Well, we surely have been “Into the Wilderness” this week at Poplar Springs because that has been our theme for Vacation Bible School at which 53+ children and 35+ adults/youth have gathered around God’s Word! As we have so gathered, we have focused on God’s provision for the people of Israel wandering through the desert post-Exodus. We have watched God care for Elijah in his wilderness of discouragement and doubt. And we looked again at Jesus’ trip into the wilderness to be tested. At every junction of the biblical story the reality of our week’s memory verse came to light: “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged” (Deut. 31:8).
This is a great message for our children to hear and it is one that all of us take to heart as we approach the decisions, struggles, and twists that life brings our way. God’s provision of food, clothing, water, and commandments made it possible for Israel to deal with their disobedience and survive 40 years of wandering. God’s care for Elijah to have the sustenance he needed, a shade tree under which to rest, and a cave that sheltered him while he readied for the next phase of his ministry, made all the difference during discouraging days. Jesus’ approach to his 40 days of testing was to answer every word from Satan’s mouth with the words that came from God’s Word – he quoted scripture at every juncture of testing. Likewise, as we navigate the times of our lives where resources seem thin, or we doubt ourselves and worry about what’s coming next, or feel pulled away from honoring God with our decisions, we can count on the Lord’s provision. Yes, even in the wilderness “we need not be afraid or discouraged” because the Lord “will go before us and will always be with us!”
Thanks, Poplar Springs, for making Vacation Bible School possible for children, youth, and adults alike. We praise God for the many and various ways you all have volunteered and contributed to make it a great week in a fun environment decorated so well for the great outdoors!
Called Church Conference
As we move closer to the beginning of the ministry of Pastor Aaron Hinton on August 1, we will take the next step this Sunday, July 2, with a brief Called Church Conference as we begin our worship time together. The purpose of this church conference is to call out an Ordination Council in preparation for Aaron’s Ordination to the Gospel Ministry on Sunday, August 6.
Eatin’ Good in the Neighborhood…Fellowship Lunch!
We are looking forward to celebrating the Fourth of July this coming Sunday, July 2, with a barbeque lunch prepared by our great Poplar Springs chefs following worship. We will gather in the Family Life Center for lunch together this Sunday in a summertime expression of thanksgiving for our country!! We look forward to seeing you then!
In the Love of Jesus,
Tony Tench