​A Few Reasons to Thank God...

Despite the worldwide ramifications of the pandemic, the uncertainty surrounding the recent election, and other day-to-day issues, there is a great deal to thank God these days. Below are 5 examples.

1. Our salvation. Romans 8:1 assures us that, "There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus..." Knowing that we possess an eternal home with God, Christ, and countless saints is our greatest blessing. Since nothing (covid-19 included) can separate us from the love of God - Romans 8:39, we should be especially thankful.

2. Our families. Although many families have been negatively impacted by covid-19, the majority of us still have our families intact and healthy. That is a blessing that is hard to beat!

3. Our church family. Although our Sunday School classes are not meeting, most of our of other services continue. Worshipping and studying with beloved brothers and sisters in Christ is a tremendous blessing.

4. Frontline workers. Thank God for the paramedics, nurses, doctors, personal support workers, and others that continue to put everything on the line to help us and protect our health.

5. The internet. Although not everything on the internet is true or Godly, what would we do without it? We communicate, shop, stay informed, look up information, receive education and much more via the World Wide Web. Many are able to work at home via the internet.

The aforementioned things barely scratch the surface of our blessings. Whatever you do during these trying days, make certain to thank God!

Jesus, always Jesus! 

Dennis

Tribute to Bible Class Teachers  

“And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and TEACHERS,  for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ…” (Eph. 4:11-12)
Beatitudes for Bible Class Teachers
   
Blessed are the Bible Class teachers -
Who reveal Jesus and His word to children,
For they will be called, “Teachers of God.”

Blessed are the Bible Class teachers -
Who help, hug and hold our children,
For they will be embraced by God forever.

Blessed are the Bible Class teachers -
Who endure talkative children and screaming infants,
For God sees their struggles and hears their prayers.

Blessed are the Bible Class teachers -
Who laugh and draw and play with children in class,
For they will be forever young in heaven.

Blessed are the Bible Class teachers -
Who patiently listen to the queries of children,
For God will one day answer all of their questions.

Blessed are the Bible Class teachers -
Who teach our children to sing and pray and give,
For they will sing around God’s throne forever.

Blessed are the Bible Class teachers -
Who continually ask God for strength, wisdom and patience,
For He will grant them all three, and much more!

Blessed are the Bible Class teachers -
Who lead our children to accept and obey Jesus Christ,
For they will be with these children in heaven.  

Bible Class teachers are crucial to the spiritual welfare of the church. Even though we have been unable to offer many Bible classes lately, take time to thank your teacher, or that of your child.

Jesus, always Jesus!

Dennis

FINAL INSPECTION  
(This adaptation of a well-known poem is dedicated to all veterans, living and dead.)  
   
The soldier stood at attention, facing his God at last,  
He hoped his shoes were shining as brightly as his brass.  
“Step forward now young soldier; how shall I deal with you?  
Although you were a Christian; to Me have you been true?"  
   
The soldier bowed his head and spoke, "Lord, I guess I ain't.  
Those of us that carried guns, rarely looked like saints.  
I've had to fight on Sundays; at times my dress was rough.  
I've aimed my gun at other men; war is mighty tough.  
   
But I never took a penny, that wasn't mine to keep.  
I volunteered for overtime, when bills became too steep.  
I never left a helpless child that shook or cried from fear.  
And sometimes when I held them, I shed unmanly tears.  
   
I know I am unworthy of any house up there;  
Many folks deserve it more, and that is only fair.  
But if you've got a room for me, it needn't be so grand.  
I'll take anything that’s left; but if not I'll understand.”  
   
There was a silence all around the throne, where angels often trod.  
While the soldier waited nervously for the judgment of his God.  
“March straight in, young soldier, you've borne your cross so well.  
Now live in peace on golden streets, you’re forever done with hell.”  
   
************************************************************  
   
“Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.” (Matt. 25:21)
   
Jesus, always Jesus!  
   
Dennis

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