We read in Colossians 2:1-2, “For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ . . .” Friends, as members of the body of Christ, we are to be “knit together in love.” That means we are to be united with one another within the Body!
Being “knit together in love” is a medical metaphor. As members of the body of Christ, we are not to be “out of joint” with anyone. Have you ever been “out of joint” with someone in the church? It is impossible to fulfill our responsibilities as Christians unless we are living in community with one another. We cannot do it alone. We cannot truly be Christians in isolation! You and I need one another!
Do you know of anyone who seems a bit low today? If so, do what it takes to encourage him or her. Are you out of sync with someone in the church? Is there anyone you have been avoiding because of some conflict or hurt feelings? I encourage you to meet face-to-face and make things right.
John Gottman, an emeritus professor of psychology at the University of Washington and well-known researcher regarding marriage stability commented: “Shared meaning doesn’t mean couples agree word-for-word on a philosophy of life. It means they learn to mesh their lives. They develop a culture that incorporates their dreams and goals and that helps them grow together. They talk openly about their convictions and search for common ground on fundamental values.”
These same principles can be applied to the body of believers, who are choosing to be knit together in love. May we, as part of the Body of Christ, commit to being knit together in love!!
Worship
Pastor Glen’s sermon this Sunday is: “Unity: Gift of Grace,” based on Psalm 133. Please read this text before worship.
Adult Sunday School
Our Adult Sunday school class will meet this Sunday at 9:30 a.m. in the large Sunday school room. Please join Janet Coiner and others for a wonderful time around God’s Word!! We will continue our study of the Gospel of John. This Sunday we will study John 13: Jesus’s Service and Love!! Please bring your Bible!
Called Congregational Meeting
The Session has called a congregational meeting immediately after worship on Sunday, September 3rd for the purpose of adjusting Pastor Glen’s Terms of Call, electing a Pastor Search Committee, and sharing some updates on our ministry! Please plan to attend!!
Tithes and Offerings
An offering box is available when you enter or exit the sanctuary. Additionally, online giving opportunities are available on the website.
July Financial Report
Tithes/Offerings: Monthly: $32,275.25 YTD: $131,416.29
Expenses: Monthly: $16,303.57 YTD: $119,947.94
Capital Campaign: $1,080.00 YTD: $6,653.00
Designated Giving: $0. YTD: $3,225.00
Church Sign Donations: Monthly: $0. YTD: $2,700.00
Men’s Bible Study
The last summer Men’s Bible Study will be on Tuesday (August 29th) at Panera Bread (Community Room), beginning at 7:00 a.m. We will conclude our “Drive Down Rt. 66” with the Prophet Malachi! ALL MEN ARE WELCOME!!
Annual Worship Service and Church Picnic
Please mark your calendars now for our annual ALL CHURCH worship service and picnic on Sunday, September 10th at the Lake Forest Lodge (near Sherando Lake).
Exploring Hope Class
Come to our next Exploring Hope Class! Exploring Hope is a gathering designed to communicate a brief overview of what is important to us here at Hope, including our history, what we believe, our values, our focus, our direction, and how to get connected. Our next Exploring Hope Class will be Sunday, September 17th, after worship. The two-hour class will include lunch in our main Sunday school room. If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Pastor Glen.
Prayer Concerns and Praise Reports
If you have any concerns you would like to add to the Prayer Concerns and Praise Reports list or give an update, PLEASE contact our prayer coordinator, Janet Coiner (540.447.0918) by THURSDAY at NOON!! Thanks so much!!
Driver Assistance
If you or someone in our congregation needs a ride to a doctor’s appointment or other appointments, please call Tom Reider (540.649.5162). He has agreed to coordinate rides. He has a list of those who have volunteered to give those rides. We are grateful for this important ministry!!
Mission Corner
We will be serving a meal for Love INC on September 12th. Mark your calendars now to help with this wonderful opportunity to serve those individuals and families wanting to turn their lives around! Please sign up to serve or provide cookies or financial support at the Table in the Welcome Center!
We continue to collect “Hope Blessings” donations every three months for Love INC. From July 1 to September 30, we are collecting various paper products: paper towels, tissues, napkins, and toilet paper. May we be a blessing to those families in need! We are grateful for our partnership with Love INC!
Missions Team is active keeping in touch with our missionaries and other ministries. Please keep updated! You can visit our website and go to the Outreach page
August Birthdays
Janet Land (8/27); Kitty Coffey (8/28); Dianne Stewart (8/31)