Dear First Pres,
 
     I was so encouraged by what I experienced in my own Community Group and heard from other Community Group leaders this week.  Nearly 200 of you ventured out to be with your church neighbors for encouragement, fun, and prayer.  I was especially pumped to know that some of our newcomers found their way to their appropriate Community Group. This, of course, is one of the hoped for outcomes of this new initiative. One of my favorite moments of the night was circling up with a handful of other folks and praying for our part of the city (our schools, our neighbors, our families, etc.) while the kids ran between prayer groups. I was deeply grateful to hear others in my group ask God to help them be a witness for the Gospel in their neighborhoods. It was a great start to this new phase of Community Groups. Praise God!

       I was also encouraged this past week by our presbytery. Remember, the presbytery is the body of EPC churches in our Pacific region. God is doing some wonderful things in our presbytery, but there are a few churches I want to particularly draw your attention to for prayer.  

  • Woodlake Presbyterian Church (my home church) is preparing for a sudden transition. Owen Cole, the youngest son of Pastor Joe Cole is very ill, and the doctors are struggling to fully understand the reason for his illness. After a visit with the top pediatric allergy specialist in California, the family was told they need to move as soon as possible to a clean air environment that is near an outstanding Children's hospital. Unfortunately, Woodlake doesn't fit that description. So, the Coles are leaving after 2 short years as Woodlake's pastor. Please pray for the Cole family and the Woodlake church. Pastor Lana is preaching there this weekend; please pray that the Lord gives her an encouraging word for them.

  • Grace Community EPC in Weed, California is in need of our prayer as well. In the recent fire that ripped through the heart of Weed, Grace Community's entire campus was burned to the ground; they have no more building. Plus, the church is currently without a pastor. Still, they are seeking to minister to their city. Please be praying that God brings comfort and peace. Please also pray that God gives them wisdom to know how share Christ's love with their community. You'll be glad to know that some of our leaders are investigating how we might partner with other churches in our presbytery to encourage Grace Community Church.

     Jesus told the disciples that He would build His Church, and that even the Gates of Hades wouldn't be able to prevail against it. I'm encouraged today by that promise. It reminds me that even in the midst of great challenges faced by local churches, Christ is at work through the Spirit to build the Church and advance His Kingdom. I encourage you, as you pray for these churches, to ask God also to align your life with His purposes today. Surely, He is at work in you.

      Philippians 2:12b-13 Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

 

Blessings,