Clean the slate, God, so we can start the day fresh! Keep me from stupid sins, from thinking I can take over your work; Then I can start this day sun-washed, scrubbed clean of the grime of sin. These are the words in my mouth; these are what I chew on and pray. Accept them when I place them on the morning altar, O God, my Altar-Rock, God, Priest-of-My-Altar. Psalms 19:13-14 (MSG)
God's presence was felt among the 44 men who trekked up the mountain to Donner Lake from Friday evening, April 9th, until Sunday afternoon. We worshipped in prayer, the Word, music and community around our theme verses for this year.
"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Hebrews 10:24-25
This was certainly a weekend of living out these verses as we came to a clearer understanding of God's message for us, our community and the world.
"A despairing man should have the devotion of his friends, even though he forsakes the fear of the Almighty. " Job 6:14
Sunday morning we're studying the book of Job during second hour, if you do not already have commitments during this time stop by and be encouraged by the discussion as we search to discover what Job needed from his friends in his time of deepest distress.
Last Sunday we explored Job's statement about a man needing the kindness of his friends, especially during this, the most difficult time in his life. Job had friends that went the extra mile to grieve (from the Latin to burden) with him. Job had friends who sat silently with him for SEVEN days and did not say a word because words could not comfort; friends who knew that only their presence could offer any solice. Friends that knew how to be a better friend than I.
Yet, when they did begin the speak, Job had to rebuke his friends for trying to fix him.
What kind of friend am I?
It's never too late to drop by and check out our study, and it's a great time of discussion in a smaller, focused environment. Stop on by.
Registration for this springs retreat has begun. Please obtain a form from the table in the back of the sanctuary and turn in to the man at the table with your deposit or full payment.
We need a solid headcount as soon as possible to secure our lodging at Donner Lake. I will reserve our housing by the end of January and we must pay in full for lodging by the end of February. So we're working to get all signups completed and collect all funds by that date.
If you have questions of any kind please do not hestiate to talk to Dave Worth. This includes payment plans to fit your budget, scholarships or a desire to sponsor a man for the retreat.
Just after our Saturday morning session at the retreat there will be a "special event." Details will unfold as it draws nearer retreat time but for now all I can say is "may the best house win!"
Men, Believe it or not the initial planning for the ASC spring '10 retreat is underway.
The retreat dates are 7:30pm Friday April 9th thru 1pm April 11th. This is the weekend AFTER EASTER. The venue will once again be houses at Donner Lake.
This is your chance to get involved! The Lord has called each of us to service as part fo the body. A body requires all of it's parts to function in the way they were called to be in top shape.
Please pray about what place God has for you in the body. Don't be afraid to step out and let the Lord lead. He didn't promise you won't go through scary places, He promised He'd always be there with you. Besides, if we could do it on our own we wouldn't need Him.
I am gathering a small team of men in lead in various areas of hosting the retreat. Each will be a leader for their area and together we'll have another awesome retreat.
Some areas in which I need leaders: Financial - simple tracking of monies in (retreat payment, donations for scholarships), simple tracking of monies out (lodging and food expenses), tracking of payment/scholarship status.
Advertizing - someone enthused about getting the word out in various ways and making the need know that donations for scholarships are needed.
Signups - someone to take charge of ensuring men are informed of signup and payment plans, car pool options, etc.
Miscellaneous setup/assistance - catch-all position meaning you help with last minute details like moving chairs.
Food prep - Joe Juarez as graciously volunteered to head this us again this year, but needs helpers.
Teachers - If you feel God has called you to teach or develop your gift of teaching, talk to me.
Worship in Music - Jeff has volunteered to head this up but would like to assemble a small teach of musically inclined.
Pray for us as a team as we come together over these next few months and pray on your behalf for the Lord to work mightly in all of us.
