What a Dark World Needs Most


“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden” — Matthew 5:14.
The world around us can often seem dark—dark with confusion, conflict, crime, and moral decay. But Jesus sent His followers as lights into that darkness. He didn’t say you should be the light; He said, “You are the light of the world”. That means wherever we go—in our homes, workplaces, schools, sports activities, shopping or communities--we manifest the glow of Christ when we care for, assist, serve or forgive others.
A small light can make a big difference. One candle can dispel the darkness of an entire room. Likewise, one Christian living faithfully can bring hope, clarity, and comfort to those around us who have lost their way. Remember—the intensity of our light depends on our connection to the true source--Jesus Christ. The closer we walk with Jesus, the brighter we shine.
Let each of us strive to reflect His light through kind words, honest living, and humble service. Let’s be the example that leads others to glorify our Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16). The world doesn’t need any more darkness—it needs more light. Let’s each make it our mission this week to be a light for Christ in 2025 and beyond!
Be a Light for Christ in 2025
Dennis

Thank God for Our Teachers!
 
Every week, our Bible class teachers prepare lessons, pray over their students, and sow seeds of God’s Word into hearts young and old. Sometimes their efforts may go unnoticed, but heaven surely sees.
 
When Jesus gave the Great Commission, He included teaching as part of discipleship: “...teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:20). Teaching God’s Word is not just a task—it’s a sacred trust. Every teacher in our congregation is helping to carry out that divine mission.
 
Think for a moment about those who first taught you about Jesus. Perhaps it was a parent, a friend, or a faithful Bible class teacher. Their patience, kindness, and dedication helped shape your faith and guide your spiritual growth. In the same way, our Bible school teachers today are influencing lives that will touch eternity.
 
Let’s take a moment this week to thank them. A kind word, a note, or a simple “thank you” can go a long way. Pray for our teachers—that they will be encouraged, strengthened, and blessed in their work. And may we each remember that in some way, we are all teachers—by our words, by our example, and by our lives.
 
“Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.” — Matthew 18:5
 
Be a Light for Christ in 2025!
 
Dennis

WHY THE CHURCH NEEDS YOU!
 
Every Christian has a vital place in the Lord’s body. The church is not a building made of stone or brick, but a living fellowship of believers redeemed by Christ’s blood. The apostle Paul described it beautifully when he said, “Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually” (1 Cor. 12:27).
 
Each of us has something unique to offer—some gift, ability, or word of encouragement that strengthens the whole. When one member withdraws, the entire body feels the loss. When one member rejoices, we all share in the blessing.
 
The church needs your presence, your prayers, your faith, your example, and your love. Someone sitting nearby may be silently struggling, yet drawing strength just from seeing you remain faithful. Another may be lifted by your kind word, your handshake, or your willingness to serve in a quiet way.
 
The Lord designed His church so that every part does its share (Eph. 4:16). When we work together in unity, God is glorified and His kingdom grows.
 
You are not an extra piece—you are an essential part of God’s plan. The church doesn’t simply want you; it needs you.
 
“Let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together…” —Heb. 10:24–25
 
Be a Light for Christ in 2025!
 
Dennis

BE ESSENTIAL
 
“But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased”
(1 Co 12:18).
 
A paraphrase of that scripture reads, “God has placed the members of His church, every single one of them, for a vital purpose that pleases Him.”
 
Speaking of the church that pleases God, Paul wrote, “…may grow up in all things into Him who is the head--Christ-- from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love...” (Eph 4:15-16).
 
Thus, God is pleased when individual Christians are:
·        Growing to be more like Christ.
·        Knit together – united.
·        Supplying (providing) whatever helps the church.
·        Doing its share – being active in the church.
 
When the members participate in this way to please God, the church grows. Every member has an essential role in this. As such, essential Christians exhibit four characteristics.
 
1)   Essential Christians are typically present at all church assemblies. Unless sick, they make it a point to never miss a service. Even though they may have to adjust schedules, suffer inconvenience or miss other activities, they do so because they are committed to helping the church please God.
 
2)   Essential Christians seek opportunities to serve. If something needs to be done - a class to be taught, a meal to prepare, sick or bereaved members that need comforting, or emergencies that require donations, etc., they help whenever possible.
 
3)   Essential Christians strive to be models of personal purity. Although not perfect, they strive to eliminate any and all appearances of evil in their lives (1 Thess. 5:22). Whether it involves the clothes they wear, the language they use, the places they go, or their personal habits, they try to set a Godly example.
 
4)   Essential Christians pray…a lot! They pray for the church, the children, the preacher, the teachers, the sick, the weak and the lost. They believe in the power of persistent prayer and are always grateful for God’s answers.
 
It is God’s will that every single member be essential to the spiritual health and wellbeing of His church. Does this describe you? If not, come back and be essential again.
 
Be a Light for Christ in 2025!
 
Dennis

​🌿 A Place for You


In Matthew 11:28, Jesus offers one of the most touching invitations in Scripture: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

What a simple, yet profound promise! Jesus doesn’t invite only the strong, the confident, or the perfect. He calls all who are weary, burdened, or searching for peace. That includes you and me.

On this Friends and Family Day, we are reminded that the Lord’s church is a spiritual family—where love, encouragement, and truth are shared freely. No matter who you are or what your past looks like, there is a place for you in God’s family.

As you worship with us today, may you feel the warmth of Christ's love and the joy of belonging. Most importantly, may you experience a deep sense of Jesus' loving invitation.

You are not here by accident. God’s providence has brought you to this moment. Our prayer is that you will leave feeling loved, appreciated, and (if you have not already obeyed the gospel), a faithful Christian.

“You are loved by God and welcomed by His people” (Romans 15:7)

Be a light for Christ in 2025! 

Dennis