A New Year's Plan

A NEW YEAR"S PLAN

 

I tried to think of a clever new phrase—
A slogan to inspire the next 365 days,

A motto to live by this coming new year,
But the catchy words fell flat to my ear.

 

And then I heard His still small voice
Saying, "Consider this simple, daily choice:

With each new dawn and close of day
Make new your resolve to trust and obey."

 

"Don't look back caught in regret
Or dwell on the sorrow of dreams unmet;

Don't stare forward anchored by fear,
No, live in this moment, for I am here."

 

"I am all you need. Everything. I Am.
You are held secure by my strong hand.

Give me this one thing—your all in all;
Into my grace, let yourself fall."

 

So, at last I'm ready; I see the way.
It's to daily follow, trust, and obey.

I enter the new year armed with a plan,
To give him my everything. All that I am.

--Mary Fairchild

5th Sunday Night Sing

This Sunday night will be a 5th Sunday Night Sing.  You are welcome and encouraged to share a song, talent, testimony or favorite Scripture.  This is also the end of 2012 and a great time for reflecting on God's goodness and blessings through the year.  What a perfect opportunity to share what the Lord has done in your life and what you are looking forward to in 2013.

 

Following the sing, there will be a time of refreshments and fellowship together.  Hope you will plan to come and also share!

Beautiful!!

I Corinthians 13 - Christmas Version

If I decorate my house perfectly with plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights and shiny balls, but do not show love to my family, I’m just another decorator.

If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime, but do not show love to my family, I’m just another cook.

If I work at the soup kitchen, carol in the nursing home and give all that I have to charity, but do not show love to my family, it profits me nothing.

If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties and sing in the choir’s cantata but do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point.

Love stops the cooking to hug the child. Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband. Love is kind, though harried and tired. Love doesn’t envy another’s home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.

Love doesn’t yell at the kids to get out of the way, but is thankful they are there to be in the way. Love doesn’t give only to those who are able to give in return but rejoices in giving to those who can’t.

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. Video games will break, pearl necklaces will be lost, golf clubs will rust, but giving the gift of love will endure.

Merry Christmas and lots of love to you and yours!

Children’s Christmas Play

The children of Antioch presented “I Didn’t Think It Would Happen Like This” – and shared the true meaning of Christmas.  They did a fantastic job and we appreciate their hard work.  So many others helped in a variety of ways and our deepest appreciation goes to each one who had a part in bringing this program to a fabulous conclusion!  Here are a few scenes of the night:

Church wide Christmas Caroling

Tomorrow (Wednesday) night will be our annual Church wide Christmas caroling!  We will leave the church at 5:30 to visit the local  nursing home and the homes of some of our church family who are home bound to spread some Christmas cheer and joy!  Following the caroling, we will meet back at the church for some soup, sandwiches and fellowship.  Hope you and your family will take part in celebrating and sharing the blessing of Christmas!

A Christmas Prayer

In the midst of the tragedy we face in our world today, here is a prayer to the God of Hope by Max Lucado:

 

Dear Jesus,

It’s a good thing you were born at night. This world sure seems dark. I have a good eye for silver linings. But they seem dimmer lately.

 

These killings, Lord. These children, Lord. Innocence violated. Raw evil demonstrated.

The whole world seems on edge. Trigger-happy. Ticked off. We hear threats of chemical weapons and nuclear bombs. Are we one button-push away from annihilation?

 

Your world seems a bit darker this Christmas. But you were born in the dark, right? You came at night. The shepherds were night shift workers. The Wise Men followed a star. Your first cries were heard in the shadows. To see your face, Mary and Joseph needed a candle flame. It was dark. Dark with Herod’s jealousy. Dark with Roman oppression. Dark with poverty. Dark with violence.

 

Herod went on a rampage, killing babies. Joseph took you and your mom into Egypt. You were an immigrant before you were a Nazarene.

 

Oh, Lord Jesus, you entered the dark world of your day. Won’t you enter ours? We are weary of bloodshed. We, like the wise men, are looking for a star. We, like the shepherds, are kneeling at a manger.

 

This Christmas, we ask you, heal us, help us, be born anew in us.

 

Hopefully,

Your Children

Come, and Bring a Gift

Don't forget about our church Christmas banquet Friday night at 6:30 PM.  This year instead of exchanging gifts, you are asked to bring an unwrapped gift to share with children undergoing unfortunate circumstances.   Through the local Guardian Ad Litem Program, children who may have been displaced from their homes and in need of clothes and/or other needs.  Here are some ideas to bring to share:

 

Children's ages are infants to 17 years old

musical toys for infants

diapers for infants

pull ups for toddlers

baby shampoo or soap

soft fleece blankets

toys for boys and girls

paint by number kits

arts and craft kits

 

Thank you for sharing and giving this season!

