The early church was a community of faith. We read in Acts 2:42, “And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.” The word translated as “fellowship” in this verse is the Greek word koinonia, which comes from the root word koinos, meaning “common.” The use of this word bears witness to the common life of the early church. It is because of our union in Christ that we share together not only our inheritance as children of God, but also our fellowship with one another as brothers and sisters in the family of God.
It is easy for us to read this verse and assume that the community life of these earliest followers of Christ was ideal, that they had no problems and there was no conflict. Many people suppose that church life in the First Century was a purer reflection of the community Christ intended, that it was unblemished by sin. However, just three chapters later in the book of Acts we read of Ananias and Sapphira who were struck down by God for their life of deception. In addition, in the letters of Paul we read time and again of divisions, dissension, petty jealousies, and arguments. They had just as many problems back then as we do now – maybe more!
Community life in the church will always be flawed to some degree because we are a fellowship that is made up of sinners who are saved by grace. We are a spiritual hospital for people trying to get well, not a museum for saints who have it all together. As a result, we will always struggle in building authentic community. However, the amazing miracle is that by the power of God’s Holy Spirit, the Lord can take our feeble attempts to be the people of God and transform our fellowship into a small expression of the kingdom of God here on earth. Taking people for who they are and accepting the church for what it is, warts and all, is the first step in seeing this transformation.
Sid Langrall’s Birthday Celebration
Wish List
We have several items we would like add to our church facility. If you are interested in helping with these items, any gift would be greatly appreciated!
A communion table; a baptismal font; a pulpit
Please contact Richard Jessee (our administrative assistant) by calling the church office on Tuesday or Thursday mornings if you can help with a donation: (540) 221-4370.
Outdoor Workday
We will be gathering from 9:00 a.m. to Noon on Saturday, May 29th to spruce up the outside of our building, including applying mulch. Please mark your calendars and come out to help!
Caring Calls
We care about you!! If you have NOT been receiving caring calls from members of our team but would like to receive a call every two weeks, OR if you have been receiving caring calls but would prefer not to be included on our calling list, please contact Tim Stewart (tim.stewart30@gmail.com). Thanks so much!
Worship CDs
My Offering is a CD with beautiful piano hymns. This CD is available Sunday mornings and can be yours for a contribution to our building fund. We are grateful to Loretta Watkins for recording this music and making these CDs available
Sunday Worship
Pastor Glen’s message this Sunday is “A Bag of Grapes” based upon Hebrews 10:24-25. Please read this text in preparation for worship!
An offering plate is available when you enter the sanctuary. Additionally, online giving opportunities are available on the website.
Nursery
We are pleased to offer a nursery for children through pre-school. The nursery is in the Sunday school area, and there is a check-in area at the door of the nursery.
May Birthdays
Loretta Watkins (5/12); Sid Langrall and Charlotte Severs (5/15); Sherry Holder (5/20); Paul Childers (5/20); Larry Roberts (5/25)