Hi Fam,
First let me just say Sunday was…WOW! So good. So rich. So powerful. And Evans to Betsy…Evan Schmidt. Priceless. (You had to be there). We gave out every “Give Thanksgiving” bag in 20 seconds. Those are due back by this Sunday the 23rd.
Huge thank you to Spencer McElhannon who has served The River very faithfully as an elder. He has challenged and encouraged us, as elders, taught Bible study (will keep teaching, btw), covered you in prayer, been a wise and clarion voice on many occasions, coached and counseled many of us, hosted or led a LifeGroup for years, set the pace for walking with Christ daily, and championed his marriage to Katia as an example to us all. What a great friend and brother he is to me and many of you. Thank you Spencer.
And Katia, thank you for allowing him space to do all of that, and make your own sacrifices and profound contributions along the way. You two are awesome TWOgether. Well done. I love you, both.
We will install a new elder, Danny Watson, this Sunday!!
We also celebrated some AMAZING baptisms! Lorena, you are a strong and courageous wife and mother…and child of God! Keep going. And Samuel, you my little brother in Christ, will be a leader of leaders. Your insight and kindness will win and influence many others on your journey. Keep your eyes on Jesus!
AND MORE baptisms this Sunday! Let’s GOOO!
A quick reminder from Gratitude/Psalm 103 sermon that God: (Psalm 103:4) “who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy”
God not only forgave you; He lifted you out of that pit. (See also 1 John 1:9) Gratitude says: “I remember where I was when God found me.” You were made to worship Him. He didn’t just clean you up…He CROWNED you
with… (1 Peter 1:4) an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you. Walk in THAT today!
Whew! Thank you Heavenly Father!
Okay, BE SURE to see the calendar below for holidays schedule changes, and I’ll see you tonight, in Post on Friday, or on Sunday!
I’m grateful for and love you, church!
Pastor Brent