Deacon Ordination

A very special service was held on Sunday evening as 4 men were ordained as deacons at Antioch.  This service was sacred as we read what God’s Word says about men serving as deacons and a vow was spoken by these men to serve the Lord and His church.  Here are some photos of the special service.

Deacon Ordination

Sunday  night will be a special service as 4 men from our church will be ordained as deacons.  This is a sacred time as these men pledge to dedicate themselves to live a life above reproach and serve the Lord and His church in this office.

 

Please plan to attend this special service at 6:00 PM Sunday as we show our appreciation and support for these men and their families.

Christmas Funny

It was the day after Christmas and Pastor Mike was looking at the nativity scene outside when he noticed the baby Jesus was missing from the figures.

Immediately, he thought to call the police. But as he was about to do so, he saw little Jimmy with a red wagon, and in the wagon was the figure of the little infant Jesus.

Pastor Mike walked up to Jimmy and said, "Well, Jimmy, where did you get the little infant?"

Jimmy replied, "I got him from the church."

"And why did you take him?"

With a sheepish smile, Jimmy said, "Well, about a week before Christmas I prayed to little Lord Jesus. I told him if he would bring me a red wagon for Christmas, I would give him a ride around the block in it."

God's Word

God's word is-

1. Supernatural in origin;
2. Eternal in duration;
3. Inexpressible in valour;
4. Infinite in scope;
5. Regenerative in power;
6. Infallible in authority;
7. Universal in application;
8. Inspired in totality.

Read it through, write it down; pray it in; work it out; pass it on.
The word of God changes a man until he becomes an Epistle of God.

Smith Wigglesworth

Christmas Banquet

 

It's that time again...time for Antioch's annual Christmas party!  If you have attended this event in the past, you know it is fantastic!  Loads of fun, fellowship and Christmas cheer.  This year's party will be  held December 14 at 6:30 PM in the church fellowship hall.  The meal is covered dish and there will be a sign up sheet at church on Sunday.   Hope you will make plans to attend!

Adopt a Family

This Christmas, our youth group is 'adopting' a boy and a girl from families who are struggling financially and are looking for some help during this season.  There is a list of items needed along with sizes etc. that Liz H. has available if your family would like take part in meeting this need.  Contributions are also welcome to help purchase some items.  Please see Liz for more information.

December Dates

 

 

December is fast approaching and will be a busy time of the year for most of us.   There are many activities going on at Antioch also through this month and although most of us cannot make everything, be encouraged to take part if church family fellowships as you are able so that the bonds of Christian love are knitted tightly together as we celebrate God's gift to us...Jesus.

 

Here is a list of dates in December.  More details will be shared as the event comes closer, but please mark the dates in your calendar.

December 7 ~ Youth Christmas Party

December 14 ~ Church wide Christmas Party

December 15 ~ Children’s Dress Rehearsal and Party

December 16 ~ Christmas Cantata (AM service) and Children’s Christmas Play (PM service)

December 19 ~ Church wide caroling

December 30 ~ 5th Sunday Night Sing

 

 

An Old Fashioned, Spiritual Christmas

Thanksgiving has came and gone and is a now cherished memory in our hearts.  Christmas is still a few weeks away, but the rush of activities has began.  Here is an interesting quote on Advent.  What a fantastic time to be still as we await the joy and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.

"What has happened to the old-fashioned, spiritual Christmas? The cause is our disregard of Advent. The church set aside this four-week pre-Christmas season as a time of spiritual preparation for Christ’s coming. It is a time of quiet anticipation. If Christ is going to come again into our hearts, there must be repentance. Without repentance, our hearts will be so full of worldly things that there will be ‘no room in the inn’ for Christ to be born again.…We have the joy not of celebration. Which is the joy of Christmas, but the joy of anticipation."

Thanksgiving - Giving

Our church collected enough food to provide Thanksgiving meals and some staples for 6 families!  Thank you for your generosity and giving.  A day was set aside for these families to pick up the food.  Our youth were involved in assisting getting the food out.  Thank you, youth, for your service.  We were all reminded of God’s blessings and thankful for the opportunity to share with others.

Prayer Meeting TONIGHT!

Due to the Thanksgiving holiday this week, our prayer meeting will be tonight (Tuesday) instead of the usual Wednesday night.  Youth class will also be meeting tonight at 7:00 PM.  Even though this is a busy week, may we take some time out to praise and thank the Lord for all His blessings.

"Come, ye thankful people come'!

