To God's Beloved At Cloverdale Baptist Church:
We are in our Christmas season, and what a privilege to have the opportunity to share with people why we love this season. We are those who are overwhelmed by God's love, and rejoice together in being a part of His plan to reach others. Was reminded as someone in our community thanked me for praying for them, of the need to be ready to invite people into our celebrations where Jesus will be on display. I missed this opportunity to take the next step with this precious neighbour, and hope and pray for another.
Reminder as we embrace this season that:
1. Sunday School is canceled, until January 14. Please take note of this, and join us for connection cafe at 10:00 am on Sunday's, and regular service time at 10:30.
2. Christmas Eve Services: We will be having 2 services on Christmas Eve, our regular service at 10:30 am, as well as our evening service at 5:00 pm. We promise to do our best to keep the evening service to 1 hr as we celebrate the love of Jesus and share WHY JESUS CAME, in His being sent in love by His Father.
3. God has a plan for you to impact the people He has placed around you. He has made you and placed you, if you are His exactly where you need to be to help others to see how amazing He is. Take the time to prayerfully get ready to make a difference this year! Memorize Ephesians 2:10, and walk in them...
4. The church office will be closed from December 26-29. If you need a pastor during this time, please don't hesitate to send us an email and we will seek to serve you.
What In The World Is God Doing?
You may have seen that Israel is in the news again. This is a reminder for us to be praying for Israel, and for peace in that region. Israel's history dates back to Abraham and Genesis, and God has a plan for this nation and people that will stretch into the Millennial Kingdom. We can be a part of this plan, through sharing the Gospel and praying. Please pray for Israel this week, that many there would turn to Jesus and follow Him, both Jews and Palestinians, and all impacted by what goes on in the world there would see and hear of the love of God's people for the others. We believe God has a plan for these precious people and this nation, and our prayers for all involved help us to join in God's plan for what is coming.
Sunday Is Coming:
Our focus this year during the Christmas season is on why Jesus came. Please mediate on the text and prayerfully prepare your heart to receive God's Word, and look for those to actively welcome and love as many new people join us, especially at this time of year.
Title: Why Did Jesus Come? To Bring A Sword
Text: Mark 10:34-36
Why is it important to understand why Jesus came?
Why does Jesus demand to be our ultimate and first priority lead to division?
How have you felt the rejection of those who reject Jesus?
What does it mean to take up our cross and follow Jesus?
How does the abundant life Jesus promised (John 10:10), the coming of the Prince Of Peace, and this promised conflict work themselves out together?
How can we make sure that our belief in Jesus is not clouded by cultural conformity?
Have a great week, as you seek the face of Jesus, and long to glorify His name,
Privileged to serve Him and you,
Pastor Rob