new tablets.  God did not blame Moses’ actions on the wrongdoing of others.  We always have to answer for how we act even if provoked by others.

Secondly, notice how people are not isolated in their actions.  The Israelites could have said, “I am doing what I want, it doesn’t effect others, it only effects myself.”  But their action did affect others.  Their actions made more work for Moses.  If a great leader like Moses was affected by the inappropriate actions of others, how much could our improper action affect those around us; those who likely are not as strong in doing what is right as Moses was.

Thirdly, notice that something is always lost by sin, even when the sin is forgiven. The first tables were the “work of God”, the second were hewn by the hand of Moses.   Part of the original beauty of God’s work was lost.

Lord Jesus help us to respond rightly when we see evil around us.  Help us to control our anger and help us to influence those around us in godly ways.

I am not giving license for us to criticize others by saying, “They would understand it, if they wanted to obey it.”  Rather the challenge is, “are there areas of truth that I do not understand because I don’t fully choose to obey Him?”  Perhaps our unwillingness to submit completely to doing the will of the God keeps us from fully knowing the will and ways of God.

Lord Jesus, work so that we and others are more willing to obey You, so that we might know more of You.

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parents

THIS WEEK (Grade 9-12)

Threshold Cancelled March 29
There is no Threshold March 29 because of Good Friday
Join us for the Good Friday service at COTR at 10:30 a.m.

NEXT WEEK

WWJD – Blessed or Cursed
Does your life feel blessed or cursed? 
Come get a new perspective!!
Hangout in The Cage after small groups

Friday March 22, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

THRESHOLD RETREAT

May 3-5
Cost: $120 (For those that fund-raised at PK the cost is only $50)
We are heading to Camp Arnes for an action packed weekend
full of fun, food, friends & growing in God!
DOWNLOAD REGISTRATION INFO HERE 

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

PARENT LINK

CPYU Parent Page – March 2013
Includes: Social Media
Pre-Drinking
Obesity and Food Marketing and more…

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parents

THIS WEEK (Grade 9-12)

Threshold Cancelled March 29
There is no Threshold March 29 because of Good Friday
Join us for the Good Friday service at COTR at 10:30 a.m. 

NEXT WEEK

WWJD – Blessed or Cursed
Does your life feel blessed or cursed? 
Come get a new perspective!!
Hangout in The Cage after small groups

Friday March 22, 2013
7:11 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

THRESHOLD RETREAT

May 3-5
Cost: $120 (For those that fund-raised at PK the cost is only $50)
We are heading to Camp Arnes for an action packed weekend
full of fun, food, friends & growing in God!
DOWNLOAD REGISTRATION INFO HERE 

MONTHLY CALENDAR

Click here for this month’s calendar

YOUTUBE DISCUSSION

				.
				Connect:
Home	Calendar	Blog		Parent

THIS WEEK

Spring Break Movie Night
It’s spring break!
Come hang out in The Cage:
relax, eat some popcorn and watch a movie!

Wednesday March 27, 2013
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Church of the Rock 
Cost: FREE
(We do have a Cafe that offers food/drink for purchase)

NEXT WEEK

Dog Day
+ Pain & Struggles Part 3
Free Hot Dogs & other “dog themed” activities
Plus we finish our series on Pain & Struggles.