Shoeboxes Due Sunday

If you are packing a shoebox for Operation Christmas Child, please bring it to church on Sunday.  There will be a time of prayer and dedication for the boxes before they are sent.  If you need more information about Operation Christmas Child, visit Samaritan's Purse.

The 'One Another' Instructions

Have you noticed the 'one another' instructions in God's Word?  The New Testament writers often used that term is such ways as 'love one another', 'serve one another', 'encourage one another' and 'pray for one another'.  Maybe they were on to something...one of people's greatest needs - relationships.  And the church is the best place to offer them.

 

At its core, the church is about relationships.  First with God through His Son, Jesus Christ; second with one another - fellow believers as we live and do life together.  God intended for His people - the church to function together.

 

Although this is a busy time of year for all of us, may we be encouragted to take part in the many church activities and fellowships which are coming up.  As we combine fellowship meals like the Thanksgivng lunch with mission minded opportunities such as the Thanksgiving baskets we form and build bonds within the church family and reach out to help meet needs and share God's love with those in our community.  There is a children's Christmas play where we can enjoy our 'little angels' together and also as a family participate in the church Christmas caroling.  Let's try to build our church relationships and be a blessing to one another and those around us.

 

"Our society is set up for isolation. We wear earbuds whenwe exercise.

We communicate via e-mail and text messages.

We enter and exit our houses with gates and garage-door openers.

Our mantra: “I leave you alone. You leave me alone.”

Yet God wants his people to be an exception."

—Max Lucado

Church Thanksgiving Lunch

Every year at Thanksgiving Antioch has a tradition of enjoying a meal together as a church family and spend some time reflecting on God's blessings and provisions.  The church Thanksgiving meal will be this Sunday immediately following the morning service.  The meal will be traditional Thanksgiving (ham, turkey) and the meat will be provided.  Church family is asked to be bring a complimentary dish - bread, vegetable, dessert. 

 

Hope you will make plans to stay and enjoy this special time together.

Operation Christmas Child Workers Lunch

Our local collection site for Operation Christmas Child is Suwannee Station Baptist Church.  They will be spending many hours this week, processing shoe boxes and moving them on their way to their destinations.  Many volunteers will be working hard all week packing boxes to ship.  Local churches will be providing lunch for these workers.

 

On Friday, Antioch will provide the lunch for the workers.  The menu will be spaghetti, green beans, salad and dessert.  If you would like to provide a food dish, please see Pam G.  Food will need to be at the church by 11:00 AM on Friday.  Volunteers are also welcome to help deliver the food. 

Operation Christmas Child Ideas

This is the week to be preparing Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes.  Boxes should be turned in Sunday November 18 to be delivered to the local collection site.  Here are some ideas to pack the boxes:

Operation Christmas Child Ideas for Boxes

These Operation Christmas Child ideas for boxes are going to work for either gender and most ages.

1. Hard candy, gum (Please remember to double bag all candy!)
2. Pencils, colored pencils, and sharpener
3. Erasers
4. Pencil case
5. Crayons
6. Pens
7. A personal letter and photo (Find tips for writing a letter HERE.)
8. About Me page (Free coloring printables for younger children are HERE.)
9. Ruler
10. Glue stick
11. Safety scissors
12. Coloring book
13. Markers
14. Notepads
15. Stickers
16. Self-inking stamp
17. Tennis shoes
18. Socks
19. Water shoes
20. Flip flops
21. Hand held toys
22. Plush small animals
23. Balls: Tennis balls, bouncy balls, Wiffle balls
24. Jigsaw puzzle
25. Finger puppets
26. Silly Putty
27. Silly Bands
28. Sunglasses
29. Scarves
30. Bandanas
31. Gloves
32. Small flannel throw (Roll it up! It will fit!)
33. Necklace
34. Watch
35. Hat
36. Shoelaces
37. Bean bag
38. Hacky sack
39. Small dry erase board and markers
40. Teddy bear
41. Unopened Happy Meal toy
42. Toy binoculars
43. Inflatable balls
44. Legos
45. Solar-powered flashlight
46. Harmonicas
47. Recorder
48. Tambourine
49. Jump rope
50. Paddle ball
51. Yo yo’s
52. Handheld Etch A Sketch
53. Small board books
54. Slinky
55. Flash cards
56. Miniature checkerboard and checkers
57. T-shirts
58. Plastic poncho in packet
59. Drawstring bag
60. Balloons
61. Crafting kit (beads, etc)
62. Toy toolkit set (Thanks, Jenia!)
63. Plastic eating utensils
64. Sippy cup/cup with a lid

Grooming and Hygiene Items for Christmas Shoeboxes

These grooming and hygiene items for Christmas shoeboxes are always welcomed by the children and their families.
65. Comb
66. Brush
67 Dental floss
68. Mild soap (Please put in plastic bag or travel container.)
69. Toothpaste (This too! Be sure it’s in a plastic bag.)
70. Toothbrush
71. Colorful bandages
72. Hand wipes
73. Small pack colorful tissues
74. Lip balm
75. Emery board/nail clippers

Don’t forget your Operation Christmas Child Shoebox labels HERE!

