07/08/04 Dear Ones – I am glad to report that your pastor is back from Montreat and back from General Assembly, and is by today feeling a bit more like myself! Both of these events are inspiring to me, but the Assembly is a lot of work for me and other Clerks who serve as parliamentarians (without vote!). But now I am back for awhile, and it is always good to come back home. Some news from the pews for these days – as well as people and situations for our prayers: First some good news: Aaron Nathanson, a high school senior and active member of Beulah and the High School Youth Group received his Eagle Scout Award this past Tuesday from Troop 77 (the troop we sponsor here at Beulah). Quite a number of the Beulah family were present, youth and adults. Aaron is often recognized by his elaborate hair styles – and his willingness to work and serve in response to his faith in Christ and his training as a Boy Scout. Only 2 out of every 100 Boy Scouts achieve the rank of Eagle Scout, so as a church family we can all be proud of Aaron. Attached is a picture of Aaron, his sister Ashley Burdick, Grandmother Dorothea and Mother Pam. When you see Aaron, please extend him a word of congratulations on this accomplishment. I talked with Jeannie Koerber today; she is having good days and bad days, good nights and bad nights. The heart doctor wants her up and about to regain her strength and help her heart; the back doctor wants her off her feet to keep her herniated disk from getting work, so Jeannie feels that she is literally “between a rock and a hard place.” She sees several of her doctors next week; keep the prayers coming. Kris Bradley is recovering very well from her semi-emergency gall bladder surgery, but has also this week had to face the loss of two pets, a dog and cat that have been with her for many years. They were both very old and in pain, and had to be put down. Losing a pet is a real loss, as many of you know, and it is hard on the family. Some might look down on such grief, thinking, “It’s just an animal.” But animals are a part of God’s good creation, and when we human beings get close to these animal beings, the loss of them takes a toll on us. My father’s dog Trouble is also getting quite old and immobile these days. Karen James still has some good days and some bad days – recovering from some trouble with her kidneys and some mix up in her medication. She hopes to be in worship this Sunday. Susan Rock got a word of good news from her doctor, who remains confident that her MS diagnosis is preliminary, and either way it is a relatively mild case. She will have some further tests next week. Lorna Pierce has had some allergy reactions, so in her words, her day yesterday was “scratch, scratch, scratch.” Jason Mohn continues his recovery from knee surgery – working with crutches (not so fun, especially in the summer months), but given time he should be fine. Martha Stepro, who was able to be in worship last Sunday, is also doing well. She had a near fall earlier this week (so everyone, watch your step) causing her knee to swell a bit, but with some ice and rest she is better today. Jim Barbour is back to work on a limited basis, but looks much better than the last time I saw him. We did receive word on Monday that Carrol Treese’s mother, Mrs. Tyler, died on Monday. Carrol traveled to Alabama on Monday to be there for calling hours and funeral arrangements. She may be returning home on Friday (tomorrow). Please keep Carrol in your prayers – which she appreciates so much. If you want to send her a note, send it to 4300 Norbrook Drive, Apt 209 40218. Ruth Parrish continues her struggles as well, as does Neva Poole. I hope to see both these ladies early next week. Deb Sexton is back to work part time, but may be facing another surgery on her hand. Lee Allen Priest, his arm / wrist is recovering nicely, and he was in the office Tuesday to drop of his envelope – what a faithful family. Which reminds me – here is an announcement in the bulletin for this Sunday and for some weeks to come: Our Church Treasurer, Jack Laing, reports that our General Fund is behind some $8,400 in the month of June. Typically we do run a bit “tight” in the summer months, but this is tighter than usual. Please make every effort to maintain your pledged giving when you are planning vacations this summer, and let us all do our part to show our thankfulness to God by our regular and disciplined giving, in support of our mission and ministry. Thank you. The theme of our recent General Assembly, as well as the theme of the 24th General Council of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches which will meet later this month is Accra, Ghana (and remember, when you hear the word “Reformed,” think “Presbyterian” – we come out of the larger “reformed” tradition) – the theme is taken from John 10:10 - “that all may have life in fullness.” Many translations use the word “abundance” rather than “fullness,” but the choice of translation was intentional. The word abundance, especially in other nations in Africa, suggests “western affluence” and the “abundance” of possessions and material things. This is not what Jesus meant. “Fullness” of life means more like the full blessing and presence of the Spirit in our lives and in our churches, fullness of life means a meaningful and purpose-filled life in Jesus Christ – a life that many do not know. Fullness of life, as Moses told the people of Israel (Deut. 30:15-20) means to “choose life, so that you and your descendants might live.” Moses encouraged the people to not take the easy path, compromising with the unjust and idolatrous ways of others with whom they lived. In these days may we all know the fullness of life that is ours in Jesus Christ, and may we share that life with others around us. Before Sunday, if you can, find your Bible and read Amos 5:14-15, 21-24, and Luke 10: 25-37, and ponder the sermon theme, “What’s Mine Is Yours.” Blessings on you and yours these days, and I remain, Yours in Christ, Ken H.
|