Operation Christmas Child Ideas for Girls

These are some Operation Christmas Child ideas for girls, if you are packing a girl box.
76. Package of multi-colored Sharpies (Thanks, Rachel!)
77. Travel sewing kit (10-14 girl)
78. Fat Quarter bundles (10-14 girl) (Thanks, Stephani!)
79. Hair ribbons
80. Ponytail holders
81. Barrettes
82. Small pots/pans with spatula
83. Bangle bracelets
84. Clip-on earrings
85. Doll
86. Pom poms (like the ones used at football games)
87. Purse
88. Hand mirror (unbreakable)

Operation Christmas Child Box Ideas for Boys

Below are some more tips for Operation Christmas Child box ideas for boys.
89. Ball cap
90. Soccer ball with pump
91. Cars
92. Trucks
93. Kazoos
94. Compass
95. Hammer (10-14 boy, must be in original packaging) (Thanks, Jennifer!)
96. Nails (10-14 boy, must be in original packaging + zipper bag)
97. Screwdriver (10-14 boy, must be in original packaging)
98. Screws (10-14 boy, must be in original packaging + zipper bag)
99. LED keychain (10-14 boy)
100. Duct tape (10-14 boy)
101. Tape measure (10-14 boy)

Found at Faithful Provisions

Ladies Bible Study

A ladies Bible study is beginning on November 13.  This will be a 4 week study based on Max Lucado's Outlive Your Life Bible Study.

 

In Outlive Your Life Bible Study, Max Lucado encourages you to change the world around you by getting off your knees, rolling up your sleeves, and performing works God has created you to do. His inspiring call will prompt you to spread God's love as you learn more about ministering to your neighbors.

 

The early church in Acts left a blueprint of how to do it. The halls of history ring with their stories. Discover how a group of ragtag nobodies turned the world upside down, and begin to believe that God wants to do it all over again.

 

We will be meeting in different homes throughout the series.  This is a fantastic opportunity for a deeper walk with the Lord along with joining with other ladies as we seek to be all God has created us to be.  Ladies, be encouraged to participate, you will be blessed and in turn become a greater blessing to those around you as you make an impact that only you can make.  The study guide will cost $5.00.  Please see Kathy B. for more information.

Vote Today!!

“You [the voter] have especially to guard yourselves. You have the highest of human trust committed to your care. Providence has showered on this favored land blessings without number and has chosen you as the guardian of freedom to preserve it for the benefit of the human race. May He who holds in his hands the destinies of nations make you worthy of the favors He has bestowed and enable you, with pure hearts and pure hands and sleepless vigilance, to guard and defend to to the end of time the great charge he has committed to your keeping.”
— Andrew Jackson (1767-1845) 7th President of the United States

“Let each citizen remember at the moment he is offering his vote that he is not making a present or a compliment to please an individual--or at least that he ought not so to do; but that he is executing one of the most solemn trusts in human society for which he is accountable to God and his country.”
— Samuel Adams (1722–1803) Father of the American Revolution, Patriot and Statesman

“A good moral character is the first essential in a man ...”— George Washington (1732-1799) Father of the Country, 1st President of the United States

"In selecting men for office, let principle be your guide. Regard not the particular sect or denomination of the candidate—look to his character as a man of known principle, of tried integrity, and undoubted ability for the office..."  Noah Webster (1758-1843) Father of the Dictionary & American Patriot

Thanksgiving Baskets

 

This year as we approach the season of Thanksgiving, we will be collecting food to put in a basket to share with those in need in our local community.  Five families will receive food baskets from Antioch with food for a traditional Thanksgiving meal along with some staples to help keep them with food.  We are partnering with Love In the Name of Christ who has verified that these families are indeed in need and upon receiving the basket, the families will attend a church service where Christ and His love will be shared. 

 

Sign up sheets will be at church on Wednesday night to assure the baskets are filled with needed items.  If you have any questions, please see Joyce F. or Liz H.

 

May God bless you as you share and give in His name.

Scriptures to Pray for Our Election Part II

Pray that the Lord would defeat those who have no regard for Him in this election.

Psalms 86:14-17-

O God, the proud have risen against me,
And a mob of violent men have sought my life,
And have not set You before them.
¹⁵ But You, O Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious,
Longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth.

¹⁶ Oh, turn to me, and have mercy on me!
Give Your strength to Your servant,
And save the son of Your maidservant.
¹⁷ Show me a sign for good,
That those who hate me may see it and be ashamed,
Because You, Lord, have helped me and comforted me.

 

Pray that the Lord would put His hands on the man of His choice for president (and his team) and guide them in this election.

II Kings 13:16  Then he said to the king of Israel, “Put your hand on the bow.” So he put his hand on it, and Elisha put his hands on the king’s hands.

 

Pray that God's man and our nation will be discerning and do what is right.

Luke 12:54-57-

Then He also said to the multitudes, “Whenever you see a cloud rising out of the west, immediately you say, ‘A shower is coming’; and so it is. ⁵⁵ And when you see the south wind blow, you say, ‘There will be hot weather’; and there is. ⁵⁶ Hypocrites! You can discern the face of the sky and of the earth, but how is it you do not discern this time?

⁵⁷ “Yes, and why, even of yourselves, do you not judge what is right?

Scriture Prayers for Our Election - Part 1

This is an important week for our nation as voters choose a president.  It is critical that Christians pray for this election.  The power of prayer can overcome any obstacle or ungodly influence and do great things for God's glory.  Here are some Scriptures to pray for this week:

II Chronicles 7:14  ^"if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land."

Pray for repentance for ourselves and our nation.
Acts 17:30  Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent,

Pray that Christians will be motivated to pray faithfully for this election and that the Lord would deliver us from the wrong leaders.
Psalms 32:6-7  For this cause everyone who is godly shall pray to You In a time when You may be found; Surely in a flood of great waters They shall not come near him. You are my hiding place; You shall preserve me from trouble; You shall surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah

Pray that our nation will listen to the truth and not be led astray.
Proverbs 16:13 Righteous lips are the delight of kings, And they love him who speaks what is right.

Pray that those who trust in the Lord will not be shaken.
Psalms 125
 Those who trust in the Lord
Are like Mount Zion,
Which cannot be moved, but abides forever.
² As the mountains surround Jerusalem,
So the Lord surrounds His people
From this time forth and forever.

³ For the scepter of wickedness shall not rest
On the land allotted to the righteous,
Lest the righteous reach out their hands to iniquity.

⁴ Do good, O Lord, to those who are good,

⁵ As for such as turn aside to their crooked ways,
The Lord shall lead them away
With the workers of iniquity.

 

Watch for part II later this week.

Thanksgiving Funnies

Can a turkey jump higher than the Empire State Building?
Yes. A building can't jump at all.

What did the turkey say to the turkey hunter?

"Quack, Quack, Quack"

What's blue and covered with feathers?

A turkey holding its breath

If the Pilgrims were alive today what would they be most famous for? Their age!

Association Wide Brotherhood

Tuesday night there will be an association wide brotherhood meeting at Suwannee Station.  A meal will begin at 6:30 PM followed by the program.  Special speaker is Wailon Haston, Associate Pastor of First Baptist of Starke. 

 

All men are welcome and encouraged to come out for a great time of fellowship and building one another up.

Please Pray

Received in an email:

I have a prayer request. There's a lady I've known forever. She's very sick. On top of that, she's being abused by those to whom she has given everything.....Lies about her abound, and seem to come from all sides. Just breaks my heart. Seems there's nothing I can do alone but maybe, if we join in and lift her up together, we can heal her. She's well over 230 years old, but way too young to die. Her name is 'America'... And I love her and have always been proud of her. Please take time to say a prayer for her - even if it is a short, simple prayer like, "Lord, please heal our land. Amen." Thanks! Requesting 40 days of prayer for our country, beginning September 28, 2012 and through election day! "If my people, who are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." (2 Chronicles 7:14) REMEMBER 40 DAYS OF PRAYER BEFORE THE ELECTION --- IT STARTS SEPTEMBER 28, 2012!

161st Homecoming

Next Sunday is our 161st Homecoming!  Special plans are in place to make it a day filled with the warm presence of friends and a time of reflection on God's goodness and grace. 

 

Special guests include the Lighthouse Children's Choir who will share the message of God’s love and hope through song and testimony.  This choir consists of girls who currently live at The Lighthouse Children’s Home and whose lives were touched and changed by the wholesome Christian environment designed so that young women in crisis circumstances can meet Jesus and allow Him to totally transform them. 

Rev. James Croft will be the special speaker in the 11:00 AM service. Rev Croft has what some pastors have called a unique evangelistic ministry in that he is only 3'10" tall. His size attracts the attention of adults, youth and children, allowing him the opportunity to share the Gospel. He has preached revivals and youth services in north Florida, South Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina and South Carolina. He has also conducted crusades, church leader’s conferences and Vacation Bible Schools in Ghana, West Africa for the past three years.

 

Following the morning service there will be a meal in the fellowship hall.  Church family is asked to bring extra food to share with our guests. 

 

Services will begin at 9:45 AM in the sanctuary with a time of singing and enjoying the Lighthouse Children's Choir, worship will begin at 11:00 AM with Rev. Croft.  There will be no Sunday School or evening services. 

Prayer Requests

There are several prayer requests to share this week:

 

• Helen S. took a fall and broke her arm and cracked her pelvis
• Caroline's dad is having some serious eye issues
• Sam C. is awaiting some test results
• Ryan W. is undergoing intense testing at the Mayo Clinic this week
• A niece of the Howell family will undergo surgery for breast cancer today

 

Please be mindful of these and many others on the back of our bulletins.  We serve a God who hears and answers prayers!!

Church Workday

Saturday beginning at 8:00 AM, there will be a church workday to help prepare for Homecoming which is Sunday October 14.  All are welcome to come and join us!

Familyl Meal This Week

This Wednesday will be our Family Meal.  A great time is always had by those who gather around the table for food and fellowship.  Our church family bonds are strengthened as share a meal together.  Hope you will plan on coming out Wednesday at 6:00 PM.  Bring a covered food dish to share and the family.  Prayer meeting and youth class will follow the meal.

Jesus Loves Me–Senior Style

"Senior version of Jesus Loves Me"
Here is a new version just for us who have white hair or no hair at all. For us over middle age (or even those almost there) and all you others, check out this newest version of Jesus Loves Me.


JESUS LOVES ME
Jesus loves me, this I know,
Though my hair is white as snow
Though my sight is growing dim,
Still He bids me trust in Him.
(CHORUS)

YES, JESUS LOVES ME.. YES, JESUS LOVES ME..
YES, JESUS LOVES ME FOR THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO.
Though my steps are oh, so slow,
With my hand in His I'll go
On through life, let come what may,
He'll be there to lead the way.

(CHORUS)
When the nights are dark and long,
In my heart He puts a song.
Telling me in words so clear,
"Have no fear, for I am near."

(CHORUS)
When my work on earth is done,
And life's victories have been won.
He will take me home above,
Then I'll understand His love

(CHORUS)
I love Jesus, does He know?
Have I ever told Him so?
Jesus loves to hear me say,
That I love Him every day.

(CHORUS)

Prayer and Update

Today (Tuesday) Ryan W. will be going for an evaluation at the Mayo Clinic.  We have been praying diligently for Ryan to get a correct diagnosis and treatment for his liver issues.  Please keep Ryan and his family in prayer today as they travel and undergo this testing.

 

The funeral service for Janet W's mother will be Wednesday (tomorrow) at 11:00 AM at our church.  A lunch will be provided for the family following the service.  Church family is encouraged to bring a food dish to share for the lunch.  Small gestures such as this mean so much to the family as a reflection of God's love through us. 

Sunday School Training

Tuesday night, there will be an associational Sunday School teachers training.  All teachers or Sunday School workers are encouraged to attend.  This is a great opportunity to grow in knowledge so that our teaching will take on a greater quality and truly hit the mark - to teach and model God's Word.

 

The training will be be tomorrow (Tuesday) at First Baptist in Live Oak. Registration starts at 6:15p.m. w/ refreshments and the workshops are from 7:00 – 8:30p.m. If you have any questions please call the Associational office at 362-1110.

Prayer Requests

Please be in prayer for Janet W and her family as her mother passed away this weekend.  She had been in declining health for a long time and we are thankful that she is now at peace.  Your prayers and support are appreciated for the family during this difficult time.

 

In the midst of this time, Ryan W. finally got an appointment for a second opinion for his liver issues this week.  Please pray about this visit working out and for wisdom for the doctors to correctly pinpoint, diagnose and bring effectively treat Ryan.

 

Lisa L's sister took a fall this weekend and is at home recovering.  She is okay, but very sore and will need several days to recooperate.

 

Louise L. is recovering in Surrey Place from a broken bone in her back.  She is doing extremely well, but needs our prayers.

 

Elizabeth O.'s father is having continual struggles with his health.  Please keep him and his family in your prayers.

 

May the love of Christ be magnified in the midst of our church family as we pray for and love one another.

Walk/Run For Life

Are you participating in the upcoming Walk For Life?  It is on September 29 beginning at 9:00 AM and there is a 2 1/2 or 5 mile route to walk at your own pace.  For more information, please visit the web site at:

 

Pregnancy Care Center

 

This is a great opportunity to support a life changing/life giving ministry and enjoy some fellowship and exercise!  Hope to see you there!

The Pilot and the Priest

The Pilot and the Priest

A priest died and was waiting in line at the Pearly Gates. Ahead of him was a guy who was dressed in sunglasses, a loud shirt, leather jacket, and jeans.

Saint Peter addressed this cool guy, "Who are you, so that I may know whether or not to admit you to the Kingdom of Heaven?"

The guy replied, "I'm Jack, retired airline pilot from Houston."

Saint Peter consulted his list. He smiled and said to the pilot, "Take this silken robe and golden staff and enter the Kingdom." The pilot went into Heaven with his robe and staff.

Next, it was the priest's turn. He stood erect and boomed out, "I am Father Bob, pastor of Saint Mary's for the last 43 years."

Saint Peter consulted his list. He said to the priest, "Take this cotton robe and wooden staff and enter the Kingdom."

"Just a minute," said the good father. "That man was a pilot and he got a silken robe and golden staff and I get only cotton and wood. How can this be?"

"Up here - we go by results," said Saint Peter. "When you preached - people slept. When he flew, people prayed."

From shared email

Daily Bible Readings This Week

Our Sunday School lesson was on the topic of Holiness - it's not a suggestion, but a characteristic of Christ which should have root in every Christian's life.  We don't just 'become holy', but rather seek first the Lord and His righteousness.  A great place to begin is in His Word.

 

Here are the daily Bible readings for this week:

 

9/10 - Genesis 18:17-19

9/11 - Galatians 3:6-9

9/12 - Isaiah 61:1-3

9/13 - Hebrews 2:6-9

9/14 - I John 2:15-17

9/15 - II Corinthians 8:7-11

9/16 - I Peter 3:8-12

 

Remember the theme from Sunday School -
"God has called every Christian to a holy life.  There are no exceptions to this call."  Jerry Bridges

 

This week's lesson thought:  "Forsake sinful  behavior and grow as a believer." 

Go Team Antioch1

Our community Walk For Life will be held on September 29.  This walk which is a 2 1/2 or 5 mile walk at your own pace, benefits our local Pregnancy Care Center.

 

What a great opportunity for our church family to join together for a great cause!  Would you like to be  a part of "Team Antioch" where we enjoy walking, talking and supporting a great cause.

Worker's Survey

Each church body is similar to our physical body.  We are made up of different parts, which working together complete the body.

 

YOU are gifted and equipped to serve God.  He has placed within each of us gifts that can be used to edify one another and bring Him honor. 

 

Antioch has prepared a ministry survey that you can fill out to share areas of interest that you may be interested in.  This does not commit you to a certain job or task (unless you are interested in serving there), but allows our church leaders to see the many varied gifts of our members and be sensative to connecting those gifts with opportunites for service.

 

These surverys are available at church, please begin to pray about the ministries God has equipped you for and fill out a survey. 

Family Meal This Week!

Wednesday night we will resume our Family Meal.  There was a summer recess from it, but back to school time seemed like a perfect start to get back into a routine and making church attendance a part of it!

 

Hope you'll plan to bring a covered dish meal to share and enjoy some great fellowship around the table beginning at 6:00 PM.  Plan to stay afterward for prayer meeting and youth activities (we're working to get our children's and youth activities on the same night). 

September Daily Bible Readings

Did you know in the adult Sunday School study guide there is a list of daily Bible readings?    Make sure and get your book Sunday and follow along as we develop the habit of daily quiet time and growing in His grace and knowledge.

 

Here is this week's readings:

September 1 - Matthew 6:5-8

September 2 - I Corinthians 1:4-8

September 3 - Jeremiah 2:9-13

September 4 - II Timothy 2:20-23

September 5 - II Chronicles 34:1-7

September 6 - Philippians 1:9-18

September 7 - Psalm 138:1-8

September 8 - I Thessalonians 2:17-20

September 9 - John 21:15-17

Special Prayer Requests

Please be in prayer for some needs around our church family.

 

Louise L. took a fall and broke her back.  She is in the hospital now, please pray for her treatment and recovery.

Jeanelle C. spent some time in the hospital last week, but is now home and continues to need our prayer and support.

Ryan W. was at church Sunday, but he and his family need your continued prayers.  Please pray for him, his healing and for wisdom for the doctors who will be treating him.

Lori H. (Felton and Mary Lou's daughter) had hip surgery last week and is at home recovering.

 

 

Lori O. is a member from a while back, but she passed away last week.  There will be a memorial service at Antioch Thursday at 11:00 with a lunch being provided for the family.  You are encouraged to pray and to show your love and support to her family during this difficult time.  May we as a church body, reach out to them and show them the love of Jesus.  Donations of food will be needed, to be at the church Thursday morning.  Thank you for caring and sharing to meet the needs of others.

New Sunday School Year Begins Sunday!

Each Septmber a new year in our Sunday School department begins!  Children who have advanced a grade in school are promoted to the appropriate Sunday School grade.  This first day of the new class is always an exciting time! 

 

This is also a great time for our families to recommit to Sunday School attendance.  Nothing works to help us grow in Christ like dilgently and purposefully coming to God's house to learn His Word and fellowship with other believers.  Sunday School attendance shows dedication, commtitmenet and diligence in our Christian walk.  When our families are faithfully coming to Sunday School, they are strengthened and in turn our church is strengthened.  Will you commit grow in the Lord this new year?

 

The next few week's lessons include:

 

• Tell others about the hope you have as a Christian. (Sept 2)
• Demonstrate holiness in your life. (Sept 9)
• Forsake sinful behavior and grow as a believer. (Sept 16)

"God has called every Christian to a holy life.  There are no exceptions to this call."

Jerry Bridges

 

 

New Game In Town

The Game Show Network debuted a new game show Thursday night (Aug. 23) -- "The American Bible Challenge," hosted by Jeff Foxworthy. Did you tune in?

The show features three teams of three contestants, each playing for $20,000 for a charity. The rounds featured categories like What Do You Noah 'Bout the Ark? and postings from various Biblical characters' "Faithbook" pages.

The winning round is titled The Final Revelation and is a speed round with tough questions, so the two teams that make it that far get to do a quick backstage Bible study before they take on the speed round. Plus, there's an in-hour choir that sings gospel songs going into and out of commercial breaks.

 

How refreshing to see a tv show with biblical content!  Hope you'll tune in and take the Bible Challenge!

What Does It Mean To Be a Follower of Jesus?

Our message last week was titled "What Does It Mean To Be a Follower of Jesus?" 

This was based on the Beatitudes given by Jesus in Matthew 5:1-6:

And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him.   Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn,
For they shall be comforted.
 Blessed are the meek,
For they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

 

Jesus declared that people who exhibit particular characteristics are divinely blessed. Not that people should strive to attain these characteristics so they could earn the right to tap into God's blessings.  But that these characteristics identify people who by God's grace are citizens of the kingdom of heaven. This does not imply they are perfect, but indicates a following of the Lord and to actively cultivate those characteristics He planted in us. 

 

The Beatitudes are eight qualities or characteristics that define one group - those following the Lord.  The first four reflect inner attitudes:

 

Poor in Spirit:  This is the opposite of arrogance and self sufficiency.  When we realize how vast our spiritual need is and we have nothing to offer God, we are ready to repent and receive His gracious gift of salvation.  Poverty in spirit is the prelude to riches of salvation. Being poor in spirit opens the door to God's grace . 

 

Those Who Mourn:  This occurs when we understand our sinful condition and are truly sorry for our sinful state.  We mourn when we not just know, but repent.  When we're sorry enough about our sin to quit sinning.

 

Meek:  Meekness is not weakness.  This attitude of gentleness puts the focus on others rather than self.  This is not our natural tendency and can be a challenge.  Gentleness stems from an awareness of our own failures and limitations and allows us to deal kindly with others. 

 

Hunger and Thirst For Righteousness:  This is the inner desire to make right choices, say right words and do right actions which is part of God's work in us to make us more like Him.  As we walk faithfully with Him, He instills in us more purpose and power to please Him. 

 

The Beatitudes are more than a passage of Scripture to memorize.  They are qualities to seek after and develop in our Christian walk which sets us apart and identifies us with Christ. 

The Family Challenge

The real question is: Will you commit to passing your faith on to your kids? It doesn't happen automatically. Just living in your home doesn't mean your kids are catching your faith.

 

Although you may send your kids to a Christian School, or take them to Sunday School or other church activities, God designed the family to be the place where spiritual values are passed on to kids. You are the primary spiritual trainer of your child.

 

The Family Challenge is part of a global initiative to motivate and train parents to be the primary spiritual trainers of their own children. Being spiritual leaders is not optional. It’s the way God designed that his values be passed on to the next generation.

 

4/14 Family Challenge is a website filled with resources and a challenge to families to a challenge to put teaching faith and values to our children. 

 

Using, as the model, Deuteronomy 6. The whole chapter is worth reading but three things together can make spiritual training happen in your home:

 

1. Build Relationship
2. Share Scripture
3. Practice Faith

 

If you are interested in a stronger family and following His commands to teach and train our children in His Ways, visit 4/14 Family Challenge.